Mutagenesis Of Streptomyces Hygroscopicus FC 904 And Biosynthesis On Sirolimus

Sirolimus, a powerful immunosuppressant, is produced by Streptomyces hygroscopicus FC904. In an attempt to improve its production, mutation and screening were carried out. Spore suspensions and/or the forming buds were treated with UV, NTG and EMS, some of survivors were selected and followed by the resistance to itself metabolite, sirolimus. A higher sirolimus-producer mutant 33# was obtained and its biosynthesis on sirolimus was studied. The features of the mutant including the productivity of sirolimus, the susceptibility to antibiotics and its cultural characteristics were given.