Merck, N7143-5MG, Nigericin sodium salt

General description
Nigericin, a polyether ionophore, serves as a probe of ion transport across mitochondrial membranes. It catalyzes the overall electroneutral exchange of K+ for H+(1) and acts as a potassium efflux activator. It may enhance bactericidal action via inflammasome-independent mechanisms specific to NLRP3 (NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3). Nigericin is a linear molecule with rings of heterocyclic oxygen together with a hydroxyl group. In the membrane, the molecule cyclizes to form a structure like valinomycin. Nigericin forms a neutral complex while losing a proton when it binds a cation which can diffuse across the membrane as a mobile carrier. Nigericin in protonated noncomplexed form is also considered mobile.
Chemical structure: polyether
Application
Nigericin sodium salt has been used to induce NLRP3 inflammasome activation in human macrophages. It has also been used as a bacterial toxin to trigger IL-1β secretion monocytes.
Biochem/physiol Actions
Polyether ionophore that disrupts membrane potential and stimulates ATPase activity in mitochondria.
Polyether ionophore that disrupts membrane potential and stimulates ATPase activity in mitochondria. Ion selectivity is K⁺> Rb⁺≥ Cs⁺>> Na⁺.
Other Notes
As ion-selective electrode - an efficient K⁺-carrier.