Introduction of a 16 alpha-hydroxyl function into estrone by Streptomyces roseochromogenes

Streptomyces roseochromogenes (NRRL B-1233) converted estrone predominantly into its 16 alpha-hydroxyl derivative. Chemical and spectroscopic (UV, IR, NMR, MS) methods were used in establishing the structure and strereochemistry of the oxidation product. The product was assigned as 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone (yield, 17%). No other oxidation product was detected in this experiment. An interrelationship between cell growth and 16 alpha-hydroxy-estrone formation was observed. Also, 16 alpha-hydroxylation of estrone was observed in resting cells. 16 alpha-Hydroxylase showed good activity at 3.7 X 10(-4)M of estrone concentration and was completely inhibited by 1.1 X 10(-3)M. These results indicate the presence of a constitutive 16 alpha-hydroxylase in the organism investigated.