Biotransformation of corticosteroids by Penicillium decumbens ATCC 10436

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/0039-128X(95)00071-W

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.