Nikkomycins

Definition

Nikkomycins are a group of antifungal antibiotics that inhibit the synthesis of chitin, an essential component of fungal cell walls. They are primarily used to target fungal infections by disrupting the integrity of the fungal cell wall.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nikkomycins specifically inhibit chitin synthase, which is crucial for forming the fungal cell wall.
2. They are effective against a variety of fungi, including Candida and Coccidioides species.
3. Nikkomycins have potential therapeutic use in treating systemic mycoses and fungal infections in immunocompromised patients.
4. They can be synergistic when used with other antifungal agents like echinocandins.
5. Due to their specific mechanism of action, nikkomycins have minimal effects on human cells.

Review Questions

Related terms

Echinocandins:

A class of antifungal drugs that inhibit β-glucan synthase, another enzyme critical for fungal cell wall synthesis.

Amphotericin B:

An antifungal medication that binds to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes, creating pores and leading to cell death.

Chitin Synthase: An enzyme responsible for synthesizing chitin, a key structural component of fungal cell walls targeted by nikkomycins.