[Luminescence absorption properties of the olivomycin molecule and its complex with DNA]

Olivomycin (I) is a fluorescent probe which is highly specific with respect to DNA. Its luminescence-absorption properties were studied at various pH values, in different solvents and in the presence of Mg2+ and DNA in the solutions. The presence of 2 tautomeric forms of I was suggested on the basis of the study (forms A and B having different characteristics with respect to the absorption spectra and fluorescence). Transition between forms A and B occurred in both the basic and the excited states. The quantitative ratio of the forms depended on the character of the environment. The presence of the 2 forms of I should be considered in analysis of the drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.