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[The nature of melanin pigments from some micro- and macromycetes]
1Institute of Microbiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus 220141.
Abstract:
New inhibitors of melanin formation by micromycetes Aspergillus carbonarius, Alternaria alternata, and Paecilomyces variotii and basidiomycetes Inonotus obliquus and Phellinus robustus were found. Precursors of melanin pigments were isolated and identified. p-Hydroxybenzoic acid was identified among the products of alkaline degradation of melanin formed by micromycetes, whereas in the case of macromycetes this was protocatechuic acid. Therefore, melanins of the former were found to belong to the dihydronaphthalene group, whereas those of the latter belong to catechols.
Insights
Researchers discovered novel melanin inhibitors from fungi like Aspergillus and Inonotus. Analysis revealed distinct melanin structures in micromycetes and macromycetes, aiding in understanding pigment biosynthesis and potential applications.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Biochemistry
- Natural Products Chemistry
Context:
- Melanins are vital biopigments with diverse roles.
- Fungi are a rich source of bioactive compounds, including melanin inhibitors.
- Understanding fungal melanin biosynthesis is crucial for biotechnological applications.
Purpose:
- To identify and characterize novel inhibitors of melanin formation from various fungal species.
- To elucidate the structural differences in melanins produced by micromycetes and macromycetes.
- To investigate the precursors and degradation products of fungal melanins.
Summary:
- New inhibitors of melanin formation were identified from micromycetes (Aspergillus carbonarius, Alternaria alternata, Paecilomyces variotii) and basidiomycetes (Inonotus obliquus, Phellinus robustus).
- Melanin precursors were isolated and identified.
- Alkaline degradation products indicated that micromycete melanins belong to the dihydronaphthalene group, while macromycete melanins belong to catechols.
Impact:
- Discovery of novel fungal melanin inhibitors for potential use in cosmetics or therapeutics.
- Provides insights into the chemical diversity of fungal melanins.
- Advances the understanding of melanin biosynthesis pathways in different fungal groups.