CSA-8

CSA-8 is a synthetic cationic steroid antibiotic (ceragenin) designed to mimic the physicochemical properties and biological activity of endogenous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Developed as a small molecule mimic of squalamine, CSA-8 features a cholic acid-based scaffold with strategically placed amino groups that render the molecule facially amphiphilic. This structure allows CSA-8 to selectively target and insert into the negatively charged membranes of bacteria and fungi, leading to rapid membrane depolarization, permeabilization, and cell death. Unlike traditional antibiotics that often target specific metabolic enzymes, CSA-8's membrane-disrupting mechanism of action makes it less susceptible to common bacterial resistance mechanisms. It has been primarily investigated for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, particularly in the context of preventing biofilm formation on medical devices and treating topical infections.

Other names

Ceragenin CSA-8Cationic steroid antibiotic 8