Total Synthesis and Absolute Configuration of Simpotentin, a Potentiator of Amphotericin B Activity.

The total synthesis of simpotentin (), a new potentiator of amphotericin B activity against , was achieved. Our research results enabled the access of all stereoisomers of and the elucidation of the unknown absolute configuration of . Furthermore, one of the stereoisomers is a better amphotericin B potentiator than and is an excellent lead compound for the development of a novel amphotericin B potentiator.

The secretory pattern and source of immunoreactive prolactin in pregnant African (Loxodonta africana) and Asian (Elephas maximus) elephants.

The objective of the present study was to define the secretion of prolactin (PRL) in pregnant African and Asian elephants. Levels of immunoreactive (ir-) PRL in serum and placental homogenates were measured by a heterologous radioimmunoassay (RIA) based on an ovine and human RIA system, and the localization of ir-PRL in the placenta was detected by immunohistochemistry using anti-human PRL. Circulating ir-PRL clearly showed a biphasic pattern during pregnancy in African and Asian elephants.