What is the primary function of isoniazid (INH) in tuberculosis treatment?

Isoniazid (INH) primarily functions by inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acids, which are essential components of the bacterial cell wall in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. Mycolic acids play a critical role in the structural integrity and physiology of the bacteria. By targeting this biosynthetic pathway, isoniazid effectively disrupts the cell wall formation, leading to cell death and ultimately aiding in the treatment of tuberculosis.

The significance of this mechanism lies in its specificity; by focusing on mycolic acid synthesis, isoniazid selectively targets the pathogen without impacting human cells, which do not produce mycolic acids. This targeted approach helps minimize potential side effects and makes isoniazid an effective antibiotic for tuberculosis treatment.