Which mode of action of antibiotics inhibits the synthesis of metabolites?

The correct answer is focused on the inhibition of metabolic pathways. This mode of action specifically targets and interferes with the metabolic processes that bacteria use to synthesize essential compounds, such as vitamins and amino acids. Antibiotics that function in this way often disrupt enzyme activity or act as competitive inhibitors in biochemical pathways, which ultimately hampers the growth and replication of bacterial cells. An example of this type of antibiotic is sulfonamides, which interfere with the synthesis of folic acid, a vital metabolite for bacteria.

In contrast, the other modes of action are geared towards different cellular components. The inhibition of cell wall synthesis affects the structural integrity of the bacterial cell, leading to lysis. The inhibition of protein synthesis disrupts the production of proteins necessary for various cellular functions and reproduction. Likewise, the inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis targets the DNA or RNA replication and transcription processes, affecting the overall ability of bacteria to replicate and function. Each of these mechanisms focuses on distinct vital functions rather than the broader metabolic pathways that the correct choice addresses.