Kitz-Wilson Mechanisms of Action of Neostigmine and Penicillin

Abstract

The molecular mechanism of penicillin action is closely analogous to that of neostigmine. Both drugs react covalently with the active-site serine of their target enzymes. In both cases, the susceptible enzymes self-catalyze their inactivation by their respective drugs. Kinetic analysis of cholinesterase by Richard J. Kitz and Irwin B. Wilson helped to establish that concept. Neostigmine and penicillin are kindred examples of mechanism-based enzyme inhibition, a generally important phenomenon in pharmacology and physiology.