Synthesis of 5,6,7,8-Tetrahdro-D-neopterine tripolyphosphate. Attempt to Interpret the Biosynthesis of L-Sepiapterine

Article abstract of DOI:10.1002/hlca.19810640418

The synthesis was achieved by phosphorylation of tetrahydro-5,6,7,8-D-neopterine with polyphosphoric acid.The product is sensitive to light, moisture and oxidation like the other tetrahydropterines.After oxidation in aqueous solution, D,L-sepiapterine was isolated in 5percent yield.The oxidation of non-phosphorilated tetrahydro-5,6,7,8-D-neopterine under the same conditions led to D-sepiapterine without inversion of the configuration.These findings were used to give a tentative explanation for the biosynthesis of natural L-sepiapterine from the D-neopterine.