Gilvocarcin M (CAS 77879-89-1)

Gilvocarcin M is a complex natural product belonging to the gilvocarcin group of antibiotics, originally isolated from the bacterium Streptomyces griseoflavus. Structurally characterized by a chromophore linked to a glycosidic moiety, gilvocarcin M exhibits a notable mode of action primarily through the formation of a covalent adduct with DNA upon activation by light. Specifically, under UV irradiation, gilvocarcin M generates reactive oxygen species and binds to the guanine bases of DNA, thereby interfering with DNA replication and transcription processes. This interaction not only inhibits the growth of cells by blocking genetic material replication but also has been shown to cross-link DNA to associated proteins, further disrupting cellular functions. In research, gilvocarcin M has been extensively used to study the photochemical properties of drug-DNA interactions, offering insights into the dynamics of photo-induced cytotoxicity. These studies are crucial for understanding how light-activated compounds can be used to manipulate biological processes at the molecular level, including the design of photo-responsive drugs. Additionally, research on gilvocarcin M has contributed to broader discussions in the fields of chemical biology and photopharmacology, particularly in how natural products can be engineered to enhance their efficacy and selectivity as potential tools for controlling biological pathways in a light-dependent manner.