beauvericin

Beauvericin is a cyclic hexadepsipeptide mycotoxin with antibiotic, insecticidal, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities[1][3][5]. It is produced by several fungi, notably Beauveria bassiana and various Fusarium species. It is known to act as an ionophore, transporting alkaline earth and alkali metal ions across cell membranes, which disrupts cellular ion homeostasis and can induce apoptosis and necrosis[1][6]. Beauvericin has shown in vitro activity against Gram-positive bacteria and mycobacteria, induces programmed cell death in mammalian cells, and exhibits notable insecticidal activity against a wide range of insect pests[1][3]. Its immunostimulatory effects have been observed through activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway in dendritic cells, suggesting potential as an immunomodulatory agent[5]. In combination with certain antifungals like ketoconazole, it demonstrates antifungal activity, particularly against Candida parapsilosis[1][3]. Beauvericin is also a common contaminant in cereal-based foods, leading to concerns over food safety[5]. Its biological activities are broad, but its direct therapeutic use is limited, and it is primarily studied as an experimental agent.

Other names

froM beauveria bassianacyclo-[d-alpha-hydroxyisovaleryl-l-n-methylphenylalanyl]3cyclo(-d-alpha-hydroxyisovaleryl-n-me-phe)3cyclo(d-α-hydroxyisovaleryl-l-n-methyl-phe)3BEAUVERFICINbeauverinbeauverin bassiaua vuilleminniveaboveinbassiana13C45-Beauvericin