Polyketides cytotoxic effects

Brefeldins A (4.104) and B, obtained from Penicillium brefeldianum and which also possess a cyclopentane ring, have a wide spectrum of biological activity, including antiviral and cytotoxic effects. Brefeldin A has been shown to incorporate acetate and specifically [9- C]palmitic acid, suggesting that it is biosynthesized by a fatty acid pathway. However, other macrolactones such as curvularin appear to be biosynthesized by a polyketide pathway. 

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