Flavensomycin

Flavensomycin

Flavensomycin is a polyketide antibiotic produced by the bacterium Streptomyces flavens. It is known for its potent antibacterial activity against a wide range of Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).

Structure and Biosynthesis

Flavensomycin is a complex macrolide antibiotic, characterized by a large macrocyclic lactone ring. The biosynthesis of flavensomycin involves a series of enzymatic reactions catalyzed by polyketide synthase (PKS) enzymes. The PKS gene cluster responsible for flavensomycin biosynthesis has been identified in Streptomyces flavens.

Mechanism of Action

Flavensomycin exerts its antibacterial activity by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. It binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing the formation of the peptidyl transferase complex and thereby blocking the elongation of the peptide chain.

Clinical Use and Resistance

While flavensomycin shows potent antibacterial activity in vitro, its clinical use has been limited due to its poor bioavailability and potential for toxicity. However, it remains a valuable tool for studying the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. Resistance to flavensomycin is typically mediated by mutations in the 50S ribosomal subunit, which prevent the antibiotic from binding effectively.

See Also

• Polyketide
• Antibiotic resistance
• Streptomyces

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