Search Results (771)

The most common reason for a decrease in the quantity and quality of produced crops is microbial diseases. The aims of this study were to evaluate the antagonistic activity of Streptomyces sp. CACIS-1.16CA against plant pathogenic fungi and to assess its bioactive metabolites to inhibit fungal conidial germination. Antagonistic evaluations of fungal phytopathogens were performed using dual and multiple confrontation assays. Additionally, the inhibitory effect of the bioactive extract (BE) containing secondary metabolites produced by the CACIS-1.16CA strain on the germination of conidia from some fungi was tested. The results indicate that Streptomyces sp. CACIS-16CA inhibited the growth of all tested pathogens (16 strains) with percentages of inhibition (PIs) ranging from 43.3% to 72%, while S. lydicus inhibited 13 of the 16 fungi, with PI values from 35.6% to 68.5%. Moreover, CACIS-1.16CA exerted superior PI values (significant differences at p < 0.05) than S. lydicus against the damping-off fungi consortia with Phytophthora capsici, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizoctonia solani. Otherwise, an inhibitory effect was observed on the germination of conidial cells due to the interaction with the BE in Alternaria sp., Botrytis cinerea, and Colletotrichum spp. In conclusion, Streptomyces sp. CACIS-1.16CA may serve as an effective and natural alternative for managing several fungal plant diseases. Full article

Modern agriculture requires effective and sustainable tools to enhance crop performance while minimizing the environmental impact. In this context, the application of fungal-derived bioactive compounds directly onto seeds represents a promising alternative. In this study, tomato seeds (Solanum lycopersicum) were subjected to mycopriming treatment using two fungal extracts obtained from the mycelium and culture filtrate of Talaromyces ruber. Two independent greenhouse trials were conducted to assess germination dynamics, morphometric traits, and physiological parameters (chlorophyll content, flavonol index, and anthocyanin index). Although germination rates were not significantly affected, root development was consistently enhanced by the treatments compared with the control group in both experiments. In contrast, no clear improvement was observed in shoot growth or leaf physiological parameters. Overall, the application of T. ruber extracts via seed priming proved to be a feasible strategy to stimulate early-stage root development in tomatoes, potentially contributing to improved seedling vigor and agronomic performance. These findings support the potential use of fungal extracts as practical tools for improving seedling quality in commercial nursery production. Full article

Background/Objectives: Anaerobic gut fungi (Neocallimastigomycota) are biotechnologically relevant, lignocellulose-degrading microbes with under-explored biosynthetic potential for secondary metabolites. Untargeted metabolomic profiling with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was applied to two gut fungal strains, Anaeromyces robustus and Caecomyces churrovis, to establish a foundational metabolomic dataset to identify metabolites and provide insights into gut fungal metabolic capabilities. Methods: Gut fungi were cultured anaerobically in rumen-fluid-based media with a soluble substrate (cellobiose), and metabolites were extracted using the Metabolite, Protein, and Lipid Extraction (MPLEx) method, enabling metabolomic and proteomic analysis from the same cell samples. Samples were derivatized and analyzed via GC-MS, followed by compound identification by spectral matching to reference databases, molecular networking, and statistical analyses. Results: Distinct metabolites were identified between A. robustus and C. churrovis, including 2,3-dihydroxyisovaleric acid produced by A. robustus and maltotriitol, maltotriose, and melibiose produced by C. churrovis. C. churrovis may polymerize maltotriose to form an extracellular polysaccharide, like pullulan. GC-MS profiling potentially captured sufficiently volatile products of proteomically detected, putative non-ribosomal peptide synthetases and polyketide synthases of A. robustus and C. churrovis. The triterpene squalene and triterpenoid tetrahymanol were putatively identified in A. robustus and C. churrovis. Their conserved, predicted biosynthetic genes—squalene synthase and squalene tetrahymanol cyclase—were identified in A. robustus, C. churrovis, and other anaerobic gut fungal genera. Conclusions: This study provides a foundational, untargeted metabolomic dataset to unmask gut fungal metabolic pathways and biosynthetic potential and to prioritize future efforts for compound isolation and identification. Full article

Aflatoxins, toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus species, are widespread contaminants in food and feed, with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) recognized as the most potent carcinogen. Climate change increases the risk of contamination by promoting fungal proliferation. While the hepatotoxic and enterotoxic effects of aflatoxins are well established, emerging evidence highlights their immunosuppressive and neurotoxic potential. Notably, AFB1 disrupts gut microbiota, compromises intestinal barrier integrity, and induces neuroinflammation via the microbiota–gut–brain axis. Probiotics have shown promise in mitigating these effects by modulating microbial balance, enhancing barrier function, and reducing neuroinflammatory responses. This review summarizes current findings on the systemic toxicity of aflatoxins—particularly their impact on the gut–brain axis—and evaluates the therapeutic potential of probiotics in counteracting aflatoxin-induced damage. Full article

Talaromyces pinophilus is a filamentous fungus with notable lignocellulose-degrading capacity based on enzyme activities and protein secretion potential, making it a compelling candidate for industrial biotechnology applications. In this study, we present the genomic characterization of the highly cellulolytic strain Y117, a domesticated variant of T. pinophilus, based on whole-genome sequencing and comparative genomic analysis with eleven related strains. Comprehensive analysis of CAZymes, transcription factors, and secondary metabolite diversity in T. pinophilus strains revealed that the exceptional lignocellulose degradation capacity of Y117 is driven by its unique genomic architecture. Key genomic features that distinguish Y117 include (1) significant expansion of glycoside hydrolase (GH) and carbohydrate-binding module (CBM) families, (2) loss of fungal-RiPP-like clusters, and (3) absence of the developmental regulator BrlA. These genomic adaptations could indicate a metabolic trade-off favoring hydrolytic enzyme production over secondary metabolism and sporulation. Our findings provide fundamental insights into fungal lignocellulose degradation mechanisms while establishing Y117 as a promising chassis for metabolic engineering applications in industrial enzyme production and heterologous protein expression. Full article

Constructed wetlands are increasingly recognised for their potential in wastewater treatment, particularly in the removal of pathogenic microorganisms. However, the mechanisms of removal are not fully understood. This study investigated the role of endophytic and rhizosphere fungi and associated secondary metabolites in the removal of pathogenic bacteria from wastewater. Endophytic and rhizosphere fungi were isolated from roots of wetland macrophytes (T. latifolia, C. papyrus and P. mauritianus) and screened for their antimicrobial effects on E. coli, Shigella spp., Salmonella spp. and Vibrio spp. Secondary metabolites were extracted from fungal isolates (broth cultures) and tested for their antibacterial activity as a possible mechanism of pathogen removal. Antimicrobial activity of the fungi and their metabolites, measured as zones of inhibition, was analysed using ANOVA at a 5% significance level. Active secondary metabolites were identified using GC-MS techniques. Four fungal isolates (three endophytic, one rhizospheric) from the genus Candida exhibited antimicrobial activity against E. coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. and Vibrio spp. in vitro. There were significant differences in inhibition zones (p < 0.0001) between the different species of fungi. Fungus RTGRS did not show any antibacterial activity on Vibrio spp. and Shigella spp. but showed the highest zones of inhibition of 21.17 ± 0.75 against Salmonella spp. This study demonstrated that the selected wetland macrophytes harbour both endophytic and rhizosphere fungi that can produce bioactive compounds that have antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria E. coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. and Vibrio spp., contributing to pathogen removal in CWs. The findings have implications for the design and operation of CWs, as it is important to select macrophytes that harbour fungi with antimicrobial properties. More research is needed on the use of these fungi in wastewater treatment in full-scale CWs. Full article

The appressorium is a specialised infection structure formed by Beauveria bassiana during host invasion. This study used sulforaphane to regulate the formation rate of B. bassiana appressoria, evaluated the correlation between appressorium formation and fungal pathogenicity, and explored its impact on insect cuticular metabolism. The results showed that sulforaphane significantly modulated appressorium formation. Spore suspensions with varying appressorium formation rates were injected into Opisina arenosella and Bombyx mori larvae. As the appressorium formation rate increased, B. bassiana exhibited enhanced pathogenicity, leading to accelerated larval mortality. A significant positive correlation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed between appressorium formation and pathogenicity. LC-MS analysis revealed that, prior to appressorium development, larvae activated defence mechanisms involving secondary metabolites, hormone signalling, and toxin metabolism pathways. Following appressorium formation, 61 unique cuticular compounds were identified, along with activation of host lipid metabolism (notably glycerophospholipid degradation), programmed cell death pathways (ferroptosis, necroptosis), and enhanced energy metabolism via the citric acid cycle—collectively indicating disruption of the epidermal defence barrier. Overall, appressorium development by B. bassiana significantly reshapes the metabolic landscape of the larval cuticle, thereby enhancing fungal virulence. This study provides a theoretical foundation for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of B. bassiana. Full article

Endophytes are important sources of bioactive secondary metabolites with therapeutic and agricultural relevance. This study reports the isolation and characterization of bioactive compounds from endophytic Fusarium solani associated with Solanum surattense. The fungal strain, selected after preliminary screening for its antimicrobial potential, was identified through morphological and molecular methods. A pure compound, 4-hydroxyphenyl 8-chlorooctanoate with a molecular mass of 270, was obtained and structurally characterized using GC–MS, FTIR, and NMR spectroscopy. Its anti-microbial potential was evaluated through molecular docking against key bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus) and fungal (Aspergillus fumigatus) targets, showing notable binding affinities with ClpP protease (−7.1 kcal/mol) and 14α-demethylase (−7.4 kcal/mol), respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations further confirmed the stability of the 5FRB-compound complex, with lower RMSD and RMSF values indicating strong structural integrity. Supporting analyses (B-factor and radius of gyration) confirmed the compactness and rigidity of the complex. These findings highlight the potential of 4-hydroxyphenyl 8-chlorooctanoate as a promising antimicrobial agent and provide a strong basis for further in vitro and in vivo validation of the purified compound as an antimicrobial candidate. Full article

Monascus purpureus is a filamentous fungus known for producing pharmaceutically valuable secondary metabolites, including azaphilone pigments and lovastatin. Lovastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor widely used to manage hypercholesterolaemia, while Monascus pigments serve as natural colourants with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. This study evaluated the impact of quorum-sensing molecules (QSMs)—tyrosol (0.3 mM), farnesol (0.2 mM) and linoleic acid (0.4 mM)—on pigment and lovastatin yields in shake flasks and 2.5 L stirred-tank bioreactors. QSMs were introduced 48 h post-inoculation in shake flasks and 24 h in bioreactors. All QSMs increased yellow (OD₄₀₀), orange (OD₄₇₀), and red (OD₅₁₀) pigments and lovastatin concentration relative to the control, with scale-up further enhancing yields. Farnesol produced the most pronounced effect: in flasks, OD₄₀₀ 7.10 (1.86-fold), OD₄₇₀ 8.00 (2.12-fold), OD₅₁₀ 7.80 (2.08-fold), and 74.6 mg/L lovastatin (2.05-fold); in bioreactors, OD₄₀₀ 11.9 (2.06-fold), OD₄₇₀ 15.1 (2.71-fold), OD₅₁₀ 13.7 (2.47-fold), and 97.2 mg/L lovastatin (2.48-fold). This was followed by tyrosol treatment and then linoleic acid. These findings demonstrate that QSMs—particularly farnesol—significantly (p < 0.01) stimulate pigment and lovastatin biosynthesis in M. purpureus. Quorum sensing modulation represents a promising, scalable strategy to optimise fungal fermentation for industrial metabolite production. Full article

Early blight, caused by the pathogen Alternaria solani, is a major fungal disease impacting potato production globally, with reported yield losses of up to 40% in susceptible varieties. As one of the most common diseases affecting potatoes, its incidence has been steadily increasing year after year. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to early blight by comparing gene expression profiles in resistant (B1) and susceptible (D30) potato seedlings. Transcriptome sequencing was conducted at three time points post-infection (3, 7, and 10 dpi) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and pathway enrichment analyses were performed to explore resistance-associated pathways and hub genes. Over 11,537 DEGs were identified, with the highest number observed at 10 dpi. Genes such as LOC102603761 and LOC102573998 were significantly differentially expressed across multiple comparisons. In the resistant B1 variety, upregulated genes were enriched in plant–pathogen interaction, MAPK signaling, hormonal signaling, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis pathways, particularly flavonoid biosynthesis, which likely contributes to biochemical defense against A. solani. WGCNA identified 24 distinct modules, with hub transcription factors (e.g., WRKY33, MYB, and NAC) as key regulators of resistance. These findings highlight critical molecular pathways and candidate genes involved in early blight resistance, providing a foundation for further functional studies and breeding strategies to enhance potato resilience. Full article

Neocosmospora (Nectriaceae) is a globally distributed fungal genus, traditionally recognized as a group of plant pathogens, with most members known to cause severe plant diseases. However, recent studies have demonstrated that many of these fungi can also colonize plants endophytically, with certain strains capable of promoting plant growth and stimulating the production of secondary metabolites. In this study, 13 strains of Neocosmospora were isolated from the stems and leaves of Dracaena cambodiana and D. lourei in Yunnan Province, China. To clarify the taxonomic placement of these strains, morphological examination and multi-gene (ITS, nrLSU, tef1, rpb1, and rpb2) phylogenetic analyses were performed. Based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence, four new species are introduced and described here: N. hypertrophia, N. kunmingense, N. rugosa, and N. simplicillium. This study expands our understanding of the fungal diversity associated with Dracaena, provides essential data for the taxonomy of Neocosmospora, and serves as a resource for the future development and utilization of Neocosmospora endophytes. Full article

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced primarily by certain species of the genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Alternaria, and Claviceps. Toxigenic fungi and mycotoxins are prevalent in staple foods, resulting in significant economic losses and detrimental impacts on public health and food safety. These fungi demonstrate remarkable adaptation to water and heat stress conditions associated with climate change, and the use of synthetic antifungals can lead to the selection of resistant strains. In this context, the development of novel strategies for their prevention and control of food is a priority objective. This review synthesizes the extant knowledge concerning the antifungal and anti-mycotoxin potential of the primary metal nanoparticles (silver, copper) and metal oxide nanoparticles (copper oxide and zinc oxide) studied in the literature. It also considers synthesis methods and the lack of consensus on technical definitions and regulations. Despite methodological gaps and the scarcity of publications analyzing the effect of these NPs on fungal growth and mycotoxin production simultaneously, it can be concluded that these NPs present high reactivity, stability, and the ability to combat these food risks. However, aspects related to their biosafety and consumer acceptance remain major challenges that must be addressed for their implementation in the food industry. Full article

Cordyceps takaomontana is a medicinal fungus with significant pharmacological value, but how soil microbes promote its growth remains unclear. We established a solid-state co-culture system involving C. takaomontana synnemata and its native soil fungi of Fusarium paeoniae and Bjerkandera minispora. Both F. paeoniae and B. minispora significantly promoted synnematal growth and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities. Total triterpenoid content increased substantially. F. paeoniae markedly elevated levels of ergosterol peroxide, whereas B. minispora boosted accumulation of L-arabinose, ergotamine, and euphol. Metabolomics revealed that both fungi activated key metabolic pathways (including ABC transporters, mineral absorption, and protein digestion/absorption). F. paeoniae uniquely upregulated phenylalanine metabolism. This work elucidates the metabolic mechanisms underlying growth promotion of C. takaomontana mediated by F. paeoniae and B. minispora as well as deciphers potential pharmacologically active metabolites. These findings provide a foundation for strategically improving artificial cultivation and developing functional microbial inoculants. Full article

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis remain incurable. Current therapeutic strategies primarily focus on slowing disease progression, alleviating symptoms, and improving patients’ quality of life, including the management of comorbid conditions. Over the past few decades, the incidence of diagnosed neurodegenerative disorders has risen significantly. As the number of affected individuals continues to grow, so does the urgent need for effective treatments that can halt or mitigate the progression of these diseases. Among the most promising therapeutic resources are bioactive compounds derived from fungi. The high quality of proteins, polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, triterpenoids, sterols, and secondary metabolites found in fungi have attracted growing interest from researchers across multiple disciplines. One intensively studied direction involves the use of naturally occurring fungi-derived nutraceuticals in the treatment of various diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions. This article provides an overview of recent findings on fungal compounds—such as phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, peptides and proteins, and lipids—that may have potential applications in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and the alleviation of their symptoms. Full article

Background/Objectives: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance represents a critical global health threat, requiring the discovery of novel bioactive compounds. Fungi from Amazonian biodiversity are promising sources of secondary metabolites with potential antimicrobial activity. This study aimed to investigate the production of antimicrobial compounds by two Amazonian fungal strains using the OSMAC (One Strain–Many Compounds) approach. Methods: Two fungal strains, Talaromyces pinophilus CCM-UEA-F0414 and Penicillium paxilli CCM-UEA-F0591, were cultivated under five distinct culture media to modulate secondary metabolite production. Ethyl acetate extracts were prepared and evaluated for antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as pathogenic yeasts. Chemical characterization was performed using thin-layer chromatography (TLC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet–Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, and Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detection (uHPLC-DAD). Results: The extracts exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 78 to 5000 µg/mL. Chemical analyses revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, particularly caffeic and chlorogenic acids. Variations in the culture media substantially affected both the metabolite profiles and antimicrobial efficacy of the extracts. Conclusions: The OSMAC strategy effectively enhanced the metabolic diversity of the Amazonian fungal strains, leading to the production of bioactive metabolites with antimicrobial potential. These findings support the importance of optimizing culture conditions to unlock the biosynthetic capacity of Amazonian fungi as promising sources of antimicrobial agents. Full article