The structure of a peptide, containing α-aminoadipic acid, cystine and valine, present in the mycelium of Penicillium chrysogenum

Abstract

The N-terminal group of a peptide which occurs in the mycelium of P. chrysogenum has been shown to be [alpha]-aminoadipic acid and the amino acid sequence has been determined by partial hydrolysis with acid. The structure of the peptide is [delta] -([alpha]-aminoadipyl)cyst(e)inylvaline. [alpha]-Aminoadipic acid has also been isolated from mycelium and appears to be present mainly as the L-enantiomorph. The possible function of [alpha]-aminoadipic acid, of the peptide and of cephalosporin N in penicillin biosynthesis is discussed.