[Enhancement of salinomycin production and its activity optimization - A review]

Salinomycin is a monocarboxylic acid polyether antibiotics produced by Streptomyces albus. It has strong inhibiting and killing activity against most gram-positive bacteria and various coccidiums with low adverse impact on environment. In addition, salinomycin can specifically inhibit the growth of a variety of cancer cells and cancer stem cells via targeting to multiple sites, and is a promising anti-tumor drug candidate. To obtain high yield salinomycinproducing strain, conventional mutation techniques and modern molecular genetic methods have been used. Meanwhile, bioactivity and selectivity of salinomycin could be improved by modifying the chemical structure and changing drug delivery methods. Here, we summarize the key strategies for enhancing salinomycin production and review the progresses in optimizing its drug activity and targeting properties. The future research focus is also addressed.