Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

1997

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Kerr, Russell G.

Abstract

A family of tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids, the ecteinascidins, are a group of biologically active secondary metabolites produced by the marine tunicate Ecteinascidia turbinata. Ecteinascidins have shown in vivo anti-tumor activity against P388 lymphoma, B16 melanoma, M5076 ovarian sarcoma, Lewis lung carcinoma, and LX-1 human lung and MX-1 human mammary carcinoma xenografts in laboratory mice. Because ecteinascidins are produced in low yields, 1x10^-4%, supply for clinical development is a significant problem. The ultimate goal of this study is to develop an enzyme-based synthesis of the ecteinascidins. In this regard, the biosynthesis of these alkaloids has been investigated. Optimal conditions for in vitro ecteinascidin biosynthesis were found. The origin of the C22-C1 two-carbon unit was identified as pyruvate and the tyrosine and DOPA diketopiperazines were identified as key intermediates. Methods were developed for an in-the-sea aquaculture of the colonal marine ascidian Ecteinascidia turbinata.

Extent

86 p.

Comments

Charles E. Schmidt College of Science|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1997.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Charles E. Schmidt College of Science

Identifier

FADT15454

Format

pdf

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