Biotransformation of tryptamine derivatives in mycelial cultures of Psilocybe.
Mycelial cultures of Psilocybe cubensis capable of forming psilocybin and psilocin de novo display a high capacity for hydroxylation of tryptamine derivatives at the 4-position. A specific biotransformation of added synthetic N,N-diethyl-tryptamine was found. Thus high amounts of 4-hydroxy-N,N-diethyltryptamine (up to 3.3%) and a minor quantity of 4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-diethyltryptamine (0.01-0.8%) were isolated from fruiting bodies of Psilocybe cubensis in corresponding experiments. This is the first example of a directed biosynthesis of tryptamine substances by fungi. An effective biotransformation of N-methyltryptamine was also demonstrated with surface cultures of Psilocybe semilanceata. Baeocystin, a possible natural precursor of psilocybin, was detected and quantified in the biomasses. No alkaloids could be found in the culture medium.
Gartz
J
J
Institut für Biotechnologie der AdW, Leipzig.
D000363:Agaricales / Q000378:metabolism*; D001711:Biotransformation; D055598:Chemical Phenomena; D002621:Chemistry; D002855:Chromatography, Thin Layer; D006900:Hydroxylation; D014363:Tryptamines / Q000378:metabolism*
D014363:Tryptamines