Fosmidomycin

Fosmidomycin

Fosmidomycin is a phosphonic acid-containing antibiotic that is primarily used in the treatment of malaria. It was first isolated from the bacterium Streptomyces lavendulae in 1973. Fosmidomycin works by inhibiting the enzyme 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR), which is essential for the synthesis of isoprenoids in the apicoplast of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum.

Mechanism of Action

Fosmidomycin inhibits the enzyme DXR, which is involved in the non-mevalonate pathway of isoprenoid biosynthesis. Isoprenoids are vital components of several cellular processes, including cell membrane maintenance, protein modification, and synthesis of quinones and cytochromes. By inhibiting DXR, fosmidomycin disrupts these processes, leading to the death of the malaria parasite.

Clinical Use

Fosmidomycin is used in the treatment of malaria, particularly infections caused by P. falciparum. It is often used in combination with other antimalarial drugs, such as piperaquine, to increase its efficacy and prevent the development of drug resistance.

Side Effects

Common side effects of fosmidomycin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less common side effects can include anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. As with all antibiotics, prolonged use of fosmidomycin can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains of the malaria parasite.

Research

Research is ongoing into the potential use of fosmidomycin in the treatment of other diseases, including tuberculosis and certain types of cancer. Its ability to inhibit isoprenoid biosynthesis may make it effective against other organisms that rely on this pathway for survival.

See Also

• Antibiotics
• Malaria
• Phosphonic acids
• Isoprenoids