A common triple-antibiotic-ointment component that jams the lipid carrier bacteria use to build their cell wall.
Also known as: bacitracin A
Part of the Foundational & therapeutic peptides cluster
Overview
Bacitracin is a mixture of related cyclic polypeptide antibiotics produced by Bacillus licheniformis. It inhibits dephosphorylation of C55-isoprenyl pyrophosphate (bactoprenol), the lipid carrier that ferries peptidoglycan subunits across the membrane, stalling Gram-positive cell-wall synthesis. Because systemic use can harm the kidneys, it is formulated topically, often with polymyxin B and neomycin. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Bacillus licheniformis / Bacillus subtilis
Primary research or clinical context: Approved topical antibiotic for minor skin and eye infections
Mechanism
Bacitracin, complexed with a metal ion, binds bactoprenol pyrophosphate and prevents its dephosphorylation. Without the recycled lipid carrier, bacteria cannot shuttle new peptidoglycan units to the growing wall, so cell-wall assembly halts. It acts mainly on Gram-positive organisms.
Topical role
First isolated in 1945, bacitracin is a staple of over-the-counter triple-antibiotic ointments for minor cuts and scrapes. Systemic administration is avoided due to nephrotoxicity, and contact allergy can occur, particularly in people sensitized to neomycin. It is discussed here for educational context.
FAQ about Bacitracin
What is Bacitracin?+
Bacitracin is a mixture of related cyclic polypeptide antibiotics produced by Bacillus licheniformis. It inhibits dephosphorylation of C55-isoprenyl pyrophosphate (bactoprenol), the lipid carrier that ferries peptidoglycan subunits across the membrane, stalling Gram-positive cell-wall synthesis. Because systemic use can harm the kidneys, it is formulated topically, often with polymyxin B and neomycin. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Is Bacitracin an approved medicine?+
Bacitracin: Approved topical antibiotic for minor skin and eye infections. Always follow licensed medical guidance for approved products.
What is the typical length of Bacitracin?+
Bacitracin is not a classic amino-acid chain peptide in the same sense; see the profile for classification details.