Definition of "lactamases" [lactamases]

• Plural form of lactamase. (noun)

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• "If the rapid evolution of the class A extended-spectrum β-lactamases is typical, then we should indeed be concerned about the evolution of metallo-β-lactamases in response to the clinical use of imipenem and other carbapenems."
• "Antibiotics such as penicillin are called, collectively, beta-lactams, and enzymes that break down these antibiotics and confer drug resistance are called beta-lactamases, which is why the term beta-lactamase may pop up in this blog entry from time to time."
• "In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, secondary beta-lactamases with extended substrate specificity can be responsible for acquired resistance to the most powerful antipseudomonal beta-lactams, such as expanded-spectrum cephalosporins and carbapenems."