Valinomycin

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Valinomycin (NSC 122023) is a potassium-specific ionophore that selectively complexes with K+ ions and integrates into biological bilayer membranes via its hydrophobic exterior, disrupting the normal K+ gradient. This disruption leads to membrane depolarization and subsequent cell death, while encapsulation in liposomes can reduce its cytotoxicity and improve targeting precision.