Swainsonine, from synthetic

Application

Swainsonine has been used:to test its effect on neural stem cell proliferationto inhibit α-mannosidase in TC-1 tumor cellsto inhibit β1,6-branching synthesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells

Swainsonine is a potent inhibitor of various α-mannosidases, especially of α-mannosidase II. It inhibits glycoprotein processing and also acts as immune modulator.

Biochem/physiol Actions

Swainsonine is an inhibitor of α-mannosidase in endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. It also activates the natural killer cells. Swainsonine elicits neurologic toxicity and its exposure impairs learning and memory resulting in cognitive deficit. It inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma and sensitizes them to respond to anti-cancer drug paclitaxel.

General description

Swainsonine is produced by endophytes, plant and insect pathogens. It is synthesized from the pipecolic acid and mevalonic acid. Swainsonine is a water-soluble indole alkaloid.