What is cycloheximide?

Cycloheximide is a bacterial toxin that interferes with protein biosynthesis Some cells also use it to construct proteins to perform different functions Laboratory researchers use the compound in experiments where protein expression needs to be controlled The compound can be obtained from a scientific supplier, with different product forms available for different studies Cycloheximide is not safe for organisms because it is linked to birth defects and is a teratogen - a compound that can cause deformities in the body In nature, Streptomyces bacteria produce this compound Scientific supply enterprises can use a variety of technologies to produce very pure forms and sell them to consumers separately The cycloheximide sold on the market is usually powder and can be used after rehydration Powder products are easy to transport and store because they are lighter than liquids and can be sealed in the packaging to limit the risk of spillage When cycloheximide enters eukaryotic cells (complex structures similar to organelles), it interrupts protein biosynthesis in the transformation stage This is a stage in which genetic information messenger RNA (mRNA) is decoded by cell ribosomes in order to construct proteins When this process is interrupted, the cell cannot build the protein or make mistakes in the final product Researchers can use cycloheximide in different experiments that want to control protein production when growing cells It can also be used as an antibiotic to grow different tissues In addition, the researchers used it to regulate plant growth The main use of cycloheximide is laboratory based, as there is a risk relationship between human and animal health and cycloheximide in the wild For example, although it can be used as a fungicide, the fear of deformity often makes people give up the possibility of using it as a fungal treatment The advantages of this compound can be utilized in the laboratory environment for experimental purposes They are for scientific research only, but they cannot be used as drugs for humans and animals There are other antibiotics that can treat organisms and also benefit from interfering with protein biosynthesis Workers exposed to cycloheximide and similar chemicals usually wear protective clothing to limit exposure and avoid contamination.