Ascomycin (high purity)

Macrolide antibiotic. Ethyl analog of FK506. Strong immunosuppressant. Binds to the FK-506-binding protein FKBP12. This complex inhibits calcineurin (protein phosphatase 2B (PP2B)). Suppresses the production of T helper type 1 (Th1) (interferon and IL-2) and Th2 (IL-4 and IL-10) cytokines in T lymphocytes and preferentially inhibits the activation of mast cells. Anti-inflammatory. Used for topical treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. Potently inhibits anti-IgE-induced histamine and cytokine release and reduces IgE-dependent p38 MAPK activation in human basophils. Inhibits basophil degranulation at the initial phase of allergic skin reactions. Antifungal. Antimalaria compound. Anticonvulsant (antiepileptic).