Abstract: A biodegradation method for polyorganosiloxanes (POS), particularly polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS), includes contacting the POS with one or more microscopic fungi, preferably in the presence of at least one co-substrate, said fungus being selected from the family of Corticiacea, preferably of the genus Phanaerochaete or Aspergillus, more preferably Aspergillus sydowii BJS94, Phanerochaete sordida and Phanerochaete chrysosporium. A screening method comprises contacting a microscopic fungus with POS, preferably with PDMS, in the presence of a co-substrate, and evaluating the capacity of the fungus to degrade the POS. The fungi disclosed in the invention can be used in the biodegradation method. An isolate of Aspergillus sydowii BJS94 is also disclosed.

Abstract: A novel culture of the microorganism Streptomyces caligosus DS 14,486 and a novel proteolytic enzyme produced from cultivating the culture are disclosed. The enzyme has utility in the depilation of animal skins.

Abstract: The glycopeptide 31,177 RP is prepared by cultivating under aerobic conditions in an aqueous nutrient medium Streptomyces calidus DS 26,320 (NRRL 8141), a hitherto unknown microorganism. 31,177 RP is of interest as an inhibitor of glyco-hydrolases, e.g. the amylases, the maltases or the saccharases, particularly those of the digestive tract.