Actinomycin D
Actinomycin D (CAS: 50-76-0, C62H86N12O16, MW: 1255.42) is a potent antineoplastic antibiotic derived from Streptomyces sp. This red powder exhibits significant cytotoxic properties by inhibiting cell proliferation, making it valuable in scientific research. Its primary applications include use as a selection agent in cell culture, investigation into viral replication, and the study of programmed cell death. Actinomycin D is also employed clinically in the treatment of certain malignant neoplasms.
- IUPAC
- Actinomycin C1,Actinomycin IV,Dactinomycin
- Synonyms
- DactinomycinActinomycin C1Actinomycin IV

Cell Culture Selection Agent
Actinomycin D is frequently used in cell culture as a selection agent. It is typically applied at a concentration of 1 μg/mL to inhibit cell proliferation.
Research into Cell Death Mechanisms
This compound is utilised in scientific studies to investigate programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cell lines, such as PC12 cells, and to explore its role in cellular signalling pathways.
Antiviral Research
Actinomycin D has been employed in research settings to study and suppress the replication of certain viruses, including its use in investigations concerning HIV replication.
Antineoplastic Agent
In a clinical context, Actinomycin D serves as an antibiotic for the treatment of various malignant neoplasms, notably Wilms' tumour and certain types of sarcomas.
| Molecular weight | 1255.42 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C62H86N12O16 |
| Assay | ≥95% |
| Form | powder |
| Colour | red, powder |
| Solubility | ethanol, DMSO: soluble (Stable in aqueous solutions at 2-8 °C.) |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Melting point | 251-253 |
| Application | Actinomycin D is an antineoplastic antibiotic that inhibits cell proliferation with wide-ranging applications ranging from a selection agent in cell culture, use in studies of suppressing HIV-replication and programmed cell death of PC12 cells, and as an antibiotic in treatment of various malignant neoplasms, including Wilm′s tumour and the sarcomas. Recommended for us in cell culture applications at 1μg/mL. |
| Suitability | suitable for cell culture |
| Biological source | from Streptomyces sp. |

Hazard statements
- H300Fatal if swallowed
Precautionary statements
- P264Wash thoroughly after handling
- P301IF SWALLOWED
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3462 6.1 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 28 |
| Safety statements (S) | 22-28-36/37-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Quality Level | PREMIUM |
|---|
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Actinomycin D used for?
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Actinomycin D is used as a selection agent in cell culture, in studies of programmed cell death and viral replication, and as an antibiotic for treating certain malignant neoplasms like Wilms' tumour and sarcomas.
What are the CAS number and formula for Actinomycin D?
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The CAS number for Actinomycin D is 50-76-0, and its empirical formula (Hill notation) is C62H86N12O16.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Actinomycin D?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Actinomycin D with an assay of ≥95% and is suitable for cell culture applications. It is classified as PREMIUM grade. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Actinomycin D be handled safely?
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Actinomycin D is a dangerous substance. Handle with extreme caution, using appropriate personal protective equipment including eyeshields, faceshields, gloves, and a full-face particle respirator. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for detailed handling instructions and emergency procedures. It carries the GHS06 symbol and the signal word 'Danger' due to its acute toxicity (H300).
How is Actinomycin D packed and exported?
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Actinomycin D is supplied as a red powder and typically stored at 2-8°C. TSS is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals.
How can I request a quote or sample of Actinomycin D?
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To request a quote or sample of Actinomycin D, please contact our sales team via the website or your usual sales representative.
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