Merck, N3503-5MU, Nystatin

General description
Nystatin is a polyene antibiotic.
Chemical structure: polyene
Application
Nystatin is used as a fungal membrane (ergosterol binding) pore forming agent and to create nystatin/ergosterol based ion channels in lipid bilayers. Its uses include preventing cell culture contamination and inducing interleukin (IL)-1, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor α secretion in TLR2-expressing THP1 cells. This product is recommended for use in cell culture applications at 50 mg/L.
Biochem/physiol Actions
Mode of Action: Nystatin acts by binding to ergosterols in fungal cell membranes, increasing permeability of the membrane, and creating nystatin/ergosterol based ion channels. It also functions as a lipid raft-inhibiting reagent and as membrane associated cholesterol.

Antimicrobial spectrum: Nystatin acts against fungi, yeasts and molds.
Preparation Note
Nystatin is soluble at 28°C in methanol (11.2 mg/mL), ethanol (1.2 mg/mL), carbon tetrachloride (1.23 mg/mL), chloroform (0.48 mg/mL), benzene (0.28 mg/mL), and ethylene glycol (8.75 mg/mL). It is also soluble in DMSO at 5 mg/mL and freely soluble in DMF and formamide. It is not recommended to autoclave or sterile filter solutions of Nystatin. Prepare 50 mg/mL stock suspensions in water and store at -20°C.
Other Notes
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.Store under inert gas. Air and light sensitive.
Disclaimer
Nystatin in tissue culture media is stable at 37°C for three days. It is also stable in moderately alkaline media. Solutions and aqueous suspensions begin to lose activity soon after preparation, with heat, light, and oxygen accelerating the decomposition. Aqueous suspensions are stable for 10 minutes when heating to 100°C at pH 7.