ponB

ponB, or Penicillin-binding protein 1B (PBP1B), is a crucial bifunctional enzyme in bacteria with both transglycosylase and transpeptidase activities. PBP1B is essential for the elongation and cross-linking of the peptidoglycan cell wall, contributing significantly to bacterial growth and morphology. It is a major target for β-lactam antibiotics, which inhibit its transpeptidase activity, leading to compromised cell wall integrity and cell death.