The Degradation of Lignin-related Compounds by Aspergillus flavus

Summary: Lignin-related compounds containing the β-aryl ether linkage were metabolized by Aspergillus flavus as sole carbon source. Growth measurements were made and degradation intermediates were identified using thin-layer chromatography, gas-liquid chromatography, and infra-red, proton nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopy. Degradation pathways were established by the detection of methanol as the product of demethoxylation reactions, and cleavage of the β-aryl ether bond was demonstrated by the use of a 14C-labelled model compound.