David Paul Mobley

Biological Approaches for Polychlorinated Biphenyl Degradation

The accumulation of xenobiotic compounds in our environment has had a profound effect on our physical, social, economic, and political well-being. Some of these substances have been found to be harmful to humans, while others, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), have only been implicated as such. In either case, there has been a growing demand for their safe disposal or, preferably, destruction.

Synthesis of 3-arylmuconolactones using biphenyl metabolism in aspergillus

Abstract Strains of the fungus Aspergillus form 3-arylmuconolactones as secondary products of the metabolism of biphenyl and substituted biphenyls. The 3-arylmuconolactones are not found to support growth and can accumulate to significant concentrations. The metabolic pathway leading from hydroxylated biphenyls to lactones appears to proceed through 3,4-catechol intermediates.