Which class of antibiotics interferes with bacterial protein synthesis at the 30S ribosomal subunit?

Tetracyclines are a class of antibiotics that specifically target the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis. By binding to this ribosomal subunit, tetracyclines effectively prevent the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the mRNA-ribosome complex. This action disrupts the synthesis of proteins, which is essential for bacterial growth and reproduction, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.

In contrast, cephalosporins act by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, sulfonamides target folate synthesis pathways, and fluoroquinolones interfere with bacterial DNA replication and transcription mechanisms. Each of these classes has a different mechanism and site of action, demonstrating the importance of understanding how various antibiotics function to combat bacterial infections effectively.