Novobiocin

Novobiocin

Novobiocin is an antibiotic that is derived from the Streptomyces genus of Actinobacteria. It is classified as an aminocoumarin antibiotic and is primarily used in the treatment of Gram-positive bacteria infections. Novobiocin works by inhibiting the DNA gyrase enzyme, which is essential for bacterial DNA replication.

History

Novobiocin was first isolated in 1955 from the Streptomyces spheroides strain of Actinobacteria. It was initially used as a broad-spectrum antibiotic, but its use has since been limited due to the development of drug resistance and the availability of safer alternatives.

Mechanism of Action

Novobiocin's primary mechanism of action is the inhibition of the DNA gyrase enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for introducing negative supercoils into DNA, which is necessary for DNA replication and transcription. By inhibiting this enzyme, Novobiocin prevents bacterial DNA replication, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth and proliferation.

Clinical Use

Novobiocin is primarily used in the treatment of infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species. It is also used in the treatment of infections caused by certain Gram-negative bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae.

Side Effects

Like all antibiotics, Novobiocin can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less common side effects can include rash, fever, and anemia. In rare cases, Novobiocin can cause serious side effects such as hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

Resistance

Resistance to Novobiocin can occur through several mechanisms. The most common mechanism is the modification of the DNA gyrase enzyme, which reduces the binding affinity of Novobiocin. Other mechanisms of resistance include the efflux of Novobiocin out of the bacterial cell and the production of enzymes that inactivate Novobiocin.

See Also

• Antibiotic resistance
• DNA gyrase
• Streptomyces