The function of the desVIII gene in the pikromycin producer Streptomyces venezuelae was characterized by gene deletion and complementation analysis. In addition to the DesVII glycosyltransferase, the desVIII gene that has previously been suggested to be required for the incorporation of endogenous deoxysugar, TDP-D-desosamine, into the aglycone of pikromycin is also required for the transfer of exogenous deoxysugars, TDP-D-quinovose and TDP-D-olivose.