The effects of various phenolic compunds with cupric ion on DNA cleavage under aerobic conditions was examined using fluorometric analysis. Information on the relationship between their structure and DNA cleavage was obtained. The activity of compounds containing an OH group at the 3-position of the C-ring such as epigallocate-chin and gallocatechin, was much stronger than that of the corresponding ester. It was also found that the 2-hydroxy or 2-amino ethyl moiety at the para-position of pyrogallol or catechol is essential for potent activity.
The effects of biological control using Aspergillus melleus YUKAWA IAM2064 were investigated with a view to protecting pine trees from serious wilt disease. To observe the effects of the mycelium on control of the pine wilt desease in the natural world, a mycelium preparation was inoculated around the roots of pine trees in a golf links. Ninety-eight percent of the pine trees survived for two years after the mycelium inoculation, while the survival rate of untreated pine trees was 90%.