Production of a new lysergic acid derivative in submerged culture by a strain of Claviceps paspali Stevens & Hall

Abstract

1. The production of a new lysergic-acid derivative, identified as D-lysergic acid [alpha]-hydroxyethylamide, in submerged culture and in yields up to 1 mg/ml. and above, by a strain of Claviceps paspali Stevens and Hall is reported; this substance can be converted in high yields into D-lysergic acid amide. 2. The morphological properties of this strain under different culture conditions are examined and it is shown that it grows in a form resembling natural sclerotia. 3. The biochemical culture conditions for the production of the new lysergic-acid derivative in shake flasks and in stirred fermenters, the course of the fermentation, the methods for the isolation and purification of the substance and its transformation products and some of its chemical and physical properties are described.