PURPOSE: To obtain a new compound useful as an antitumor agent showing strong inhibitory effect on proliferation of human and mouse tumor cells.
CONSTITUTION: This compound is shown by formula I (R is H or a lower alkyl) such as BE-39,907A1 of formula II. Properties: reddish orange solid. Molecular formula: C8H10N2O2. Solubility: readily soluble in methanol and acetone and insoluble in n-hexane: Color reaction: positive in iodine reaction and phosphomolybdic acid reaction. Distinction of acidity, neutrality and basicity: a basic substance. The compound is obtained by culturing a bacterium [preferably Saccharopolyspora sp. A39,907 (FERM P-14,071)] belonging to the genus Saccharopolyspora capable of producing a compound of formula II or formula III or its variant, collecting the compound of formula II or formula III from its culture solution and its cell and optionally alkylating, alkanoylating or benzoylating the compound of formula III.
UEMI KAORI
SUZUKI HAJIME
SUDA HIROYUKI
