STUDIES ON BLASTICIDIN A

Abstract

Blasticidin A (C51-52H99-101O23N1/2Ca, m. p. 165.5-166.5°C, λmax 246 mμ and 298mμ in 50 % methanol, [α]24D-31° in pyridine) was isolated in crystal form as calcium-chelated compound. The antibiotic shows activity against a variety of microorganisms with relatively less toxicity to mice orally. It seems to have some relationship to polyene macrolide antibiotics, but has marked differences in its properties. The isolation, purification and physicochemical properties of the antibiotic are described.