Beta-lactams are a class of antibiotics that contain a specific chemical structure known as the beta-lactam ring. This structure is crucial for their ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of their cell walls. Common examples of beta-lactams include penicillin, amoxicillin, and cephalosporins. These antibiotics are effective against a wide range of bacterial infections, making them one of the most commonly prescribed medications. However, some bacteria have developed resistance to beta-lactams, leading to the need for alternative treatments and ongoing research in the field of antibiotic resistance.