Tropodithietic Acid

Tropodithietic acid is a broad spectrum tropolone antibiotic with activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Displays cytotoxic effects on mammalian cell lines (neuronal N2a cells and OLN-93 cells as model systems for nerve cells and glia) acting via disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of ERK1/2 and induction of HSP32/HO-1 (considered as a sensor of oxidative stress). A broad-spectrum antibiotic agent produced by marine bacteria which does not appear to induce resistance after long-term exposure.