Zaragozic acids production from discomycetes

In search for new zaragozic acids and their derivatives that are potent inhibitors of squalene synthase, discomycetes of the order Leotiales were cultured and their fermentation broth was assayed. Three strains in 2 unidentified species ofMollisia were found to produce zaragozic acid D3 and three new analogs (F-10863s). Fermentative production, productivity of F-10863s and mycological characteristics of the producers are described. Discomycetes are expected to be a biological resource providing novel bioactive compounds.