Anthracimycin

A polyketide antibiotic with activity against Gram-positive bacteria

Anthracimycin is a polyketide antibiotic that was first isolated from a marine-derived bacterium, Streptomyces species, collected from the sediments off the coast of California. It exhibits potent activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax.

Discovery and Isolation

Anthracimycin was discovered in 2013 by a team of researchers who were investigating marine microorganisms for novel bioactive compounds. The bacterium from which anthracimycin was isolated was identified as a new species of Streptomyces. The compound was named for its activity against Bacillus anthracis.

Chemical Structure

Chemical structure of Anthracimycin

Anthracimycin is a 14-membered macrolide with a unique carbon skeleton. Its structure includes a decalin moiety, which is a bicyclic system consisting of two fused cyclohexane rings. The presence of this decalin structure is crucial for its biological activity.

Biosynthesis

Biosynthetic pathway of Anthracimycin

The biosynthesis of anthracimycin involves a polyketide synthase (PKS) pathway. The PKS enzymes catalyze the formation of the polyketide chain, which is then cyclized and modified to form the final macrolide structure. The biosynthetic gene cluster responsible for anthracimycin production has been identified and characterized, providing insights into the enzymatic steps involved in its assembly.

Mechanism of Action

Anthracimycin exerts its antibacterial effects by inhibiting bacterial RNA polymerase, thereby preventing the transcription of essential genes required for bacterial growth and survival. This mechanism is similar to that of other macrolide antibiotics, although anthracimycin's unique structure may confer additional properties that enhance its activity against certain bacterial strains.

Clinical Potential

Due to its potent activity against Bacillus anthracis and other Gram-positive pathogens, anthracimycin is considered a promising candidate for the development of new antibiotics, particularly in the context of bioterrorism threats and antibiotic resistance. However, further studies are needed to evaluate its safety, efficacy, and potential for clinical use.

Related Pages

• Antibiotic
• Macrolide
• Polyketide
• Streptomyces
• Bacillus anthracis

Decalin formation in Anthracimycin