One significant challenge is the emergence of antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve mechanisms to evade the catalytic actions of antibiotics. Many resistant bacteria produce [beta-lactamases](), enzymes that hydrolyze the beta-lactam ring of antibiotics, rendering them ineffective. Overcoming this resistance often requires the development of new catalysts or inhibitor molecules that can block these resistance enzymes. Research is ongoing to design [beta-lactamase inhibitors]() that can be co-administered with antibiotics to restore their efficacy.
