The intermediary role of a steroid 8,14-dien-3β-ol system in ergosterol biosynthesis

Abstract
1. A mechanism for the removal of the 14α-methyl group in ergosterol biosynthesis that involves the intermediacy of an 8,14-diene system is outlined. 2. In accordance with the requirements of this scheme, it is shown that 5α-ergosta-8,14-dien-3β-ol is converted into ergosterol by Saccharomyces cerevisiae.