Monensin

Monensin isolated from Streptomyces cinnamonensis is a well-known representative of naturally polyether ionophore antibiotics. It is able to form pseudomacrocyclic complexes with mono and divalent cations and transport of the cations across cellular membrane. In cells monensin blocks the secretion of glycoproteins. It is soluble in chloroform, ethanol and methanol. Monensin plays an important role as an Na+/H+ antiporter, it blocks intracellular protein transport, and exhibits antibiotic, antimalarial, and other biological activities. The antibacterial properties of monensin and its derivatives are a result of their ability to transport monovalent and divalent metal cations through cellular and subcellular membranes.