6-APA
6-APA is the chemical compound (+)-6-aminopenicillanic acid.
Use
6-APA is the core of penicillins. It is obtained from the fermentation brew of the Penicillium mold and used as the main starting block for the preparation of numerous semisynthetic penicillins.
History
In 1958, Beecham scientists in the UK discovered the penicillin nucleus, 6-APA. From that starting material, a large number of new semisynthetic penicillins could be designed, whose activity was directed against problem infections.
References
↑ Synthesis of Penicillin: 6-Aminopenicillanic Acid in Penicillin Fermentations - F. R. Batchelor, F. P. Doyle, J. H. C. Nayler & G. N. Rolinson. Nature 183, 257-258 (24 January 1959) doi:10.1038/183257b0
↑ F.P. Doyle, J.H.C. Nayler, G.N. Rolinson US Patent 2,941,995, filed July 22, 1958, granted June 21, 1960. Recovery of solid 6-aminopenicillanic acid.
External links
US patent 2,941,995 on espacenet
See also
7-ACA