Ambobactin

Ambobactin

Ambobactin is a siderophore produced by certain bacteria to scavenge iron from the environment. It is a low-molecular-weight compound that has a high affinity for iron, and is produced by bacteria when iron is scarce in the environment.

Structure and Synthesis

Ambobactin is a cyclic tripeptide that contains three amino acids: serine, glycine, and ornithine. The molecule also contains a hydroxamate group, which is responsible for its high affinity for iron. The synthesis of ambobactin is carried out by a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions in the bacterial cell.

Function

The primary function of ambobactin is to bind iron in the environment and transport it back to the bacterial cell. Once inside the cell, the iron is released and used in various metabolic processes. The ability to produce siderophores like ambobactin is a key factor in the survival and virulence of many bacteria.

Role in Disease

Some pathogenic bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, produce ambobactin as a means of acquiring iron in the host body. This can contribute to the pathogenicity of these bacteria and their ability to cause disease.

Potential Therapeutic Uses

Due to its role in bacterial iron acquisition, ambobactin has been studied as a potential target for antibacterial therapy. Inhibiting the production or function of ambobactin could potentially starve bacteria of iron, inhibiting their growth and virulence.

See Also

• Siderophore
• Iron acquisition
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• Staphylococcus aureus

Ambobactin Resources
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