What does selective toxicity refer to in antimicrobial agents?

Selective toxicity refers to the unique ability of antimicrobial agents to specifically target and kill microbial cells while leaving host cells unharmed. This concept is essential in the development and use of antibiotics because it allows for the treatment of infections without causing significant damage to the patient's own cells. The design of antimicrobial drugs typically focuses on exploiting differences in cellular structure and metabolism between microbes and their hosts. For instance, many antibiotics target bacterial cell walls or protein synthesis, processes which are not present in human cells. This selectivity minimizes side effects and maximizes therapeutic efficacy, making the treatment more manageable and effective for patients.