D-Cycloserine

D-Cycloserine, with the chemical formula C3H6N2O2 and CAS number 68-41-7, is an antibiotic that has been utilized in the treatment of tuberculosis. It functions by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, thereby exerting its bacteriostatic effect. As a secondary mechanism, D-Cycloserine also exhibits inhibitory activity against alanine racemase, an enzyme essential for the synthesis of peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls. The compound is typically administered orally and is well-absorbed, with peak serum concentrations achieved within 2-4 hours. D-Cycloserine has been shown to be effective against a range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, although its use is often limited due to potential neurological side effects, including psychosis and seizures, particularly at higher doses. As such, careful monitoring and dose adjustment are necessary to minimize adverse effects and optimize therapeutic efficacy.