Disruption of the Bacterial Protease ClpP (IMAGE) Technical University of Munich (TUM) Caption Some smaller molecules (such as the Lactone in the middle) are able to destruct the arrangement of the amino acids required for the cohesion of the subunits of the bacterial protease ClpP. As a result the protease breaks into two parts, which are completely inactive. This approach massively disturbs the metabolism of the bacterium, giving the immune system time to react. And, because the bacterium isn't killed, the development of new resistances can be avoided. Credit Malte Gersch / TU Muenchen Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.