From a total synthesis of cepabactin and its 3:1 ferric complex to the isolation of a 1:1:1 mixed complex between iron (III), cepabactin and pyochelin.

A novel and straightforward total synthesis of cepabactin and its iron (III) complex is described. The latter compound was compared and identified to that obtained from the cultures of Burkholderia cepacia. On treatment of the growth medium of two different strains of B. cepacia with ferric chloride, we have isolated and characterized an unexpected mixed complex of iron (III), cepabactin and pyochelin.