Large-Scale Transformation of Steroids by Fungal Spores

摘要

Spores of Aspergillus ochraceus and Septomyxa affinis were produced on a large scale by surface sporulation on moist wheat bran and barley. 11α-Hydroxylation of progesterone and Reichstein's compound S by spores of A. ochraceus and 1-dehydrogenation of compound S by spores of S. affinis were carried out in 5-liter fermentors. It was shown that, above a certain minimum, increase in aeration and agitation did not significantly affect steroid conversion. The industrial feasibility of the spore process was further demonstrated by 11α-hydroxylation of 6α-fluoro-16α,17α-dihydroxypregn-4-ene-3,20-dione in a modified 200-gal stainless-steel vessel with spores of A. ochraceus. Strict aseptic conditions are not necessary, either during harvesting of spores or during steroid transformation.