Actaplanin

Actaplanin

Actaplanin is a glycopeptide antibiotic that is derived from Actinoplanes missouriensis. It is similar in structure and function to the more commonly known vancomycin, and is used in the treatment of Gram-positive bacteria infections.

History

Actaplanin was first isolated in 1981 from Actinoplanes missouriensis, a species of bacteria found in soil. The discovery of actaplanin was significant as it provided a new option for the treatment of infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, particularly those that are resistant to other antibiotics.

Structure and Mechanism of Action

Actaplanin is a glycopeptide antibiotic, a class of antibiotics that inhibit the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It does this by binding to the D-alanyl-D-alanine terminus of the cell wall precursor, preventing the addition of new units to the cell wall and thus inhibiting bacterial growth.

Clinical Use

Actaplanin is used in the treatment of serious infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Enterococcus species. It is particularly useful in cases where the bacteria are resistant to other antibiotics.

Side Effects and Precautions

As with all antibiotics, actaplanin can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, rash, and fever. In rare cases, it can cause ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. It should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.

See Also

• Glycopeptide antibiotics
• Vancomycin
• Daptomycin
• Teicoplanin

References

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