Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy has been used to evaluate the abi
lity of 21 different solvents to influence the aggregation state of am
photericin B. Using the relative donor/acceptor tendencies known for e
ach solvent system, it was possible to deduce information as to the fa
ctors which goven the self-association of amphotericin B. It was concl
uded that in the absence of strong solvent interaction, amphotericin B
prefers to self-associate into oligomeric species. This intrinsic dri
ving force can be overcome through the use of solvents which function
as strong electron pair donors, probably forming specific solvent-solu
te species. (C) 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.