Biotransformation of alpha-cedrol and caryophyllene oxide by the fungus Neurospora crassa.

Incubation of alpha-cedrol and caryophyllene oxide with Neurospora crassa afforded 12beta-hydroxy cedrol, 10alpha-hydroxy cedrol, and 3beta-hydroxy cedrol, and 12beta-hydroxy caryophyllene oxide as major metabolites, respectively. The antibacterial and radical scavenging activities of the metabolites were evaluated in vitro using broth microdilution and bioauthographic techniques. However, no significant antibacterial and antioxidant activities were observed when compared with those of standard substances.