Biosynthetic studies on the p-benzoquinones produced by Shanorella Spirotricha Benjamin

From the culture medium of Shanorella spirotricha Benjamin, four p-benzoquinones have been isolated and identified. The major pigment is shanorellin (2,6-dimethyl-3-hydroxymethyl-5-hydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone). The other three pigments are the acetate, the ethyl ether and the dimer of shanorellin. Shanorellin was found to be synthesized via the acetate-polymalonate pathway by tracer experiments with ¹⁴C-labelled compounds and by chemical degradation of the labelled shanorellin produced. A study was made of the optimal conditions required for the production of these benzoqulnones. Significant factors were pH, temperature and sources of nitrogen and vitamins of the nutrient medium.Science, Faculty ofBotany, Department ofGraduat