Abstract: The invention relates to a novel method for the production of ?-carotene from submerged cultures of mucoral fungi such as Blakeslea, Choanephora or Phycomyces by adding lectin to the culture medium and performing pH control once fermentation has started. The method involves ?-carotene recovery stage that makes it possible to simplify the process, optimize yields and increase purification of the product.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel method for the production of &bgr;-carotene from submerged cultures of mucoral fungi such as Blakeslea, Choanephora or Phycomyces by adding lectin to the culture medium and performing pH control once fermentation has started. The method involves &bgr;-carotene recovery stage that makes it possible to simplify the process, optimize yields and increase purification of the product.

Abstract: Alternative process for obtaining 6-aminopenicillanic acid. The process comprises replacing the stages of extraction with organic solvents and isolation and separation of the intermediate penicillin salt as a solid by a process of ultrafiltration of the culture broth in at least 2 successive stages. The first stage has a cut-off for molecular weights of 20,000 Dalton and the second, 2000 Dalton. Subsequent to the enzyme conversion stage the products from that stage are subjected to a series of anionic exchange chromatography steps.

Abstract: Process for purifying 7-substituted aminodeacetoxycephalosporins through the use of filter membranes. A process for purification by ultrafiltration and/or nanofiltration with a cut-off for molecular weights over 10,000 Dalton and preferably over 2000 Dalton is described. For example cephalosporin-G of increased purity, represented by a 6-8% increase in the HPLC titre, with a reduction of 50% in absorbance, is obtained using this technique. The invention makes it possible for the purified products to be used directly in the synthesis of other antibiotic compounds without the need for intermediate isolation.