The review paper studies kojic acid, a secondary metabolite of fibrous fungi, as a carrier chemical structure of potential pharmaceuticals. The examined preparative procedures, physico-chemical and biologic properties, and especially the antifungal and antileukemic effects of the parent kojic acid indicate that novel potential drugs can be developed on its basis.

        Key words: kojic acid – 4-H-pyran-4-ones – kojic acid derivatives – antifungal and antileucemic activity