Biotransformation of corticosteroids by Penicillium decumbens ATCC 10436
The biotransformation of a series of corticosteroids by the fungus Penicillium decumbens ATCC 10436 has been investigated. Conversion to the corresponding 5α-dihydroxteroid was observed for all the Δ4-3-ketosteroids studied with the exception of deoxycorticosterone, which was converted to a Δ14-diene. Deoxycorticosterone acetate was, however, converted to a 5α- dihydro product concomitant with ester hydrolysis. Other substrates carrying a C-21 acetoxy group were also hydrolyzed to the alcohol. In two cases (resulting from deoxycorticosterone acetate and 11-deoxycortisone) the 5α- 3-keto-product was further reduced to the 3β-alcohol. No reduction of δ14-dienes was observed.