Colistin sulfate, USP (syn: polymyxin E) is a cationic, cyclic polypeptide antibiotic belonging to the polymyxin family. It is a natural product discovered in 1949 that is nonribosomally synthesized by Bacillus polymyxa subspecies colistinus Koyama. Colistin is mixture of Colistin A, B, and C. Colistin targets the bacterial cell membrane, leading to reduced permeability and cell death. It is effective against Gram-negative bacteria. It is soluble in water (50 mg/ml).
TOKU-E offers three forms of Colistin:
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CAS Number
1264-72-8
Molecular Formula
C52H98N16O13 •2.5 H2SO4 (Colistin Sulfate A)
Molecular Weight
1155.43 (Colistin Sulfate A)
Mechanism of Action
Colistin sulfate displaces essential ions (magnesium and calcium) in the lipopolysaccharide layer of the cell wall leading to local disturbance of the outer membrane, which causes increased permeability and eventually cell lysis.
Colistin also has anti-endotoxin activity. The endotoxin of Gram-negative bacteria is the lipid A portion of the lipopolysaccharide molecules, and colistin binds and neutralizes the lipolysaccharide (Falagas et al, 2005).
Storage Conditions
2-8°C
Tariff Code
2941.90.1050
Spectrum
Colistin sulfate is used primarily against Gram-negative bacteria and can also be used against Mycobacteria.