Actinonin is a naturally occurring antibacterial compound that functions as a potent inhibitor of peptide deformylase, an enzyme essential for bacterial protein synthesis. This makes it a valuable lead compound in the development of novel antibiotics, particularly against drug-resistant bacterial strains. It has shown activity against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, prompting research into its use for treating infections where conventional antibiotics fail.

In addition to its antibacterial properties, actinonin exhibits anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. It has been studied for its ability to inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes involved in tumor invasion and metastasis, making it a candidate for cancer therapy research. It also modulates cellular differentiation and apoptosis in certain cancer cell lines.

Actinonin is widely used in biochemical research as a tool compound to study protein maturation processes and mitochondrial function, especially in eukaryotic cells where it can affect mitochondrial peptide deformylase. Its broad biological activity profile supports ongoing investigation into therapeutic applications in oncology, infectious diseases, and inflammatory conditions.