Cefdinir (CAS 91832-40-5)

Cefdinir, cataloged under CAS number 91832-40-5, is a third-generation cephalosporin, notable for its broad spectrum of activity and enhanced stability against β-lactamase enzymes compared to earlier cephalosporins. Structurally, cefdinir contains a β-lactam ring, which is crucial for its antibacterial activity, and a side chain that increases its resistance to degradation by β-lactamase enzymes. The primary mechanism by which cefdinir functions involves the inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis. It achieves this by binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) within the bacterial cell wall. This binding interferes with the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis, which is essential for cell wall strength and integrity. As a result, the disrupted cell wall synthesis leads to bacterial cell lysis and death. In research settings, cefdinir has been employed to study the kinetics of bacterial cell wall synthesis and degradation, particularly focusing on the action of PBPs and the resistance mechanisms developed by bacteria against cephalosporins. Furthermore, investigations involving cefdinir have contributed to a deeper understanding of the molecular interactions between cephalosporins and PBPs, providing insights that are vital for the development of new antibacterial agents with improved efficacy and stability. These studies are instrumental in advancing the field of bacterial resistance and adaptation, particularly in understanding how cephalosporins can be modified to overcome resistance.