Narasin

Narasin is a polyether monocarboxylic acid ionophore antibiotic and coccidiostat, originally isolated in 1978 from the fermentation product of *Streptomyces aureofaciens*. It exerts its biological activity by forming lipid-soluble, dynamically reversible complexes with monovalent cations, such as potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), and rubidium (Rb+). This complex acts as a carrier, facilitating the transport of these ions across the cell membranes of susceptible organisms. The resulting disruption of transmembrane ion gradients and electrical potentials critically affects cellular function and metabolism. Narasin is primarily utilized in veterinary medicine as a feed additive for the prevention and control of coccidiosis in poultry, caused by various *Eimeria* species, and for the prevention of necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens. It also serves as a growth promotant in cattle and swine. Beyond its antiparasitic and antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria, research indicates potential anticancer activity, including inhibition of NF-κB signaling, induction of tumor cell apoptosis, and suppression of tumor metastasis and growth in ERα-positive breast cancer cells by inactivating the TGF-β/SMAD3 and IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathways.

Brand names

Monteban

Other names

Narasin sodium