Aphidicolin is a tetracyclic diterpene antibiotic isolated from fungi, notably Cephalosporium, Nigrospora, Harziella and Phoma. Aphidicolin has antibiotic, antiviral and antimitotic properties, blocking the cell cycle at early S-phase. This property has been used to synchronise cell division and is useful as a tool in cell differentiation research. Aphidicolin induces apoptosis, prolongs the half-life of DNA methyltransferase, is active against Leishmania parasites and acts synergistically with the antitumor agents, vincristine and doxorubicin.
Aphidicolin is soluble in ethanol, methanol, DMF and DMSO and has limited water solubility.
CAS Number
38966-21-1
Molecular Formula
C20H34O4
Molecular Weight
338.5
Mechanism of Action
Aphidicolin is a reversible inhibitor of DNA replication by inhibiting selected DNA polymerases.
Storage Conditions
-20°C
Appearance
White to off-white powder