Violacein is an intense violet pigment formed by the condensation of two tryptophan units, found in a number of bacteria, notably Chromobacterium violaceum. The regulation of pigment biosynthesis is the chromogenic basis for the use of C. violaceum CV26 for the detection of quorum sensing mediators. Violacein cell toxicity resembles TNF-α signal transduction.
Violacein is soluble in ethanol, methanol, DMF and DMSO.
CAS Number
548-54-9
Molecular Formula
C20H13N3O3
Molecular Weight
343.3
Mechanism of Action
Violacein exhibits broad spectrum activity against bacteria, protozoans (including malaria), viruses and mammalian cell lines.
Storage Conditions
-20°C