Enterocin K1 (EntK1) is a ribosomally synthesized bacteriocin with potent antibacterial activity against Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), specifically targeting Enterococcus faecalis through interaction with the Eep protein on the bacterial membrane. The compound shows promise for research into VRE infections [1].

Enterocin K1 exhibits antimicrobial activity with MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) values ranging from 0.048 to 1.56 mg/mL against various enterococci [1]. No significant hemolytic effect on human erythrocytes was observed with Enterocin K1 at concentrations of 0.01, 0.1, and 1 mg/mL in whole blood [1]. Additionally, Enterocin K1, at a concentration of 1 mg/mL over 0-48 hours, demonstrated an enhanced inhibitory effect on bacteriocins in plasma—twofold higher than in saline—and in whole blood—twofold higher than in plasma [1]. In the spot-on-lawn assay, Enterocin K1 (with 10 μl of 1 mg/mL over 24 hours) showed that most MIC values against bacteriocins were greater than 25 mg/mL, indicating cross-resistance [1].