What Is Kanamycin?
Kanamycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, was first discovered in Japan in 1956. It is mainly used as an antibiotic to treat infectious enteritis and as a test reagent. For industrial production, kanamycin is biosynthesized using microorganisms.
Uses of Kanamycin
Kanamycin is effective in inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial proteins and the growth of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is used as an oral drug for infectious enteritis in humans and in veterinary medicine for treating infectious diseases in animals. Additionally, it is used in research and as a reagent in food analysis.
Properties of Kanamycin
Kanamycin A, the most common pharmaceutical form, is an organic compound with a molecular formula of C18H36N4O11・H2SO4 and a molecular weight of 582.58. It is a white to slightly pale yellow powder, well soluble in water but virtually insoluble in ethanol and ether.
Other Information on Kanamycin
1. Kanamycins as Natural Compounds
Natural compounds of kanamycin used as test reagents include kanamycin A and a small percentage of kanamycin B. It’s important to check the compound name, CAS number, and molecular weight before purchase and use.
2. Stability of Kanamycin
Kanamycin solutions are stable, with a titer remaining unchanged for 2 days when stored at 5°C. Both powder and aqueous solutions should be stored under refrigerated conditions to avoid degradation by light.
3. Kanamycin Toxicity
Kanamycin is ototoxic and nephrotoxic, associated with severe allergic reactions, and gastrointestinal, neurological, and musculoskeletal side effects. Due to its toxicity, it is only recommended for short-term therapy.
4. Precautions for Use of Kanamycin
Care must be taken to avoid mixing kanamycin with strong oxidizers and to dispose of it properly, preferably through a specialized waste disposal company, to prevent environmental contamination.