Antibiotics Target: Membrane

Question 1

Miconazole

Answer 1

Imidazole antifungal and antiprotozoal (Leishmania have ergosterol)
Inhibits ergosterol biosynthesis, interfering with membrane permeability

Question 2

Fluconazole

Answer 2

Synthetic triazole antifungal and antiprotozoal (Leishmania have ergosterol)
Inhibits ergosterol biosynthesis, affecting membrane permeability
Used in treatment of athletes foot and vaginal candidiasis

Question 3

Amphotericin B

Answer 3

Polyene antifungal and anti parasitic drug (Leishmania have ergosterol)
Binds to ergosterol and facilitates pore formation
Choice drug for most systemic fungal infections

Question 4

Valinomycin

Answer 4

Ionophoric peptide antibiotic produced by streptomyces.
Neutrally charged rings which insert into membrane (thereby taking on a positive charge from the ions passing through) to form a selective potassium channel. Hydrated K+ ions bind to carbonyl groups in the hydrophilic interior.
K&raquo_space;> Na