What is "polyketide"

n. 1 (context organic chemistry English) Any polymer whose monomer is a ketide. 2 (context biochemistry English) Any of many biochemical intermediates, having such a structure, that have a role in biosynthesis and metabolism.

Polyketides are a class of secondary metabolites produced by certain living organisms in order to impart to them some survival advantage. Many mycotoxins produced by fungi are polyketides.

Structurally, polyketides are complex organic compounds that are often highly active biologically. Many pharmaceuticals are derived from or inspired by polyketides.

| Geldanamycin, a useful antibiotic. | Doxycycline, another important antibiotic. A.svg| Erythromycin, an antibiotic. B1 Structural Formulae V.1.svg| Aflatoxin B1 one of the most carcinogenic compounds known.