Echinomycin
Echinomycin
Echinomycin (pronounced: eh-kee-no-my-sin) is a quinoline antibiotic that is derived from the Streptomyces bacteria. It is known for its ability to bind to DNA and inhibit the process of transcription, making it a potent chemotherapeutic agent.
Etymology
The term "Echinomycin" is derived from the Greek word "echinos," meaning hedgehog, and "mykes," meaning fungus. This is in reference to the spiny appearance of the Streptomyces bacteria under a microscope.
Usage
Echinomycin is primarily used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and ovarian cancer. It works by binding to the minor groove of DNA, inhibiting the transcription process and preventing the replication of cancer cells.
Related Terms
- Quinoline: A type of heterocyclic aromatic organic compound.
- Streptomyces: A genus of Gram-positive bacteria that produces a high number of secondary metabolites.
- DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries genetic instructions in all living organisms.
- Transcription (genetics): The first step of gene expression, where a particular segment of DNA is copied into RNA.
- Chemotherapeutic: Referring to the treatment of disease, particularly cancer, by the use of chemical substances.
- Cancer: A group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.
- Melanoma: A type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes.
- Renal cell carcinoma: A type of kidney cancer that originates in the lining of the proximal convoluted tubule.
- Ovarian cancer: A cancer that forms in or on an ovary.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Echinomycin
- Wikipedia's article - Echinomycin
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