Curvularin

Curvularin is a macrocyclic metabolite that is produced by certain fungi, including Curvularia species. It was first isolated in 1950 from Curvularia lunata, a fungus that is commonly found in soil and plant debris. Curvularin has been found to have various biological activities, including antibiotic, antifungal, and cytotoxic effects.

Structure and Synthesis[edit | edit source]

Curvularin is a macrocyclic lactone that contains a 14-membered ring. The structure of curvularin was first determined in 1963 by X-ray crystallography. The biosynthesis of curvularin involves the condensation of a polyketide chain, followed by cyclization to form the macrocyclic ring.

Biological Activity[edit | edit source]

Curvularin has been found to have a range of biological activities. It has antibiotic activity against a number of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis. It also has antifungal activity against several species of fungi, including Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. In addition, curvularin has been found to have cytotoxic activity against various cancer cell lines.

Toxicity[edit | edit source]

Curvularin is toxic to both plants and animals. In plants, it causes chlorosis, a condition in which leaves produce insufficient chlorophyll. In animals, it causes symptoms such as weight loss, liver damage, and death.