Mitochondrial translational inhibitors in the pharmacopeia

►Bacteria and mitochondria share similar genetic origins and the translation machinery in bacteria is a target for antibiotic effect. ►One-half antibiotic drug classes target the mitochondrial translation machinery and these targeting ribosomal function may cause signs of mitochondrial dysfunction. ►Understanding the similarity between bacterial and mitochondrial translation will assist in recognition of antibiotic toxicity. ►Other classes of drugs may also inhibit mitochondrial translation.