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Chemotherapeutic Potential of Monensin as an Anti-microbial Agent

Vinoth Rajendran1, Hema Saranya Ilamathi1,2,3, Suparna Dutt4

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, New Delhi 110021, India.

Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry
|December 1, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Monensin, an ionophore antibiotic, shows broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against human pathogens. Further research is recommended for its clinical use as a safe and effective therapeutic agent.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Monensin is a naturally occurring ionophore produced by Streptomyces spp.
  • It functions by disrupting ionic gradients across cell membranes.
  • Currently approved as a veterinary antibiotic for coccidiosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the therapeutic potential of monensin.
  • To explore its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against human pathogens.
  • To assess its efficacy against drug-sensitive and resistant strains.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of monensin's antimicrobial properties.
  • Analysis of its mechanism of action.
  • Evaluation of its selective toxicity.

Main Results:

  • Monensin exhibits broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
  • It is effective against both drug-sensitive and drug-resistant strains.
  • Monensin demonstrates selective toxicity, with negligible effects on mammalian cells.

Conclusions:

  • Monensin possesses significant therapeutic potential as a novel antimicrobial agent.
  • Its broad-spectrum activity and safety profile warrant further clinical investigation.
  • Monensin could be a valuable addition to the antimicrobial armamentarium.
Keywords:
Anti-microbialChemotherapyDrug-resistantIonophoresMonensinPathogens.

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