Synthesis and characterization of allomelanin model from 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene autooxidation.

In this work a novel method for synthesis of 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene melanin was presented, as well as the physicochemical properties, molecular structure, and characteristics of the pigment. The proposed synthesis protocol is simple and cost-effective with no enzymes or catalysts needed. The final product is not adsorbed on any surface, since the pigment is the result of autooxidation of 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene.

Secrets of Flavonoid Synthesis in Mushroom Cells.

Flavonoids are chemical compounds that occur widely across the plant kingdom. They are considered valuable food additives with pro-health properties, and their sources have also been identified in other kingdoms. Especially interesting is the ability of edible mushrooms to synthesize flavonoids.

Detection of a pheomelanin-like pigment by EPR spectroscopy in the mycelium of Plenodomus biglobosus.

Melanin occurrence in Plenodomus biglobosus was investigated using electron paramagnetic (spin) resonance (EPR, ESR) spectroscopy. The fungus was isolated from living and dead leaves of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.).

Lipids, hemoproteins and carotenoids in alive Rhodotorula mucilaginosa cells under pesticide decomposition - Raman imaging study.

Various species of yeasts are gaining attention as producers of nutraceuticals and biofuels and due to their capacity to biodegrade chemical waste. Rhodotorula mucilaginosa is one of the most oleaginous species of yeast, an efficient de novo carotenoid producer and was reported to be capable of decomposing of organic pesticides. In this work we studied the influence of a toxic pesticide, diazinone, on production of storage (lipids) and protective (carotenoids, hemoproteins) compounds by Rh.