Detailed Explanation
Cyclic depsipeptide (12 residues, alternating D- and L-amino acids with ester bonds replacing some amide bonds) produced by Streptomyces bacteria. Valinomycin selectively transports potassium ions (K⁺) across biological membranes with 10,000-fold selectivity over sodium (Na⁺).
It acts as an ionophore — wrapping around K⁺ with its hydrophilic interior and presenting a hydrophobic exterior to the lipid bilayer, carrying the ion through the membrane. Valinomycin is used extensively as a research tool: in potassium-selective electrodes for clinical chemistry, as a membrane potential indicator in mitochondrial studies, and as a calibration standard for mass spectrometry. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, though toxicity limits clinical use.
Key Facts
- Cyclic depsipeptide (12 residues, alternating D- and L-amino acids with ester bonds replacing some amide bonds) produced by Streptomyces bacteria.
- Valinomycin selectively transports potassium ions (K⁺) across biological membranes with 10,000-fold selectivity over sodium (Na⁺).
- It acts as an ionophore — wrapping around K⁺ with its hydrophilic interior and presenting a hydrophobic exterior to the lipid bilayer, carrying the ion through the membrane.
- Valinomycin is used extensively as a research tool: in potassium-selective electrodes for clinical chemistry, as a membrane potential indicator in mitochondrial studies, and as a calibration standard for mass spectrometry.
- It has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, though toxicity limits clinical use.
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