Process for producing streptovaricin c

Abstract

Disclosed is a method for selecting a mutant strain belonging to the genus Streptomyces which is a hyper-producer of Streptovaricin C superior to those know heretofore. This is accomplished by first subjecting a natural strain of Streptomyces spectabilis to conditions so as to isolate organisms which are streptovaricin resistant. The streptovaricin resistant organisms thus isolated are then subjected to mutagenesis and then cultured. The colonies which are asporogenous are individually cultured in fermentation batches such that the strains take the form of pellets of varying sizes and colors. From the batch having the most heterogeneous mixture of pellets, the smallest pellet or the pellet(s) having the deepest color (usually deep red or crimson) is isolated. We have discovered that the strain of this pellet has a high likelihood of being a hyperproducer of streptovaricin. The strain of this pellet may then be subjected to fermentation conditions to produce streptovaricin. The nutrient broth containing fumaric acid or water-soluble salts thereof, and adsorbent polymer beads and the streptovaricin produced are recovered in the usual manner. In another embodiment, the fermentation may be carried out in a nutrient broth wherein fumaric acid or its water-soluble salts are deliberately excluded to achieve even higher productivity.