Geneticin

Geneticin, also known as G418, is an aminoglycoside antibiotic similar in structure to gentamicin. It is produced by the bacterium Micromonospora rhodorangea. Geneticin is commonly used in laboratory research to select genetically engineered cells.

History

Geneticin was first isolated in the 1970s from the bacterium Micromonospora rhodorangea. It was initially used as an antibiotic due to its ability to inhibit protein synthesis in bacteria and fungi. However, its use in genetic engineering was discovered later.

Use in Genetic Engineering

In genetic engineering, Geneticin is used as a selective agent to isolate cells that have been transformed with a Geneticin resistance gene. The resistance gene codes for an enzyme known as neomycin phosphotransferase II (NPT II), which modifies Geneticin and renders it ineffective. Cells that have not been transformed with the resistance gene are unable to survive in the presence of Geneticin, allowing for the selection of transformed cells.

Mechanism of Action

Geneticin works by binding to the ribosome of the cell, causing a misreading of the genetic code and leading to the production of non-functional proteins. This ultimately results in the death of the cell. The NPT II enzyme, produced by cells transformed with the Geneticin resistance gene, phosphorylates Geneticin and prevents it from binding to the ribosome, thereby conferring resistance to the cell.

Safety and Toxicity

Like other aminoglycoside antibiotics, Geneticin can be toxic to certain types of cells and tissues. It is also potentially harmful if inhaled, ingested, or comes into contact with skin. Therefore, appropriate safety measures should be taken when handling Geneticin.

See Also

• Aminoglycoside
• Antibiotic
• Genetic Engineering
• Neomycin phosphotransferase II
• Ribosome

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