Fumagillin (H-3), a New Antibiotic with Amebicidal Properties

Abstract

Fumagillin, a new crystalline antibiotic isolated from Aspergillus sp., is a potent amebicide. Activity against Endamoeba histolytica in vitro was 1:131,072,000 in the presence of mixed bacterial flora. In cultures having no multiplying bacteria the activity was similar; this was interpreted as indicating direct action. Exptl. infections with E. histolytica in young rats were cleared by oral admn. of fumagillin for 2 days, totaling ca. 11 mg./kg. In rabbits, the E. histolytica infections were cleared with total doses of 100 mg./kg. Fumagillin has also been reported active against bacteriophage.