Kanamycin sulfate

Kanamycin sulfate is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used in the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections. It is produced by the bacterium Streptomyces kanamyceticus and is used primarily in the treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria.

History

Kanamycin sulfate was first isolated in 1957 from Streptomyces kanamyceticus, a species of soil-dwelling bacteria. It was the first aminoglycoside antibiotic to be discovered after streptomycin, and its discovery marked a significant advancement in the treatment of bacterial infections.

Mechanism of Action

Kanamycin sulfate works by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of the bacterial cell, inhibiting protein synthesis and leading to cell death. It is bactericidal, meaning it kills bacteria rather than merely inhibiting their growth.

Medical Uses

Kanamycin sulfate is used to treat a variety of infections, including tuberculosis, sepsis, and infections of the urinary tract, respiratory tract, and abdomen. It is also used in combination with other antibiotics to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

Side Effects

Like all aminoglycoside antibiotics, kanamycin sulfate can have serious side effects, including ototoxicity (damage to the ear) and nephrotoxicity (damage to the kidneys). It is therefore used with caution and under close medical supervision.

Resistance

Resistance to kanamycin sulfate can occur through several mechanisms, including modification of the antibiotic, alteration of the target site, and active efflux of the drug from the bacterial cell. The emergence of antibiotic resistance is a major concern in the use of kanamycin sulfate and other antibiotics.

See Also

• Aminoglycoside
• Antibiotic resistance
• Streptomyces

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