Bikaverin (CAS: 33390-21-5)

Bikaverin is a tetracyclic benzoxanthone polyketide pigment mainly produced by Fusarium species. Its biosynthesis is driven by a dedicated polyketide synthase gene cluster and is regulated by nitrogen availability and pH. Bikaverin displays antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities and has been reported to affect fungal morphogenesis, including hyphal thickening and conidiation in Neurospora crassa. Although naturally red, bikaverin-containing biomass can shift toward blue coloration upon heat treatment, expanding its potential application as a natural pigment in food and biotechnology.