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Two fungal strains (K-2T and S1) were isolated from the deepest ocean sediment of the Challenger Deep located in the Mariana Trench. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene sequences of the isolates K-2T and S1 differed from those of closely related species, such as Talaromyces assiutensis and T. trachyspermus. Phylogenetic analyses based on single and concatenated alignments of the genes, namely ITS, β-tubulin (benA), calmodulin (cam), and the second-largest subunit fragment of the RNA polymerase II (rpb2) showed that the isolates K-2T and S1 were clustered together with other Talaromyces species, such as T. trachyspermus and T. assiutensis, as evidenced by the position on a terminal branch with high bootstrap support. They could also be distinguished from their closest relatives with valid published names via morphological and physiological characteristics, for example, growth at 4 °C–50 °C with a pH in the range of 1.5–12. Based on their phylogenetic, morphological, and physicochemical properties, the isolates K-2T and S1 represent a novel species in the genus Talaromyces, and the proposed name is Talaromyces sedimenticola sp. nov. The type strain is K-2T (= GDMCC 3.746T = JCM 39451T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High density polyethylene (HDPE) waste accumulation in the environment is one among the major threats faced globally for the last quarter of century. The current study deals with isolation, characterization and mycodegradation analysis of the HDPE strips by a potential fungus isolated from garbage dump yard. Based on morphological characterization, the isolated strain was identified and designated as Talaromyces liani strain JA2HS. Until now, there have been no reports of HDPE degradation using T. liani. The HDPE strips were subjected to degradation by the fungal isolate JA2HS for 90 days after optimization of growth and environmental parameters. The extent of degradation was confirmed by measuring the weight of the residual strip and the amount of CO2 evolution by Sturm test. A partial 72.7% degradation of the HDPE strip was observed, followed by the evolution of 18.5 g/L CO2. Enzyme studies were conducted to test the presence of ligninolytic enzymes (laccase, manganese peroxidase and lignin peroxidase) responsible for the biodegradation of the plastic strip. The fungal biomass estimation and hydrophobicity test were also performed. Mycodegradation analysis of the HDPE strip was further confirmed using analytical techniques such as FTIR, SEM, and AFM. This is the first study revealing the HDPE degradation using T. liani mediated by ligninolytic enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, nine endophytic fungi capable of producing multiple phenolic compounds were screened and identified from 152 fungi isolated from pigeon pea in a natural habitat (Honghe, Yunnan Province, China). Talaromyces neorugulosus R-209 exhibited the highest potential for phenolic compound production. L-phenylalanine feeding was used to enhance phenolic compound production in T. neorugulosus R-209 cultures. Under the optimal feeding conditions (l-phenylalanine dose of 0.16 g/L and feeding phase of 6 days), the yields of genistein, apigenin, biochanin A, and cajaninstilbene acid increased by 15.59-fold, 7.20-fold, 25.93-fold, and 10.30-fold over control, respectively. T. neorugulosus R-209 fed with l-phenylalanine was found to be stable in the production of phenolic compounds during ten successive subcultures. Moreover, bioactivities of extracts of T. neorugulosus R-209 cultures were significantly increased by l-phenylalanine feeding. Overall, l-phenylalanine feeding strategy made T. neorugulosus R-209 more attractive as a promising alternative source for the production of health-beneficial phenolic compounds in the nutraceutical/medicinal industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The persistence and ubiquity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the environment necessitate effective remediation strategies. Hence, this study investigated the potential of purified Laccases, TlFLU1L and TpFLU12L, from two indigenous fungi Trichoderma lixii FLU1 (TlFLU1) and Talaromyces pinophilus FLU12 (TpFLU12), respectively for the oxidation and detoxification of anthracene. Anthracene was degraded with vmax values of 3.51 ± 0.06 mg/L/h and 3.44 ± 0.06 mg/L/h, and Km values of 173.2 ± 0.06 mg/L and 73.3 ± 0.07 mg/L by TlFLU1L and TpFLU12L, respectively. The addition of a mediator compound 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) to the reaction system significantly increased the degradation of anthracene, with up to a 2.9-fold increase in vmax value and up to threefold decrease in Km values of TlFLU1L and TpFLU12L. The GC–MS analysis of the metabolites suggests that anthracene degradation follows one new pathway unique to the ABTS system—hydroxylation and carboxylation of C-1 and C-2 position of anthracene to form 3-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid, before undergoing dioxygenation and side chain removal to form chromone which was later converted into benzoic acid and CO2. This pathway contrasts with the common dioxygenation route observed in the free Laccase system, which is observed in the second degradation pathways. Furthermore, toxicity tests using V. parahaemolyticus and HT-22 cells, respectively, demonstrated the non-toxic nature of Laccase-ABTS-mediated metabolites. Intriguingly, analysis of the expression level of Alzheimer's related genes in HT-22 cells exposed to degradation products revealed no induction of neurotoxicity unlike untreated cells. These findings propose a paradigm shift for bioremediation by highlighting the Laccase-ABTS system as a promising green technology due to its efficiency with the discovery of a potentially less harmful degradation pathway, and the production of non-toxic metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has been widely used in the diagnosis of infectious diseases. However, studies on Talaromyces marneffei detection using mNGS remain scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the diagnostic performance of mNGS in T. marneffei. Methods: Between March 2021 and June 2023, patients who were discharged with a final diagnosis of talaromycosis, or confirmed T. marneffei infection by mNGS, culture or pathological examination were included in the study. Culture and mNGS were performed simultaneously for all patients. Clinical data were retrieved for analysis. Results: A total of 78 patients were enrolled, with 40 in the talaromycosis group and 38 in the suspected-talaromycosis group. In the talaromycosis group, mNGS showed a higher positivity rate(40/40, 100.0%) compared to culture(34/40, 85.0%)(P = 0.111). All patients in the suspected-talaromycosis group tested negative via culture, while mNGS yielded positive results. The T. marneffei reads in the talaromycosis group were significantly higher than in the suspected-talaromycosis group (4399 vs. 28, P < 0.001). In the suspected-talaromycosis group, of the four patients with low reads who did not receive antifungal therapy, one died and one lung lesion progressed; most patients(31/34, 91.2%) recovered after receiving appropriate antifungal therapy. Conclusion: mNGS proves to be a rapid and highly sensitive method for detecting T. marneffei. Higher reads of T. marneffei correspond to a higher likelihood of infection. However, cases with low reads necessitate a comprehensive approach, integrating clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, and imaging examinations to confirm T. marneffei infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Broad-spectrum biocatalysts enzymes, Laccases, have been implicated in the complete degradation of harmful pollutants into less-toxic compounds. In this study, two extracellularly produced Laccases were purified to homogeneity from two different Ascomycetes spp. Trichoderma lixii FLU1 (TlFLU1) and Talaromyces pinophilus FLU12 (TpFLU12). The purified enzymes are monomeric units, with a molecular mass of 44 kDa and 68.7 kDa for TlFLU1 and TpFLU12, respectively, on SDS-PAGE and zymogram. It reveals distinct properties beyond classic protein absorption at 270–280 nm, with TlFLU1's peak at 270 nm aligning with this typical range of type II Cu site (white Laccase), while TpFLU12's unique 600 nm peak signifies a type I Cu2+ site (blue Laccase), highlighting the diverse spectral fingerprints within the Laccase family. The Km and kcat values revealed that ABTS is the most suitable substrate as compared to 2,6-dimethoxyphenol, caffeic acid and guaiacol for both Laccases. The bioinformatics analysis revealed critical His, Ile, and Arg residues for copper binding at active sites, deviating from the traditional two His and a Cys motif in some Laccases. The predicted biological functions of the Laccases include oxidation–reduction, lignin metabolism, cellular metal ion homeostasis, phenylpropanoid catabolism, aromatic compound metabolism, cellulose metabolism, and biological adhesion. Additionally, investigation of degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by purified Laccases show significant reductions in residual concentrations of fluoranthene and anthracene after a 96-h incubation period. TlFLU1 Laccase achieved 39.0% and 44.9% transformation of fluoranthene and anthracene, respectively, while TpFLU12 Laccase achieved 47.2% and 50.0% transformation, respectively. The enzyme structure–function relationship study provided insights into the catalytic mechanism of these Laccases for possible biotechnological and industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of more efficient, clean, secure, and competitive energy supply is necessary to align with the needs of sustainable devices. For this reason, a study for developing innovative dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) based on microbial pigments is reported starting from Talaromyces atroroseus GH2. The fungus was cultivated by fermentation and the extracellular pigment extract was characterized by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS analyses. The most abundant compound among the 22 azaphilone-type pigments identified was represented by PP-O. The device's behavior was investigated in relation to electrolyte and pH for verifying the stability on time and the photovoltaic performance. Devices obtained were characterized by UV–vis measurements to verify the absorbance intensity and transmittance percentage. Moreover, photovoltaic parameters through photo-electrochemical measurements (I–V curves) and impedance characteristics by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) were determined. The best microbial device showed a short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 0.69 mA/cm2, an open-circuit photo-voltage (Voc) of 0.27 V and a Fill Factor (FF) of 0.60. Furthermore, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the device was 0.11%. Thus, the present study demonstrated the potential of microbial origin pigments for developing DSSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Kandi zone of Punjab, India, root and rhizospheric soil samples were collected from the local vegetation near the Shivalik mountain foothills. Fifteen fungal colonies exhibiting distinct cultural morphology on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) plates were selected for plant–microbe interaction studies. Among these, the isolate HNB9 was identified as a nonpathogenic root colonizer. Morphological and molecular analyses confirmed HNB9 as Talaromyces albobiverticillius, characterized by the secretion of a red pigment as a secondary metabolite. Plants colonized with T. albobiverticillius HNB9 exhibited enhanced growth, manifesting in increased shoot and root length compared to untreated controls. This study unveiled the first evidence that a species from the Talaromyces genus, specifically T. albobiverticillius, possesses dual capabilities of root colonization and plant growth promotion. Moreover, HNB9 demonstrated the production of plant growth-regulating compounds like Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) and proficient solubilization of crucial nutrients (Phosphorous, Zinc, and Silica) through plate culture methods. This finding represents a significant contribution to the understanding of root-colonizing fungi with plant growth-promoting attributes, challenging the existing knowledge gap within the Talaromyces genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruitlet core rot (FCR) is a worldwide fungal disease of pineapple, which occasionally occurs on susceptible cultivars in Taiwan. This study describes the fungal pathogens of FCR and their occurrence in Taiwan for the first time. A total of 51 fungal isolates were obtained from diseased fruitlets and blossom cups of 'TN20', a susceptible cultivar planted in Taiwan. These isolates were identified as the Talaromyces species T. amestolkiae, T. funiculosus, and T. stollii and Fusarium species F. ananatum, F. oxysporum, and F. annulatum based on phylogenetic analyses. All of them have been described as FCR pathogens in other countries, if considering that F. annulatum has often been misidentified as F. proliferatum. To facilitate identification, four pairs of species-specific primers were developed, which enabled rapid identification of T. amestolkiae, T. funiculosus, and T. stollii by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and F. ananatum by PCR. Two types of diseased fruitlets, "wet" and "dry", were observed on 'TN20', and T. amestolkiae, T. funiculosus, T. stollii, and F. ananatum could be isolated from both types. In addition, Talaromyces and Fusarium species were isolated from blossom cups at high frequencies, but few fungi were isolated from healthy tissues. The specific primers designed in this study could provide a useful tool to study FCR in the future, and the findings could provide a better understanding of the ecology and epidemiology of FCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diversity, composition, and abundance of soil fungi from three sacred groves in Kerala, namely Iringole kavu of Ernakulam District, Kollakal Thapovanam of Alappuzha District, and Poyilkavu of Kozhikode District were analysed using Metagenomics analysis and Illumina sequencing. A total of 30,584, 78,323, and 55,640 reads were obtained from these groves, respectively. Ascomycota constitutes over 96% of the total fungi, making it the most abundant phylum, followed by Mortierellomycota, Basidiomycota, Chytridiomycota, and Rozellomycota. These phyla were subdivided into 20 classes, 40 orders, 83 families, 119 genera, and 135 species, while 1269 OTUs remained unidentified at the species level. Eurotiomycetes predominates the class, while the genus Talaromyces from the family Trichomaceae dominates the genera. Neocarmospora falciformis, Trichoderma lixii, and Candida ethanolic are the most abundant fungal species. Diversity analysis shows that Kollakal Thapovanam is rich in fungal species, while Poyilkavu is rich in biodiversity, with a high degree of dominance. Several species were found only in a particular grove and were absent in others and vice-versa, indicating high fungal specificity. Therefore, fungi have to be preserved in their original habitat. The Principal Coordinate Analysis revealed that each grove is distinct highlighting the importance of preserving the unique diversity of each sacred grove. In conclusion, this research provides valuable information about the soil fungal genera in their natural habitat. It emphasizes the need for more systematic research to understand the actual diversity and ecological role of fungi in sacred groves. This study is the first of its kind to analyse and compare soil fungal diversity in sacred groves using the metagenomics approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Talaromyces marneffei (T. marneffei) immune escape is essential in the pathogenesis of talaromycosis. It is currently known that T. marneffei achieves immune escape through various strategies. However, the role of cellular alternative splicing (AS) in immune escape remains unclear. Here, we depict the AS landscape in macrophages upon T. marneffei infection via high-throughput RNA sequencing and detect a truncated protein of NCOR2 / SMRT, named NCOR2-013, which is significantly upregulated after T. marneffei infection. Mechanistic analysis indicates that NCOR2-013 forms a co-repression complex with TBL1XR1 / TBLR1 and HDAC3, thereby inhibiting JunB-mediated transcriptional activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines via the inhibition of histone acetylation. Furthermore, we identify TUT1 as the AS regulator that regulates NCOR2-013 production and promotes T. marneffei immune evasion. Collectively, these findings indicate that T. marneffei escapes macrophage killing through TUT1-mediated alternative splicing of NCOR2 / SMRT, providing insight into the molecular mechanisms of T. marneffei immune evasion and potential targets for talaromycosis therapy. The study explores immune evasion mechanisms of T. marneffei infection, highlighting the role of alternative splicing (AS). T. marneffei triggers the upregulation of NCOR2-013, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine production via histone acetylation. TUT1 regulates NCOR2-013, contributing to immune evasion. This sheds light on T. marneffei's immune evasion at the molecular level, offering potential talaromycosis therapy targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Anti-interferon gamma antibody (AIGA) is a rare cause of adult onset immunodeficiency, leading to severe disseminated opportunistic infections with varying outcomes. We aimed to summarize the disease characteristics and to explore factors associated with disease outcome. Methods: A systematic literature review of AIGA associated disease was conducted. Serum-positive cases with detailed clinical presentations, treatment protocols, and outcomes were included. The patients were categorized into controlled and uncontrolled groups based on their documented clinical outcome. Factors associated with disease outcome were analyzed with logistic regression models. Results: A total of 195 AIGA patients were retrospectively analyzed, with 119(61.0%) having controlled disease and 76 (39.0%) having uncontrolled disease. The median time to diagnosis and disease course were 12 months and 28 months, respectively. A total of 358 pathogens have been reported with nontubercular mycobacterium (NTM) and Talaromyces marneffei as the most common pathogens. The recurrence rate was as high as 56.0%. The effective rates of antibiotics alone, antibiotics with rituximab, and antibiotics with cyclophosphamide were 40.5%, 73.5%, and 75%, respectively. In the multivariate logistic analysis, skin involvement, NTM infection, and recurrent infections remained significantly associated with disease control, with ORs of 3.25 (95% CI 1.187 ~ 8.909, P value = 0.022), 4.74 (95% CI 1.300 ~ 17.30, P value = 0.018), and 0.22 (95% CI 0.086 ~ 0.551, P value = 0.001), respectively. The patients with disease control had significant AIGA titer reduction. Conclusions: AIGA could cause severe opportunistic infections with unsatisfactory control, particularly in patients with recurrent infections. Efforts should be made to closely monitor the disease and regulate the immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a previous study on microfungi associated with clematis roots, Penicillium-like fungi were isolated and identified based on morphology. In this study, we subjected those strains to a detailed examination which led to the proposal of two taxonomic novelties, named Rasamsonia chlamydospora and Talaromyces clematidis. The first taxon is characterized by rough-walled mycelium, acerose to flask shaped phialides, cylindrical conidia and by production of chlamydospore-like structures. The four-loci-based phylogeny analysis delineated the taxon as a taxonomic novelty in Rasamsonia. Talaromyces clematidis is characterized by restricted growth on Czapek yeast extract agar, dichloran 18% glycerol agar and yeast extract sucrose agar, and production of yellow ascomata on oatmeal agar. Phylogenetic analyses placed this taxon as a taxonomic novelty in Talaromyces sect. Bacillispori. Both taxa are introduced here with detailed descriptions, photoplates and information on their phylogenetic relationship with related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Talaromyces marneffei is a human fungal pathogen that causes endemic opportunistic infections, especially in Southeast Asia. The key virulence factors of T. marneffei are the ability to survive host-derived heat and oxidative stress, and the ability to convert morphology from environmental mold to fission yeast forms during infection. Glutathione metabolism plays an essential role in stress response and cellular development in multiple organisms. However, the role of the glutathione system in T. marneffei is elusive. Here, we identified the genes encoding principal enzymes associated with glutathione metabolism in T. marneffei, including glutathione biosynthetic enzymes (Gcs1 and Gcs2), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx1), glutathione reductase (Glr1), and a family of glutathione S-transferase (Gst). Sequence homology search revealed an extended family of the TmGst proteins, consisting of 20 TmGsts that could be divided into several classes. Expression analysis revealed that cells in conidia, mold, and yeast phases exhibited distinct expression profiles of glutathione-related genes. Also, TmGst genes were highly upregulated in response to hydrogen peroxide and xenobiotic exposure. Altogether, our findings suggest that T. marneffei transcriptionally regulates the glutathione genes under stress conditions in a cell-type-specific manner. This study could aid in understanding the role of glutathione in thermal-induced dimorphism and stress response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the taxonomic structure of the fungal community during the processing of cow manure with straw using Eisenia fetida worms have been studied using fundamentally different methods—cultural and metabarcoding (by amplification and high-performance sequencing of ITS2 rDNA). Significantly more fungal taxa have been identified in substrates and vermicompost using metabarcoding than by the plating method (66 and 33 species, respectively). Single species have been identified simultaneously by both methods. The method of metabarcoding has revealed the operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Mortierellomycota, Chytridiomycota, Glomeromycota, Basidiobolomycota, Rozellomycota, and Aphelidiomycota; fungi from Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Mucoromycota were isolated by the culture method. The species richness of the community decreased during the first 10–20 days of substrate processing, then grew and reached maximum values in the vermicompost (60 days). Both methods showed the dominance of ascomycetes at all stages of transformation of substrates by E. fetida. Metabarcoding showed the dominance of Sordariomycetes of the order Sordariales (48–53%), mainly Zopfiella spp., and the fungi of the orders Pezizales, Microascales, Hypocreales, Pleosporales, Chaetothyriales, Onygenales, and Eurotiales had the representation at the level of several percents. The increase in the portion of Chytridiomycota in the community (from 1.1 to 3.2%) was observed during vermicomposting. At the same time, the representation of fungi of Mortierellomycota (5.7 to 1.5%) of genus Mortierella and Basidiomycota (from 8 and 21 to 3%) decreased with an increase in their diversity. Among basidiomycetes, Coprinellus marculentus, Coprinellus subdisseminatus, Coprinus annuloporus, and Occultifur sp. prevailed. According to the plating method, ascomycetes also prevailed during waste processing and in the vermicompost, but it was other species: Diplodascus geotrichum; genera Penicillium, Aspergillus, Talaromyces, Trichoderma, and Fusarium; mucoromycetes of the genus Mucor; and basidiomycetes (Filobasidium wieringae). Fungi capable of the decomposition of various polymer compounds in waste, active destructors of lignocellulose, have been identified. Coprophiles, keratinophiles, and thermophilic and thermotolerant species, representatives of the genera Trichoderma and Penicillium, capable of determining the suppressive properties of vermicompost to phytopathogens and human pathogens, have been found. The differences in mycobiota during the composting and vermicomposting of various wastes are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal colorants are gradually entering the global color market, given their advantages of being less harmful to human health, as well as having greater stability and biotechnological potential, compared to other natural sources. The present work concerns the isolation and identification of an endophytic filamentous fungus, together with the chemical characterization and assessment of the fluorescence, toxicity, stability, and application potential of its synthesized red colorant. The endophytic fungus was isolated from Hymenaea courbaril, a tree from the Brazilian savannah, and was identified as Talaromyces minnesotensis by phenotypic and genotypic characterization. Submerged cultivation of the fungus resulted in the production of approximately 12 AU500 of a red biocolorant which according to LC-DAD-MS analysis is characterized by being a complex mixture of molecules of the azaphilone class. Regarding cytotoxicity assays, activity against human hepatoblastoma (HepG2) cells was only observed at concentrations above 5.0 g L−1, while antimicrobial effects against pathogenic bacteria and yeast occurred at concentrations above 50.0 g L−1. The biocolorant showed high stability at neutral pH values and low temperatures (10 to 20 °C) and high half-life values (t1/2), which indicates potential versatility for application in different matrices, as observed in tests using detergent, gelatin, enamel, paint, and fabrics. The results demonstrated that the biocolorant synthesized by Talaromyces minnesotensis has potential for future biotechnological applications. Key Points: • An endophytic fungus, which was isolated and identified, synthesize a red colorant. • The colorant showed fluorescence property, low toxicity, and application potential. • The red biocolorant was highly stable at pH 8.0 and temperatures below 20°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Gentiana scabra Bunge (gentian) is one of the best-known traditional Chinese medicinal plants and its dry roots and rhizomes are usually used as medicine. To our knowledge, the main active metabolites of gentian, such as gentian polysaccharide and gentiopicroside, determine the quality and pharmaceutical effect of gentian. The root-derived fungi including endophytic fungi and rhizosphere fungi are key factors which affect the secondary metabolism and the utilization of soil nutrients of gentian. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the characteristics and dynamics of root-derived fungi related to gentian, as well as their relationships with the quality of gentian. Methods: The population, diversity, and the dominant type of endophytic and rhizosphere fungi in gentian were determined by using ITS rRNA gene amplicon and sequencing methods. The potential influences of different habitats on fungi communities and the correlation between fungi communities, the main active metabolites of gentian and soil physicochemical properties were analyzed by statistical methods. Results: The population and diversity of endophytic and rhizosphere fungi varied with both habitats and growth stages, showing a significant difference. Among them, the predominant genera of endophytic fungi were Lecidella, Leptoshaeria and unclassified_p_Ascomycota with the relative abundance of 35.1%, 9.0% and 7.3%, respectively, while the predominant genera of rhizosphere fungi were complicated. Compared to endophytic fungi, the diversity of rhizosphere fungi was obviously affected by soil physicochemical properties, including pH, water content, alkali hydrolysis nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), etc. Additionally, we found that the accumulation of gentiopicroside was positively correlated with endophytic fungi of Epicoccum and rhizosphere fungi of Mortierella, Solicoccozyma, Talaromyces and Trichoderma. The accumulation of gentian polysaccharide was negatively correlated with endophytic fungi of Lenzites, Mucor, Myrothecium and Saccharomycopsis and rhizosphere fungi, such as Botrytis, Cadophora, Cladophora, Didymela, Fusarium, etc. Conclusions: In this work, the differences on population, diversity, and the dominant type of endophytic fungi and rhizosphere fungi in gentian were revealed. The relationship between the main active metabolites of gentian and root-derived fungi, and the relationship between soil physicochemical properties and root-derived fungi were clarified, respectively. It is believed that our work will guide to explore strategies on improving the quality of gentian by regulating soil factors and root-derived microbial community structure with microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The SP 1 sp H NMR, SP 13 sp C NMR, and mass spectra data match those reported in the literature [[12]]. The SP 1 sp H NMR, SP 13 sp C NMR, and mass spectra data match those reported in the literature [[14]]. The SP 1 sp H NMR, SP 13 sp C NMR, and mass spectra data match those reported in the literature [[8]]. In total, 14 compounds were successfully isolated and structurally characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectra. [Extracted from the article]

A new prenylated indole alkaloid 11, 17-epi-mangrovamide A (1), a new natural occurring product, 1,7-dihydroxy-6-methyl-8-hydroxymethyl-xanthone (2), two known alkaloids, mangrovamide A (3) and mangrovamide G (4), and four known polyketide derivatives (5–8) were isolated and identified from the cold-seep sediment derived fungal strain Talaromyces funiculosus SD-523. Their structures were elucidated by combination of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HRESIMS), quantum chemical electronic circular dichroism (ECD), and DP4+ probability analysis as well as by comparison of the data with literature reports. All isolated compounds were tested for antibacterial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic fungi live inside plant tissues but do not cause any disease. Several reports have now revealed that they have great influence on host. In this study, the beneficial role of endophytic fungi is highlighted and explored. Endophytic fungi isolated from healthy plants were identified as Aspergillus terreus, Curvularia lunata, C. hawaiiensis, Macrophomina phaseolina, Fusarium solani, Talaromyces assiutensis, and T. trachyspermus using 18S rRNA gene sequencing. In vitro, fungi evaluated for antimicrobial activity, showed significant activity. These fungi were tested in field application by exploring their broad spectrum. Talaromyces assiutensis and T. trachyspermus were applied in pots and field plot experiments using sunflower as test plants, along with endophytic Cephalosporium sp., and Chaetomium sp. Endophytic fungi showed significant activity against root rot pathogens affecting sunflower and improved plant biomass. They also improved production of plant defense biochemical markers (polyphenolic content and salicylic acid) with improvement in antioxidant potential. These fungi are used as biological control agents, so their culture filtrates are used to check the presence of metabolites by GC–MS. Several new compounds were isolated from T. assiutensis. The major bioactive compounds are Coumarin, 3,4-dihydro-6-methoxy-4,4-dimethyl, 1-Monolinoleoylglycerol trimethylsilyl ether, 1,2-Propanediol, 3-(octadecyloxy), Ethyl iso-allocholate, and 1H-Pyrazole, which possess antioxidant, antitumor, antibacterial, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties. These findings will lead to further in-depth research toward the potential use of these endophytic fungi for their possible use in agriculture and drug formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal deterioration is one of the major factors that significantly contribute to mummy cartonnage damage. Isolation and molecular identification of thirteen fungal species contributing to the deterioration of ancient Egyptian mummy cartonnage located in El-Lahun regions, Fayoum government, Egypt was performed. The most dominant deteriorated fungal species are Aspergillus flavus (25.70%), Aspergillus terreus (16.76%), followed by A. niger (13.97%). A newly synthesized series of tetrahydro-[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-a]isoquinoline chalcone derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their antifungal activities in vitro against the isolated deteriorated fungal species (Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. terreus, Athelia bombacina, Aureobasidium iranianum, Byssochlamys spectabilis, Cladosporium cladosporioides, C. ramotenellum, Penicillium crustosum, P. polonicum, Talaromyces atroroseus, T. minioluteus and T. purpureogenus). The most efficient chalcone derivatives are new chalcone derivative numbers 9 with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranging from 1 to 3 mg/mL followed by chalcone derivatives number 5 with MIC ranging from 1 to 4 mg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microscopic fungi form and excrete numerous and diverse secondary metabolites, including pigments of various colors, which may be used as an alternative to chemical and plant colorants used in industry. Azaphilone compounds, first discovered in fungi of the genus Monascus, are among the promising classes of fungal pigments. The review analyzes the publications on formation of azaphilone-type pigments in Monascus fungi, as well as in Talaromyces and Aspergillus cavernicola. Brief information is provided concerning the antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic activities of azaphilone pigments. Possible strategies for increasing the efficiency of the production process and directed synthesis of yellow, orange, and red pigments and their derivatives are discussed. In general, the review provides for assessment of the role of azaphilone pigments, as well as of the prospects and ways to expand their production for use as natural dyes in various fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indoor fungi obtain carbon sources from natural sources and even recalcitrant biodegradable materials, such as plastics and synthetic dye. Their vigorous activity may have negative consequences, such as structural damage to building materials or the destruction of precious cultural materials. The animal specimen room of the Seoul National University stocked 36,000 animal resources that had been well-maintained for over 80 years. Due to abandonment without the management of temperature and humidity during the rainy summer season, many stuffed animal specimens had been heavily colonized by fungi. To investigate the fungal species responsible for the destruction of the historical specimens, we isolated fungi from the stuffed animal specimens and identified them at the species level based on morphology and molecular analysis of the β-tubulin (BenA) gene. A total of 365 strains were isolated and identified as 26 species in Aspergillus (10 spp.), Penicillium (14 spp.), and Talaromyces (2 spp.). Penicillium brocae and Aspergillus sydowii were isolated from most sections of the animal specimens and have damaged the feathers and beaks of valuable specimens. Our findings indicate that within a week of mismanagement, it takes only a few fungal species to wipe out the decades of history of animal diversity. The important lesson here is to prevent this catastrophe from occurring again through a continued interest, not to put all previous efforts to waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the mechanism of Phanerochaete chrysosporium (P. chrysosporium) inoculation driving the humification process of maize straw composting, the treatments without P. chrysosporium inoculation (T1) and that with P. chrysosporium inoculation (T2) were carried out separately during the secondary fermentation of the co-composting of maize straw and rapeseed cake. The key microorganisms were determined by evaluating the succession of the fungal community and its relationship with humification process parameters. The results showed that P. chrysosporium inoculation (T2) reduced fungal diversity but increased the relative abundance of Coprinopsis and Talaromyces. At the end of the composting (day 36), the relative abundance of Talaromyces and Coprinopsis in T2 increased by 1223.7% and 30.2%, respectively, compared with T1. Combined CCA and SEMs analyses demonstrated the microbially driven mechanisms that enhance the humification process of composting, that is, P. chrysosporium inoculation promoted lignin continuous degradation by promoting the relative abundance of Talaromyces and Coprinopsis during the secondary fermentation of composting; meanwhile, P. Chrysosporium inoculation further intensified the biological process of humification in composting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physcion is an anthraquinone compound observed dominantly in medicinal herbs. This anthraquinone possesses a variety of pharmaceutically important activities and has been developed to be a widely used antifungal biopesticide. Herein, we report on the effective preparation of 3R-torosachrysone (4), a tetrahydroanthracene precursor of physcion, in Aspergillus oryzae NSAR1 by heterologous expression of related genes mined from the phlegmacins-producing ascomycete Talaromyces sp. F08Z-0631. Conditions for converting 4 into physcion were studied and optimized, leading to the development of a concise approach for extracting high-purity physcion from the alkali-treated fermentation broth of the 4-producing A. oryzae strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) mycovirus was isolated from Talaromyces neofusisporus isolate HJ1-6 and named "Talaromyces neofusisporus chrysovirus 1" (TnCV1). It was found to consist of four dsRNA segments (TnCV1-1, TnCV1-2, TnCV1-3, and TnCV1-4) with lengths of 3595 bp, 3063 bp, 3054 bp, and 2876 bp, respectively. Sequence analysis showed that TnCV1-1 contains an open reading frame (ORF) encoding a putative RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of 1136 amino acids (aa), TnCV1-2 contains an ORF encoding a hypothetical protein of 906 aa, TnCV1-3 contains an ORF encoding a putative capsid protein (CP) of 938 aa, and TnCV1-4 contains an ORF encoding a hypothetical protein of 849 aa. The 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of TnCV1-1, TnCV1-2, TnCV1-3, and TnCV1-4 showed a high degree of sequence similarity to each other. Phylogenetic analysis based on RdRp sequences suggested that TnCV1 is a new member of the genus Alphachrysovirus in the family Chrysoviridae. This is the first chrysovirus isolated from T. neofusisporus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat bran hydrolysate (WBH) in combination with carbon and nitrogen was utilized as substrate for pigment production by Talaromyces purpureogenus CFRM02. Pigment yield was significantly increased (≈threefold: OD units and ≈twofold: redness [a* value]) by xylose supplementation with WBH compared to other carbon sources, whereas 1% xylose supplementation increased pigment production (1.57 ± 0.05 OD units and 49 ± 1.62 a* value). Pigment yield was low when WBH supplemented with 0.3% nitrogen sources. However, significant increase (≈2–2.5 fold, OD units and a* value) was observed, when yeast extract (1.2%), nitrate of sodium (1.2%) and potassium (1.6%) were supplemented. Accordingly, 16 WBH media were designed by supplementing carbon and nitrogen. Interestingly, the pigment production was significantly increased (1.59 OD units and 32 a* value) in the medium supplemented with 4% carbon and 0.9–1.2% nitrogen. T. purpureogenus CFRM02 was able to co-utilize xylose, fructose and glucose in WBH medium. The CIE Lab values indicated that pigment characteristics differed significantly among the media. Apparently, T. purpureogenus CFRM02 possesses alternative gene(s) or pathway(s) for xylose metabolism and channelled towards pigment biosynthesis. Comparative results revealed that 1% xylose supplementation to WBH makes the fermentation process economically competitive for pigment production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One new natural alkaloid, chaetominine B (1), together with twenty known compounds was isolated from the South China Sea cold-seep-derived fungus Talaromyces helicus SCSIO41311. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS) and ECD calculation, as well as comparing with previous literatures. Among them, twelve compounds showed potent NO inhibitory activities and two of them, azaspirofurans A (13) and fumiquinones B (21), exhibited NO inhibitory effects more than the positive control eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) with IC50 values of 9.65 and 15.54 μM, respectively. Moreover, compound 13 attenuated LPS-induced imbalance of cytokines release such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, and IL-10. Additionally, the NMR data and absolute configuration of compound 20 were first reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lichens are used in folklore medicines across the globe for wound healing and to treat skin disorders and respiratory diseases. They are an intricate symbiosis between fungi and algae with the domination of fungal counterparts. Recent research studies pointed out that yeast is a third major partner in lichens. Endolichenic fungi (ELF) are also a part of this complex miniature ecosystem. The highly competitive environment of lichens compels ELF to produce toxic metabolites which are comparatively less explored for their chemical diversity and use. Here, we investigated 31 ELF isolated from 32 lichens found on mangrove plants at Puttalam Lagoon of Sri Lanka to find cytotoxic molecules by applying LC-UV-HRMS analysis and in vitro bioassays. The studies resulted in the identification of three potent cytotoxic molecules from endolichenic fungi Talaromyces pinophilus isolated from host lichen Porina tetracerae. The ethyl acetate extract of this fungus showed moderate cytotoxicity against the breast cancer cell line. Chemical characterization of ethyl acetate extract of T. pinophilus produced peniazaphilin B, 152G256α-1, and ES-242-3. The structures of these molecules were confirmed by NMR and MS data. We are reporting ES-242-3 for the first time from the genus Talaromyces and peniazaphilin B and 152G256α-1 from T. pinophilus. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their anticancer potential against breast, oral and cervical cancer cell lines. Compound 152G256α-1 showed potent cytotoxicity against oral cancer (CAL-27 cell line) with an IC50 value of 2.96 ± 0.17 µM while ES-242-3 showed the best activity against breast cancer (MCF-7 cell line) and cervical cancer (HeLa cell line) with IC50 value 14.08 ± 0.2 µM and 4.46 ± 0.05 µM respectively. An in-silico analysis was carried out to predict the mechanism of in-vitro activity, drug likeliness, and pharmacokinetic profile of the isolated compounds. The study confirms the potential of ELF T. pinophilus to produce diverse bioactive scaffolds and encourages the researchers to further explore the fungus and its metabolites with newer technologies to produce potent anticancer leads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial pigments have been widely applied to printing in food, textile, and paper industries as a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes. Herein, we isolated a novel Talaromyces aurantiacus strain with a strong ability to produce red pigments. We further studied pigment production conditions, stability, screen printing application, and bioactivities. Our results showed that sucrose was a favourable carbon source and the addition of l-histidine significantly enhanced the production of red pigments. Pigment production was strictly photo-regulated with effective wavelengths around 450 nm (blue light). We mixed the red pigments with cellulosic materials and explored their application potentials for screen printing on paper, cotton fabrics, and polymeric carriers. The printing density was significantly improved from 0.3 to 0.7 by overlay printing. T. aurantiacus pigments could be stably stored at pH 5–11, temperature – 10 to 70 °C, and redox potential − 200 to 300 mV. Moreover, the stable ranges were extended to pH 1–11 and temperature over 100 °C after screen-printed on paper. The red pigments exhibited antioxidant activity towards 2,2'-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (IC50 10.4 mg L−1 in solution). Our results further indicated the red pigments by T. aurantiacus was environmentally friendly based on acetylcholinesterase activity assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the clinical features and screened for predictive factors of anti-interferon-γ autoantibody (AIGA) positivity. We enrolled 63 AIGA-positive (group 1) and 29 AIGA-negative (group 2) HIV-negative patients. White blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP), globulin, immunoglobulin (Ig) G, and IgM levels were higher, whereas CD4+T cell count and hemoglobin level were lower in group 1 than in group 2. Co-infections, multiple infections, and disseminated infections were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2. Prognosis was worse in group 1 than in group 2, especially for relapse and persistent infections. The number of infecting pathogens and sites involved; WBC and neutrophil counts; globulin, IgG, IgM, and CRP levels; and ESR were significantly positively correlated with AIGA titers; however, CD4+T cell count was significantly negatively correlated with AIGA titers. Therefore, IgG, globulin, and CRP levels; CD4+T cell and WBC counts; the number of infecting pathogens and sites involved; and ESR were considered potential predictors for AIGA positivity. For HIV-negative hosts with double or multiple opportunistic, disseminated infections and high serum IgG and globulin levels, low CD4+T cell count, and an increase in inflammatory marker levels, positive AIGA-associated immunodeficiency should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new 2-benzopyran-1,3-dione, talaromycone A (1), was isolated from Talaromyces wortmannii LGT-4, an endophytic fungus of Tripterygium wilfordii. The structure of 1 was elucidated by IR, MS, and 1D and 2D NMR spectra and comparison of the experimental and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3Kα) inhibitory activities of 1 was also tested. The compound did not show good biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the last decade, enormous research efforts have been directed at identifying potent microorganisms as sustainable green cell factories for eco-friendly pigments. Talaromyces atroroseus has recently been shown to excrete large amounts of azaphilone mycotoxin-free red pigment mixture comprising some known coloring components together with many uncharacterized metabolites. In this study, a new Talaromyces atroroseus isolate was identified via sequencing of the fragment of the nuclear ribosomal gene cluster containing internal transcribed spacers and 5.8S rRNA gene. The parameters that affected the level of pigment production were optimized in uncommon static conditions of culture and genetic improvement, via γ-irradiation, to improve pigment yield. Moreover, chemical characterization using LC/MS and skin safety test of the target pigment mixture were precisely conducted to maximize its benefits as a natural and safe red pigment for wool fabrics. Results: Molecular identification via the sequencing of the ITS of the rDNA encoding gene cluster revealed that the fungal isolate TRP-NRC was T. atroroseus TRP-NRC (deposited in GenBank under accession number MW282329). In the static conditions of culture, pigment production was dramatically enhanced to 27.36 g/L in an optimum yeast malt peptone medium of 2% mannitol at pH 2−4.5 and 30 °C for 7 days of incubation. Under exposure to a 400-Gy γ-radiation dose, pigment yield was increased to a 3-fold level higher than that recorded for the wild type. Based on the inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSR), as a molecular marker tool, the wild-type T. atroroseus TRP-NRC strain and its mutants were discriminated. The UHPLC/HRESI-MS analytical tool characterized 60 metabolites, including many unknown molecules, at appropriate concentrations. It is worthy to note that four mitorubrin derivatives were identified for the first time in T. atroroseus, i.e., mitorubrinolamine acetate, dihydro-PP-O, mitorobrinal, and mitorubrinol. The range of irritation indexes (0−0.1) demonstrated an adequate skin safety after the direct local application of the pigment mixture. Finally, the pigment mixture exhibited a remarkably good dyeing ability in wool fabrics, with high-fastness properties. Conclusions: Because of its sustainable and economic production, the target red pigment mixture may be applied in the future in textile, food, cosmetics, or different pharmaceutical industries after extensive conventional safety and toxicity studies, which are currently under consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new meroterpenoid, taladrimanin A (1), was isolated from a marine-derived fungus Talaromyces sp. HM6-1–1, together with eleven biogenetically related compounds (2–12). A plausible biosynthetic pathway for the meroterpenoids (1–4) was proposed. The planar structure of 1 was assigned by HRESIMS and NMR. Its relative configuration was established by quantum chemical NMR calculation of two possible isomers and analyzed by DP4 + method. Finally, X-ray diffraction unambiguously confirmed the relative configuration and revealed the absolute configuration of compound 1. 2–12 were assigned by comparing their NMR data with those reported in the literature. 1 was the first drimane-type meroterpenoid with a C10 polyketide unit bearing an 8R-configuration. In the bioactive assay, 1 exhibited antitumor activity against gastric cancer cells MGC803 and MKN28; it also inhibited the colony formation and induced apoptosis in MGC803 cells both in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, 1 displayed selective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus 6538P, and low activities towards strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Escherichia coli in this study. Key points: • Twelve compounds were obtained from Talaromyces sp., including four meroterpenoids, one of which was new. • The new compound taladrimanin A (1) inhibits the growth of gastric cancer cells MGC803 and MKN28 as well as the pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus 6538P. • The biosynthetic pathway of the meroterpenoids was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral vasculitis is a long-standing but flourishing and fadeless research topic. Infections are a frequent cause of cerebral vasculitis, vital to diagnose due to involvement of specific anti-infection treatments. A 65-year-old man visited the hospital for his neurological symptoms without obvious inducements. After admission, radiological examination and comprehensive conventional microbiological tests (CMTs) revealed suspected intracranial infectious vasculitis. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction further confirmed that his cerebral vasculitis was caused by Talaromyces marneffei (T. marneffei) and Aspergillus niger (A. niger) co-infection. The patient's final diagnosis changed from initial herpetic encephalitis, due to the past history of cephalosome and facial herpes and non-significant antiviral therapeutic effects, to fungal cerebral vasculitis. The patient was discharged after use of targeted antifungal therapies on day 18 of his admission, and his associated symptoms disappeared completely at follow-up 3 weeks later. We first illustrated the presence of uncommon cerebral vasculitis caused by T. marneffei and A. niger in a human immunodeficiency virus-positive patient. In clinically suspected patients with infectious cerebral vasculitis, mNGS should be performed to detect potential pathogens if CMTs may not provide useful pathogenic clues, highlighting the importance of mNGS in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, natural pigments are gaining attention as an alternative to synthetic colouring agents for food and non-food related applications. To this end, a natural, red coloured, and water-soluble extracellular pigment was generated from Talaromyces purpurogenus. The colour profile of the pigment was estimated at different concentrations, and the thermal degradation kinetics were modelled using the Arrhenius, Ball, and second-order kinetic models, showing a correlation between the rate of pigment degradation and an increase in temperature. The half-life of the pigment decreased as the temperature was increased from 30 to 90 °C, and the kinetics were adequately represented by the studied models. The pigment was more susceptible to degradation at lower pH values, exhibiting an inverse correlation between rate of decay and pH values, for thermal treatment at 70 and 90 °C. In the studied pH range, the maximum half-life and decimal reduction time were observed at pH 8. The non-thermal degradation was ultraviolet (UV)-dosage dependent, with half-lives decreasing with increase in intensity of radiation. For UV-A degradation kinetics, the rate constant (k) values obtained using the first-order and Weibull kinetic models were consistent, whereas such k values differed for UV-C irradiation. An extracellular pigment–E. coli model was used to ascertain the effect of pigment concentration on UV sterilisation. The photoprotective effect was found to be concentration dependent, with time required for half-cell death increasing with an increase in pigment concentration. The pigment was found to be compatible with commonly used thermal and non-thermal processing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease and the fourth leading cause of death after cardiovascular disease, tumors, and stroke. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors, which are based on cholinergic damage, remain the mainstream drugs to alleviate AD-related symptoms. This study aimed to explore novel AChE inhibitors produced by the endophytic fungus FL15 from Huperzia serrata. The fungus was identified as Talaromyces aurantiacus FL15 according to its morphological characteristics and ITS, 18S rDNA, and 28S rDNA sequence analysis. Subsequently, seven natural metabolites were isolated from strain FL15, and identified as asterric acid (1), methyl asterrate (2), ethyl asterrate (3), emodin (4), physcion (5), chrysophanol (6), and sulochrin (7). Compounds 1–3, which possess a diphenyl ether structure, exhibited highly selective and moderate AChE inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 66.7, 23.3, and 20.1 μM, respectively. The molecular docking analysis showed that compounds 1–3 interacted with the active catalytic site and peripheral anionic site of AChE, and the esterification substitution groups at position 8 of asterric acid may contribute to its bioactivity. The asterric acid derivatives showed highly selective and moderate AChE inhibitory activities, probably via interaction with the peripheral anionic site and catalytic site of AChE. To the best of our knowledge, this study was the first report of the AChE inhibitory activity of asterric acid derivatives, which opens new perspectives for the design of more effective derivatives that could serve as a drug carrier for new chemotherapeutic agents to treat AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is focused on the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing endophytic fungus Talaromyces purpureogenus, isolated from Taxus baccata Linn. Extracellular extract of Talaromyces purpureogenus has shown occurrence of secondary metabolites viz. terpenoids and phenols. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis showed the presence of 16 compounds. Techniques like Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, field emission gun scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction were employed to characterize the synthesized AgNPs. UV–Vis spectroscopy showed sharp peaks at 380–470 nm which indicates the presence of metallic silver. FTIR analysis showed the presence of various functional groups like phenols, hydroxyl groups, and primary amines. In DLS, Z-average size and PdI of synthesized AgNPs were 240.2 r.nm and 0.720 respectively, with zeta potential − 19.6 mV. In FEG-SEM and HRTEM the spherical AgNPs showed diameter in the range of 30–60 nm. In EDS analysis the weight percent of Ag is 67.26% and atomic percent is 43.13%. From XRD analysis the size of AgNPs was found to be 49.3 nm with face-centered cubic crystalline nature of fungal synthesized AgNPs. These nanoparticles have shown significant antibacterial activity against tested strains viz. Listeria monocytogenes (13 ± 0.29 mm), Escherichia coli (17 ± 0.14 mm), Shigella dysenteriae (18 ± 0.21 mm) and Salmonella typhi (14 ± 0.13 mm). These synthesized AgNPs have shown effective free radical scavenging activity against 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl. The present study showed that the endophytic fungus Talaromyces purpureogenus can be used as a prominent source to synthesize AgNPs by using biological, ecofriendly, and in a non-toxic way accompanied by antibacterial and antioxidant properties which further can reduce the harvesting pressure faced by Taxus baccata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cellulose-degrading fungus strain Talaromyces cellulolyticus (formerly known as Acremonium cellulolyticus) Y-94, which was isolated in 1982 from soil in Japan, and strain S6-25, a derivative of Y-94 with higher cellulase productivity, are fungi that exhibit promise as alternatives to Trichoderma reesei for the industrial production of cellulase. MALDI-TOF MS analysis of the T. cellulolyticus Y-94 protein secretome demonstrated that strain Y-94 expressed and secreted a broad spectrum of proteins for the degradation of hemicellulose, starch, or pectin; these proteins include 2 types of α-L-arabinofuranosidases, 2 types of putative glucoamylases, Streptomyces laminarinase-like protein, mutanase, α-amylase, polysaccharide lyase family 6/pectate lyase 3, and β-N-acetylhexosaminidase. The cellulase system of strain S6-25 had the same cellobiohydrolases (Cel6A and Cel7A), β-glucosidase (Bgl3A), xylanase (Xyl10A), and endoglucanase (Cel5A) as strain CF-2612, another derivative of Y-94. However, instead of Cel7B, S6-25 cells expressed another endoglucanase (Cel5C). Two cellobiohydrolases, Cel7A and Cel6A, represented approximately 60% (wt/wt) of the proteins secreted by the strain and were the main enzymes of the cellulase complex. The increase in cellulase complex activity in the S6-25 strain compared with Y-94 may be explained, at least partly, by the presence of an additional copy of the cel7A gene in the cellular genome, which was confirmed by RT-qPCR analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increasing incidence of invasive infections caused by rare fungi was observed over the recent years. Case: Here, we describe the first reported case of an infection caused by the thermophilic mold Talaromyces thermophilus. Cultivation and, hence, identification of this fastidious organism is challenging since standard incubation conditions are not sufficient. Retrospective analysis of patient samples and in vitro experiments demonstrated that testing for fungal antigens, i.e., the cell wall components galactomannan and β-1,3-d-glucan, is a promising tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition, some lines of evidence showed that changing fermentation conditions, such as the alteration of fermentation medias, could lead to a change of the biosynthetic pathways, and some new compounds would appear. For example, Chen et al. found four previously undescribed meroterpenoids, amestolkolides A-D from I T. amestolkiae i wtih anti-inflammatory activity [[4]]; Zhao et al. isolated six new nonadride derivatives and three new spirocyclic anhydride derivatives from I T. purpurogenus i with anti-inflammatory activity [[5]]. Compound B 3 b showed moderate activity against monoamine oxidase with IC SB 50 sb of 139.4 g/mL, and compound B 5 b has weak activity against PI3K with IC SB 50 sb of 535 g/mL. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the chemical constituents of I T. ruber. i The activities of these compounds against monoamine oxidase (MAO) [[9]], acetylcholinesterase (AChE) [[10]], and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) [[11]] were evaluated. [Extracted from the article]

Quinones represent an important group of highly structurally diverse, mainly polyketide-derived secondary metabolites widely distributed among filamentous fungi. Many quinones have been reported to have important biological functions such as inhibition of bacteria or repression of the immune response in insects. Other quinones, such as ubiquinones are known to be essential molecules in cellular respiration, and many quinones are known to protect their producing organisms from exposure to sunlight. Most recently, quinones have also attracted a lot of industrial interest since their electron-donating and -accepting properties make them good candidates as electrolytes in redox flow batteries, like their often highly conjugated double bond systems make them attractive as pigments. On an industrial level, quinones are mainly synthesized from raw components in coal tar. However, the possibility of producing quinones by fungal cultivation has great prospects since fungi can often be grown in industrially scaled bioreactors, producing valuable metabolites on cheap substrates. In order to give a better overview of the secondary metabolite quinones produced by and shared between various fungi, mainly belonging to the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces, Fusarium, and Arthrinium, this review categorizes quinones into families such as emodins, fumigatins, sorbicillinoids, yanuthones, and xanthomegnins, depending on structural similarities and information about the biosynthetic pathway from which they are derived, whenever applicable. The production of these quinone families is compared between the different genera, based on recently revised taxonomy. Key points: • Quinones represent an important group of secondary metabolites widely distributed in important fungal genera such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces, Fusarium, and Arthrinium. • Quinones are of industrial interest and can be used in pharmacology, as colorants and pigments, and as electrolytes in redox flow batteries. • Quinones are grouped into families and compared between genera according to the revised taxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the clinical features and the risk factors for nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and Talaromyces marneffei (TM) co-infections in HIV-negative patients. A multicenter retrospective study in 13 hospitals, and a systematic literature review were performed of original articles published in English related to TM/NTM co-infections. HIV-negative patients with TM and NTM co-infections comprised Group 1; TM-only infection Group 2; NTM-only infection Group 3; and healthy volunteers Group 4. Univariate logistic analysis was used to estimate the potential risk factors of TM/NTM co-infections. A total of 22 cases of TM and NTM co-infections were enrolled. Of these, 17 patients (77.3%) had a missed diagnosis of one of the TM or NTM pathogens. The anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies (AIGAs) titer, white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil counts (N), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C reactive protein (CRP), globulin, and immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels of Group 1 were higher than those of the other groups, whereas the levels of CD4+T cells was lower than those of other groups. There was a significant negative correlation between the AIGA titers and the number of CD4+T cells (P < 0.05). Factors including the ratio of the actual values to the cut-off values of AIGAs, WBC, N, HGB, CD4+T cells, IgG, IgM, IgA, serum globulin, ESR, and CRP were taken as potential risk factors for TM and NTM co-infection. Most patients with TM and NTM co-infection had a missed diagnosis of one of the TM or NTM pathogens. The levels of AIGAs, WBC, N, ESR, and CRP in TM and NTM co-infections were remarkably higher than in mono-infection. High-titer AIGAs may be a potential risk factor and susceptibility factor for co-infection of TM and NTM in HIV-negative hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spiculisporic acid (SA) is a fatty acid-type biosurfactant with one lactone ring and two carboxyl groups. It has been used in metal removers and cosmetics, because of its low propensity to cause irritation to the skin, its anti-bacterial properties, and high surface activity. In the present study, we report an effective method for producing SA by selecting a high-producing strain and investigating the effective medium components, conditions, and environments for its culture. Among the 11 kinds of Talaromyces species, T. trachyspermus NBRC 32238 showed the highest production of a crystalline substance, which was determined to be SA using NMR. The strain was able to produce SA under acidic conditions from hexoses, pentoses, and disaccharides, with glucose and sucrose serving as the most appropriate substrates. Investigation of nitrogen sources and trace metal ions revealed meat extract and FeCl3 as components that promoted SA production. Upon comparing the two types of cultures with glucose in a baffle flask or aeration bioreactor, SA production was found to be slightly higher in the flask than in the reactor. In the bioreactor culture, sucrose was found to be an appropriate substrate for SA production, as compared to glucose, because with sucrose, the lag time until the start of SA production was shortened. Finally, fed-batch culture with sucrose resulted in 60 g/L of SA, with a total yield of 0.22 g SA/g sucrose and a productivity of 6.6 g/L/day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of current research was to explore different fungi as plant growth promoting fungi (PGPF). Strains of Trichoderma are well explored till now. But there are few other fungal strains that are better than Trichoderma strains. The study involves the isolation of different fungi from the rhizosphere of various agriculture farms. After isolation, 18S rRNA identification was carried out. Isolated fungi belonged to genus Penicillium, Talaromyces, Trichoderma, and Aspergillus. Isolate M13 belonging to genus Talaromyces was screened for its plant growth promoting (PGP) activity as it is a novel strain and still to be explored. Isolate M13 was identified as Talaromyces pinophilus (MG011365). Indole acetic acid (IAA) estimation was carried out using Salkowski reagent. Isolate was allowed to grow in cultivation media (Potato Dextrose Broth, PDB) in which one was supplemented with tryptophan (TRP) and one was without TRP. Phosphate solubilization was assessed using Pikovskaya's media and latter estimated using stannous chloride method, showing decent solubilization of phosphate. Siderophore production was assessed using CAS assay that indicated decent extent of siderophore production. Further for biocontrol, enzymatic assay for β-glucanase and chitinase was carried out. For β-glucanase enzyme production 1% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and for chitinase enzyme production 10% v/v colloidal chitin (as a sole carbon source) supplemented in solid minimal-medium-9 (MM9) were used. Antagonism effect of isolate M13 was carried out against Aspergillus niger by dual cultural method. As the strain M13 showed several PGP traits, liquid bioformulation was prepared to perform seed germination assay and pot trials on chickpea, followed by field trial on banana plant. All the experimental data of biochemical assessment with pot and field trials suggest T. pinophilus M13 as a novel fungus that can be used as biointensifier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial pathogens have evolved many strategies to evade recognition by the host immune system, including the use of phagocytic cells as a niche within which to proliferate. Dimorphic pathogenic fungi employ an induced morphogenetic transition, switching from multicellular hyphae to unicellular yeast that are more compatible with intracellular growth. A switch to mammalian host body temperature (37 °C) is a key trigger for the dimorphic switch. This study describes a novel gene, msgA, from the dimorphic fungal pathogen Talaromyces marneffei that controls cell morphology in response to host cues rather than temperature. The msgA gene is upregulated during murine macrophage infection, and deletion results in aberrant yeast morphology solely during growth inside macrophages. MsgA contains a Dbl homology domain, and a Bin, Amphiphysin, Rvs (BAR) domain instead of a Plekstrin homology domain typically associated with guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). The BAR domain is crucial in maintaining yeast morphology and cellular localisation during infection. The data suggests that MsgA does not act as a canonical GEF during macrophage infection and identifies a temperature independent pathway in T. marneffei that controls intracellular yeast morphogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspartic proteases exhibit optimum enzyme activity under acidic conditions and have been extensively used in food, fermentation, and leather industries. In this study, a novel aspartic protease precursor (proTlAPA1) from Talaromyces leycettanus was identified and successfully expressed in Pichia pastoris. Subsequently, the auto-activation processing of the zymogen proTlAPA1 was studied by SDS-PAGE and N-terminal sequencing, under different processing conditions. TlAPA1 shared the highest identity of 70.3% with the aspartic endopeptidase from Byssochlamys spectabilis (GAD91729) and was classified into a new subgroup of the aspartic protease A1 family, based on evolutionary analysis. Mature TlAPA1 protein displayed an optimal activity at 60 °C and remained stable at temperatures of 55 °C and below, indicating the thermostable nature of TlAPA1 aspartic protease. During the auto-activation processing of proTlAPA1, a 45-kDa intermediate was identified that divided the processing mechanism into two steps: formation of intermediates and activation of the mature protein (TlAPA1). The former step can be processed without proteolytic activity, while the latter process depended on protease activity completely. The discovery of the novel aspartic protease TlAPA1 and the study of its activation process will contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of aspartic protease auto-activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 19 endophytic fungi were isolated from Lafoensia pacari, Guazuma ulmifolia, Campomanesia xanthocarpa and Siparuna guianensis. Seventeen strains were molecularly identified as belonging to the genera Colletotrichum, Diaporthe, Bjerkandera, Talaromyces, Cochliobolus, Phaeophlebiopsis, Curvularia, and Xylaraceae. Assays for detecting antioxidant activity were performed by free radical scavenging activity using the DDPH and ABTS + methods. Based on the results with DPPH, two strains were selected to evaluate the presence of flavonoids and anti-inflammatory activity. A strong positive correlation was found between these activities and the presence of flavonoids. The anti-inflammatory activity of endophytic fungi is under explored; however, the Talaromyces obtained the best result of 87.33% protection of erythrocytes and Colletotrichium of 60.71%. This study demonstrated that endophytic fungi associated with selected plants are potential sources of novel antioxidant products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the potential biological activities of rhizospheric fungi isolated from the Achanakmar Biosphere Reserve, India. Fungus, Talaromyces purpureogenus isolate-ABRF2 from the soil of the Achanakmar biosphere was characterized by using morphological, biochemical and molecular techniques. Fungus was screened for the production of secondary metabolites using a specific medium. The metabolites were extracted using a suitable solvent and each fraction was subsequently evaluated for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative and anti-aging properties. The ethanolic extract depicted the highest antioxidant activity with 83%, 79%, 80% and 74% as assessed by ferric reducing power, 2,2-diphenyl 1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2′-azino-bis3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic and phosphomolybdenum assays, respectively. Similarly, ethanolic extracts depicted marked antimicrobial activity as compared with standard antibiotics and antifungal agents as well as demonstrated significant antiproliferative property against a panel of mammalian cancer cell lines. Furthermore, different fractions of the purified ethanolic extract obtained using adsorption column chromatography were evaluated for antiproliferative property and identification of an active metabolite in the purified fraction using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques yielded 3-methyl-4-oxo-pentanoic acid. Thus, the present study suggests that the active metabolite 3-methyl-4-oxo-pentanoic acid extracted from Talaromyces purpureogenus isolate-ABRF2 has a potential antiproliferative, anti-aging, and antimicrobial therapeutic properties that will be further evaluated using in vivo studies in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azaphilones are a class of fungal pigments, reported mostly in association with Monascus species. In Asian countries, they are used as food colourants under the name of "red yeast rice" and their production process is well described. One major limitation of current production techniques of azaphilones is that they always occur in a mixture of yellow, orange and red pigments. These mixtures are difficult to control and to quantify. This study has established a controlled and reproducible cultivation protocol to selectively tailor production of individual pigments during a submerged fermentation using another fungal species capable of producing azaphilone pigments, Talaromyces atroroseus, using single amino acids as the sole nitrogen source. The produced azaphilone pigments are called atrorosins and are amino acid derivatives of the known azaphilone pigment Penicillium purpurogenum–orange (PP-O), with the amino acid used as nitrogen source incorporated into the core skeleton of the azaphilone. This strategy was successfully demonstrated using 18 proteinogenic amino acids and the non-proteinogenic amino acid ornithine. Two cultivation methods for production of the pure serine derivative (atrorosin S) have been further developed, with yields of 0.9 g/L being obtained. Yielding pure atrorosins through switching from KNO3 to single amino acids as nitrogen source allows for considerably easier downstream processing and thus further enhances the commercial relevance of azaphilone producing fungal cell factories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]