Isolation and partial characterization of a growth inhibitor of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis.

A lethal diffusible metabolite excreted by the yeastlike form of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis was isolated, purified, and partially characterized. The chemical structure of this metabolite suggested a relation to the phenol or benzoic acid families. The lethal effect on P. brasiliensis could not be attributed specifically to interference with synthesis of macromolecules, but probably through protein denaturation. This lack of specificity discounts its possible use as an antibiotic.