Optochin

Optochin (or ethylhydrocupreine hydrochloride) is a chemical compound often used in laboratory settings. It is a derivative of quinine, a natural substance found in the bark of the Cinchona tree. Optochin is primarily used as a selective agent in the isolation and identification of Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium that can cause serious infections in humans.

History

Optochin was first synthesized in the early 20th century. It was initially used as an antimalarial drug, similar to its parent compound quinine. However, its use in this capacity was limited due to its toxicity. In the 1920s, researchers discovered that optochin had a selective inhibitory effect on Streptococcus pneumoniae, leading to its use in microbiology labs.

Use in Microbiology

In the laboratory, optochin is used in agar plates to isolate Streptococcus pneumoniae. When these bacteria are exposed to optochin, they are unable to grow. This allows for the easy identification and isolation of the bacteria. The optochin sensitivity test is a standard part of the identification process for Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Mechanism of Action

Optochin works by disrupting the function of the bacteria's cell membrane. This causes the bacteria to lose its ability to maintain homeostasis, leading to cell death. The exact mechanism of how optochin disrupts the cell membrane is not fully understood.

Safety and Toxicity

While optochin is useful in the laboratory, it is not used in medical treatment due to its toxicity. It can cause a variety of side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can cause cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory failure.

See Also

• Quinine
• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Agar plate
• Cell membrane

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