Which of the following is an example of an aminoglycoside antimicrobial?

Gentamicin is the correct choice because it is a member of the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics. Aminoglycosides are characterized by their ability to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, leading to misreading of the genetic code and ultimately resulting in bacterial cell death. Gentamicin is commonly used to treat serious infections caused by aerobic gram-negative bacteria and is particularly effective in cases of sepsis or in patients with compromised immune systems.

In contrast, ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone, which works through a different mechanism that involves inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, disrupting DNA replication. Amoxicillin, categorized as a penicillin, functions by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis. Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic that also targets bacterial cell wall synthesis but is known for its effectiveness against gram-positive bacteria. Each of these alternatives has distinct mechanisms of action and therapeutic uses, differentiating them from aminoglycosides like gentamicin.