Question

a sensitive s. aureus bacterium acquires a new gene that allows it to resist the effects of beta-lactam antibiotics. what might the protein encoded by that gene do?
produce a toxin
digest beta-lactam antibiotics
synthesize beta-lactam antibiotics
enhance colonization of human skin
enhance entry into the bloodstream

Explanation:

Beta-lactam antibiotics target bacterial cell wall synthesis. Resistance often involves enzymes (e.g., beta-lactamases) encoded by acquired genes that break down (digest) the beta-lactam structure, inactivating the antibiotic. Other options are unrelated to direct resistance against beta-lactams: toxin production, antibiotic synthesis, colonization enhancement, and bloodstream entry do not counteract the antibiotic's effect.

Answer:

digest beta-lactam antibiotics