Spinosyn A

September 27, 2011
Image of Spinosyn A 3D Image of Spinosyn A

Spinosyn A, along with its almost identical isomer, spinosyn D, is a component of spinosad, a US Environmental Protection Agency–registered insecticide and Food and Drug Administration–registered topical treatment for head lice. The active ingredients are produced by the bacterium Saccharopolyspora spinosa. An enzyme in genes extracted from in this bacterium is the first natural product shown to catalyze the Diels–Alder reaction, a step in spinosyn biosynthesis.

Chemical Abstract Service - a division of ACS

Learn more about this molecule from CAS, the most authoritative and comprehensive source for chemical information.

Molecule of the Week needs your suggestions!

If your favorite molecule is not in our archive, please send us a message. The molecule can be notable for its current or historical importance or for any quirky reason. Thank you!

Stay Ahead of the Chemistry Curve

Learn how ACS can help you stay ahead in the world of chemistry.