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Black root rot (BRR) and Verticillium wilt of cotton are caused by soilborne Berkeleyomyces rouxiae and Verticillium dahliae, respectively, and can individually cause yield loss of a 10–50% in New South Wales (NSW). Both diseases were first detected in a northern valley of NSW but are now present across the state. 'Come Clean Go Clean' is a widely practiced biosecurity measure used to minimize the risk of further introducing the pathogens from one field to another by restricting the movement of soil-contaminated farm equipment and machinery. We rely on cleaning agents to effectively wash down and decontaminate the equipment and machinery. In this study, we examined 12 locally available, commercial disinfectants for their efficacy against B. rouxiae and V. dahliae reproductive structures with and without soil contamination of 10% (w/v). We found a significant interaction between pathogens, disinfectants, and soil amendment (p < 0.01). The germination of B. rouxiae chlamydospores and endoconidia in both the presence and absence of soil contamination was completely suppressed even after a short 10 sec exposure to 70% ethanol and 25% bleach. Both 70% ethanol and bleach were highly lethal at 10 sec exposures in similar assays against V. dahliae microsclerotia and conidia. Some other commercial products were able to reduce the germination rate significantly but did not completely kill microsclerotia and conidia even after 30 min of exposure. The lethal effect against B. rouxiae and V. dahliae warrants further exploration of both 70% ethanol and bleach to improve their field applications. Additionally, the efficacy of most tested commercial disinfectants was time-dependent; however, this is not recommended on the labels for their effectiveness. This study provides an additional integrated disease management option aiming to limit the spread of the pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Maize stalk rot (MSR), caused by Fusarium graminearum, is the most serious soil borne disease in maize production, seriously affecting maize yield and quality worldwide. Microbial biocontrol agents are the best means of controlling MSR and reducing the use of chemical fungicides, such as Bacillus spp. Methods and results: In the study, a soil-isolated strain B105-8 was identified as B. velezensis (accession No. PP325775.1 and No. PP869695.1), demonstrated a broad spectrum against various pathogens causing maize diseases, which effectively controlled MSR, exhibited a high control efficacy of more than 60% and growth-promoting effect in the pot plant. B105-8 could effectively improve soil urease (S-UE), invertase (S-SC), and catalase (S-CAT) activities. S-NP activity showed an initial increase with a peak of 20,337  nmol/h/g, followed by a decrease, but activity remained significantly better than control treatment with chemical fungicides. The application of B105-8 repaired the damage caused by F. graminearum on soil activity. The antifungal compound B-1, extracted from B105-8, was purified using a protein purifier, revealing inhibitory effects against F. graminearum. Mass spectrometry analysis indicated the potential presence of C14 Bacillomycin, C15 Iturin, C15 Mycosubtilin, C17, and C15 fengycin in B-1. In pot experiments, a 5  μL/mL concentration of B-1 exhibited 69% control on MSR, enhancing maize root elongation, elevation, and fresh weight. At 10  μL/mL, B-1 showed 89.0 and 82.1% inhibition on spore production and mycelial growth, causing hyphal deformities. Discussion: This study presents the innovative use of B. velezensis, isolated from maize rhizosphere in cold conditions to effectively control MSR caused by F. graminearum. The findings highlight the remarkable regional and adaptive characteristics of this strain, making it an excellent candidate to fight MSR in diverse environments. In conclusion, B. velezensis B105-8 demonstrated potential as a biocontrol agent for MSR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study focuses on Candida albicans, a significant fungal pathogen in humans, particularly affecting immunocompromised individuals and developing resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs. To address this challenge, the research assessed the in-vitro anti-candida properties of cold-pressed coconut oil. Additionally, the study conducted an in-silico evaluation of the oil's bioactive compounds against candidapepsin-2, an enzyme crucial in the virulence and pathogenesis of Candida infections. Materials and Methods: Extracted coconut oil was tested for its sterility and evaluated for its antifungal activity in-vitro using the agar well-diffusion methods with fluconazole as a positive control. Growth kinetics assay and synergism activity with fluconazole were also assessed. The coconut oil was quantitatively screened for its bioactive compounds using gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrophotometer (GC-MS) and the resulting bioactive compounds were assessed for absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) properties using the SWISSADME tool. Compounds that met Lipinski's rule of five (ROF) were subjected to molecular docking against candidapepsin-2 using the Biovia (Discovery) docking tool. Results: The test isolates exhibited zones of inhibition ranging from 47–76 mm to the extract (100%) compared to 12–42 mm exhibited against fluconazole (400 mg) and 2–3 mm in plates containing only agar with MICs and MFCs ranging from 1.57–6.25% and 3.13 −12.5% against the extract compared to the control drug where MICs and MFCs of 6.25–12.5% and 12.5–25.0% were observed, respectively. The coconut extract exerted a concentration-dependent effect on the test isolates over time as higher extract concentrations decreased the optical density of cells to 0.001–0.06 at 72 h of incubation. Equal proportions of the extract + fluconazole exerted greater inhibitory potentials on the test isolates compared with those of low extract proportions. The synergistic-antagonistic antifungal assay showed enhanced sensitivity of the resistant isolates. Of the eleven (11) bioactive compounds quantitatively screened, only nine (9) met Lipinski's ROF and also returned favourable pharmacokinetics comparable to fluconazole. Docking scores for the bioactive compounds ranged from −2.0 to −3.0 kcal/mol. The most recurring amino acid residues following molecular docking were ILE and THR. Conclusion: The bioactive compounds showed desirable activities in-vitro, especially in synergy with fluconazole against the drug-resistant Candida species and in-silico and thus, require further studies to validate their potential use in the management of Candida -related infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Most microorganisms that cause food decay and the lower the shelf life of foods are fungi. Nanotechnologies can combat various diseases and deal with the application of nanomaterial to target cells or tissues. In this study selenium nanoparticles (Se‐NPs) were synthesized using ascorbic acid and characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction and zeta potential. The different concentrations of As/Se‐NPs were tested against various fungi, including Alternaria linicola, Alternaria padwickii, Botrytis cinerea, Bipolaris sp., Cephalosporium acremonium, Fusarium moniliform and Fusarium semitectum. This study tested the influence of coated As/Se‐NPs on healthy strawberry fruits and those infected with Botrytis cinerea during 16 days of storage, with regard to shelf life, decay percentage, weight loss, total titratable acidity percentage, total soluble solids content (TSS) and anthocyanin content. RESULTS: Energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis showed only two elements: selenium and oxygen. TEM images showed that the nanoparticles ranged in size between 26 to 39 nm and were rhombohedral in shape. Se‐NPs showed antifungal activity against all tested fungi, the most effective being against Botrytis cinerea, Cephalosporium acremonium and Fusarium semitectum. During storage periods of strawberries fruits coated with As/Se‐NPs, the shelf life was increased, and the number of decaying fruits was less than in control (uncoated) and coated infected fruits. The decline in weight loss was lower in coated fruits than in control fruits. CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrated that As/Se‐NPs could effectively maintain the postharvest quality of strawberries, even when the fruit was infected with B. cinerea. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, we conducted the synthesis of derivatives (2a-c) derived from 4-fluoro-3- methylacetophenone (FMAP) (1) using aldol condensation with substituteddibromobenzaldehydes (a-c). The condensation process occurred in ethanol with the presence of a base, leading to the creation of chalcone derivatives (2a-c). These chalcones serve as crucial intermediates for the production of a diverse array of heterocyclic products. Upon reaction with hydrazine, pyrazol derivatives (3a-c) were obtained, while the use of hydroxylamine hydrochloride resulted in the formation of isoxazole (4a-c). Additionally, the reaction with urea produced oxazine derivatives (5a-c). We characterized all these compounds using spectral techniques, monitoring their reactions through TLC and measuring melting points. Subsequently, we assessed the biological activity of these compounds against two distinct bacterial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus melanose, caused by Diaporthe citri, is one of the most prevalent and important fungal diseases of citrus crops globally. However, the overuse of chemical fungicides for disease control has an adverse impact on citrus production. In contrast, biological control agents (BCAs) are environmentally friendly and have become essential tools for plant disease control. In the present study, Bacillus subtilis M23, a strain isolated from healthy citrus leaves, significantly suppressed the mycelial growth of D. citri, the causal agent of citrus melanose, in vitro. The fermentation broth of B. subtilis M23 also exhibited good antifungal activity against D. citri on citrus plants in greenhouse and field experiments. Lipopeptides (LPs) produced by M23 exhibited excellent antifungal activity against D. citri, with a 50 % effective concentration (EC50) of approximately 1.00 and 0.28 μg/mL for inhibition of mycelial growth and conidial germination, respectively. LP biosynthesis genes were identified in the M23 genome using a PCR assay. Notably, LP extracts significantly reduced the formation of pycnidia and ATP biosynthesis in D. citri. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed significant differences in the expression of genes associated with fungal vacuole, oxidoreductase activity and endopeptidase activity in D. citri treated with B. subtilis M23. Both RNA-seq and RT-qPCR analysis provided similar results on the expression of selected genes. Collectively, our data provided convincing data supporting the biocontrol potential of B. subtilis M23 for the management of citrus melanose.

Abstract Chitosan is a natural non-toxic, biocompatible, biodegradable, and mucoadhesive polymer. It also has a broad spectrum of applications such as agriculture, medical fields, cosmetics and food industries. In this investigation, chitosan nanoparticles were produced by an aqueous extract of Cympopogon citratus leaves as a reducing agent. According to the SEM and TEM micrographs, CNPs had a spherical shape, and size ranging from 8.08 to 12.01 nm. CNPs have a positively charged surface with a Zeta potential of + 26 mV. The crystalline feature of CNPs is determined by X-ray diffraction. There are many functional groups, including C꞊C, CH2-OH, C–O, C-S, N–H, CN, CH and OH were detected by FTIR analysis. As shown by the thermogravimetric study, CNPs have a high thermal stability. For the optimization of the green synthesis of CNPs, a Face centered central composite design (FCCCD) with 30 trials was used. The maximum yield of CNPs (13.99 mg CNPs/mL) was produced with chitosan concentration 1.5%, pH 4.5 at 40 °C, and incubation period of 30 min. The antifungal activity of CNPs was evaluated against phytopathogenic fungus; Fusarium culmorum. A 100% rate of mycelial growth inhibition was gained by the application of 20 mg CNPs/mL. The antitumor activity of the green synthesized CNPs was examined using 6 different cell lines, the viability of the cells reduced when the concentration of green synthesized CNPs increased, the IC50 dose of the green synthesized CNPs on the examined cell lines HePG-2, MCF-7, HCT-116, PC-3, Hela and WI-38 was 36.25 ± 2.3, 31.21 ± 2.2, 67.45 ± 3.5, 56.30 ± 3.3, 44.62 ± 2.6 and 74.90 ± 3.8; respectively.

In present study, a series of MnAlxFe2−xO4 (x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) ferrite nanoparticles are synthesized via auto‐combustion method and investigated for the structural, optical, and antifungal characteristics. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy are employed to analyze the structure and morphology, revealing alterations in the lattice parameters and crystallite size (24.83–17.95 nm) due to Al doping. The optical properties of the synthesized nanoparticles are examined through UV–visible spectroscopy, indicating a decrease in the bandgap energy (1.44–1.33 eV) with the incorporation of Al3+ ions. Additionally, the antifungal activity of the Al‐doped MnFe2O4 nanoparticles is assessed against two selected fungal strains, i.e., Aspergillus niger (MTCC 282) and Candida albicans (MTCC 227). The findings contribute to the understanding of the multifaceted properties of Al‐doped MnFe2O4, highlighting its potential applications in diverse fields such as sensors, and biomedical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is a natural non-toxic, biocompatible, biodegradable, and mucoadhesive polymer. It also has a broad spectrum of applications such as agriculture, medical fields, cosmetics and food industries. In this investigation, chitosan nanoparticles were produced by an aqueous extract of Cympopogon citratus leaves as a reducing agent. According to the SEM and TEM micrographs, CNPs had a spherical shape, and size ranging from 8.08 to 12.01 nm. CNPs have a positively charged surface with a Zeta potential of + 26 mV. The crystalline feature of CNPs is determined by X-ray diffraction. There are many functional groups, including C꞊C, CH2-OH, C–O, C-S, N–H, CN, CH and OH were detected by FTIR analysis. As shown by the thermogravimetric study, CNPs have a high thermal stability. For the optimization of the green synthesis of CNPs, a Face centered central composite design (FCCCD) with 30 trials was used. The maximum yield of CNPs (13.99 mg CNPs/mL) was produced with chitosan concentration 1.5%, pH 4.5 at 40 °C, and incubation period of 30 min. The antifungal activity of CNPs was evaluated against phytopathogenic fungus; Fusarium culmorum. A 100% rate of mycelial growth inhibition was gained by the application of 20 mg CNPs/mL. The antitumor activity of the green synthesized CNPs was examined using 6 different cell lines, the viability of the cells reduced when the concentration of green synthesized CNPs increased, the IC50 dose of the green synthesized CNPs on the examined cell lines HePG-2, MCF-7, HCT-116, PC-3, Hela and WI-38 was 36.25 ± 2.3, 31.21 ± 2.2, 67.45 ± 3.5, 56.30 ± 3.3, 44.62 ± 2.6 and 74.90 ± 3.8; respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to control the occurrence of ginseng root rot caused by Fusarium solani (Mart.) Sacc., the antifungal compounds of the mushroom Suillus bovinus were investigated. And three new alkaloids (1-3), named bovinalkaloid A-C, along with one known analog (4), were isolated and identified by bioassayguided isolation and spectroscopic analyses. Compound 1 strongly inhibited the mycelial growth and spore germination of F. solani with minimum inhibitory concentration of 2.08 mM. Increases in electrical conductivity, nucleic acid, and protein contents, and decreases in lipid content showed that the membrane permeability and integrity were damaged by compound 1. Compound 1 also increased the contents of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide and the activities of antioxidant enzymes, indicating that lipid peroxidation had taken place in F. solani. Compound 1 may serve as a natural alternative to synthetic fungicides for the control of ginseng root rot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal infections represent a challenging threat to the human health. Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton rubrum are pathogenic fungi causing various topical mycoses in humans. The globally emerging issue of resistance to fungi demands the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In this context, the application of nanoliposomes as vehicles for carrying active therapeutic agents can be a suitable alternative. In this study, rhinacanthin-C was isolated from Rhinacanthus naustus and encapsulated in nano-liposomal formulations, which were prepared by the modified ethanol injection method. The two best formulations composed of soybean phosphatidylcholine (SPC), cholesterol (CHL), and tween 80 (T80) in a molar ratio of 1:1:0 (F1) and 1:1:0.5 (F2) were proceeded for experimentation. The physical characteristics and antifungal activities were performed and compared with solutions of rhinacanthin-C. The rhinacanthin-C encapsulating efficiencies in F1 and F2 were 94.69 ± 1.20% and 84.94 ± 1.32%, respectively. The particle sizes were found to be about 221.4 ± 13.76 nm (F1) and 115.8 ± 23.33 nm (F2), and zeta potential values of -38.16 mV (F1) and -40.98 mV (F2). Similarly, the stability studies of rhinacanthin-C in liposomes demonstrated that rhinacanthin-C in both formulations was more stable in mediums with pH of 4.0 and 6.6 than pure rhinacanthin-C when stored at the same conditions. Rhinacanthin-C in F1 was slightly more stable than F2 when stored in mediums with a pH of 10.0 after three months of storage. However, rhinacanthin-C in both formulations was less stable than pure rhinacanthin-C in a basic medium of pH 10.0. The antifungal potential was evaluated against M. gypsum and T. rubrum. The findings revealed a comparatively higher zone of inhibition for F1. In the MIC study, SPC: CHL: T80 showed higher inhibition against M. gypseum and a slightly higher inhibition against T. rubrum compared to free rhinacanthin-C solution. Moreover, rhinacanthin-C showed significant interaction against 14α-demethylase in in silico study. Overall, this study demonstrates that nanoliposomes containing rhinacanthin-C can improve the stability and antifungal potential of rhinacanthin-C with sustained and prolonged duration of action and could be a promising vehicle for delivery of active ingredients for targeting various fungal infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a detailed process for the extraction of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing Gyrocarpus americanus. The method involves incubating silver ions for 48 hours in darkness, utilizing G. americanus extract as a bioreductant. Analysis using UV-Visible spectrophotometry confirmed the successful synthesis of nanoparticles from the GA extract, with a prominent peak observed at 435 nm. Further examination through scanning electron microscopy and XRD spectra revealed the spherical shapes of GA silver nanoparticles, with diameters ranging from 93 to 168 nm. Additionally, the nanoparticles exhibited aggregation of smaller particles into larger ones. Zeta potential measurements indicated a high level of stability, with reported values exceeding +25 mV or falling below -25 mV. The FT-IR spectrum of GA silver nanoparticles exhibited absorption peaks at 1159.26, 1629.90, 1641.48, 2399.53, 2926.11, 3423.76 and 3450.77 cm-1, indicative of specific functional groups present. Antimicrobial activity evaluation revealed inhibition zones measuring 10 and 11 mm against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 9 and 10 mm for Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger, respectively. In summary, this research highlights the feasibility of synthesizing environmentally friendly, broad-spectrum antibacterial silver nanoparticles using extracts from Gyrocarpus americanus. These findings hold significant promise for various applications in industries such as healthcare and biotechnology, offering a sustainable and effective solution to combat microbial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to find new potential fungicides and anticancer agents, a series of new coumarin amide derivatives bearing fluorine were synthesized and characterized spectroscopically. Compounds A6, B11, C2 and C7 were confirmed by X-ray diffraction further. The antifungal bioassays against five typical pathogenic fungi showed that compound C5 exhibited more remarkable fungicidal activities against Alternaria alternata (EC50 = 11.5 μg/mL), Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (EC50 = 18.0 μg/mL), Pyricularia grisea (EC50 = 33.8 μg/mL), surpassing kresoxim-methyl. Molecular docking result indicated that C5 displayed high binding affinity to chitinase, which plays crucial role in degradation and remodeling of fungal cell walls. In addition, the anticancer bioassays against three cancer cells demonstrated that compound A4 displayed excellent growth inhibitory effect against Hela cells with IC50 value of 8.13 μM, and low cytotoxicity against human normal cells BEAS-2B. Flow cytometric analysis further demonstrated that A4 significantly arrested cell cycle at the S phase and trigger apoptosis. With the above interesting biological profile, these coumarin derivatives could be used as anfungicides and anticancer candidates.

Black root rot (BRR) and Verticillium wilt of cotton are caused by soilborne Berkeleyomyces rouxiae and Verticillium dahliae, respectively, and can individually cause yield loss of a 10–50% in New South Wales (NSW). Both diseases were first detected in a northern valley of NSW but are now present across the state. ‘Come Clean Go Clean’ is a widely practiced biosecurity measure used to minimize the risk of further introducing the pathogens from one field to another by restricting the movement of soil-contaminated farm equipment and machinery. We rely on cleaning agents to effectively wash down and decontaminate the equipment and machinery. In this study, we examined 12 locally available, commercial disinfectants for their efficacy against B. rouxiae and V. dahliae reproductive structures with and without soil contamination of 10% (w/v). We found a significant interaction between pathogens, disinfectants, and soil amendment (p < 0.01). The germination of B. rouxiae chlamydospores and endoconidia in both the presence and absence of soil contamination was completely suppressed even after a short 10 sec exposure to 70% ethanol and 25% bleach. Both 70% ethanol and bleach were highly lethal at 10 sec exposures in similar assays against V. dahliae microsclerotia and conidia. Some other commercial products were able to reduce the germination rate significantly but did not completely kill microsclerotia and conidia even after 30 min of exposure. The lethal effect against B. rouxiae and V. dahliae warrants further exploration of both 70% ethanol and bleach to improve their field applications. Additionally, the efficacy of most tested commercial disinfectants was time-dependent; however, this is not recommended on the labels for their effectiveness. This study provides an additional integrated disease management option aiming to limit the spread of the pathogens.

Background: Phytopathogenic fungi remain the main infectious agents in plants, causing severe damage to the environment and human health. Thus, to reduce the usage of synthetically derived fungicides and perform agricultural crop production, the search for new control strategies including plant extracts constitutes an eco-friendly and safe alternative. Objectives: This study aimed to quantify the phytochemical constituents of the three plant (Mentha pulegium L., Mentha spicata L., and Mentha longifolia L.) extracts and to screen their phytochemical composition including total phenolic (TPC), flavonoids (TFC) and condensed tannins contents (TCTC), and to evaluate their antioxidant activities. The efficacy of all mint extracts will be investigated against phytopathogenic fungal species. Materials and Methods: The three plant extracts were screened to assess their total phenolic, flavonoids, and condensed tannin contents using spectrophotometric assays. The antioxidant activities include 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and β-carotene assays. The antifungal activities were investigated on phytopathogenic species including Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium culmorum, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, and Trichoderma sp. Results: Quantitative analyses of phytochemical constituents of Mentha genus extracts revealed that both ethyl acetate (EtAc) and chloroformic (Chl) extracts are a rich source of phenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins. Ethyl acetate extract of M. longifolia (EtAc L) displayed the highest content of phenols (69.9 ± 1.35 mg GAE/g DW) and flavonoids (53.26 ± 2.11 mg CE/g DW), while M. pulegium ethyl acetate extract (EtAc P) has the highest condensed tannins content (2.13 ± 0.4 mg CE/g DW). Moreover, the tested extracts exhibited potent antioxidant activities at low concentrations for EtAc L, followed by M. spicata (EtAc S), and EtAc P (IC50 = 35.76 ± 1.32 µg/mL for scavenging DPPH free radicals; EC50 527.96 ± 5.45 µg/mL for FRAP, and IC50 = 106.3 ± 3.75 µg/mL for β-carotene bleaching test). Finally, all tested extracts were able to inhibit the growth of several phytopathogenic micro-organisms on both agar and broth media. Conclusion: The Mentha extracts derived from the three mint species (i.e., L, P, and S) could be used for their antifungal activities to provide sustainable crop pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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AbstractOne new rare carbon-bridged citrinin dimer quinocitrindimer C (1) as a pair of epimers, two new polyketide penicilliodes D (3) and E (4) together with nine known citrinin derivatives, were isolated from the fermentation broth of starfish-derived symbiotic fungus Penicillium sp. GGF16-1-2. Their structures and configurations were elucidated by comprehensively spectroscopic data analysis and electronic circular dichroism calculations. Eleven citrinin derivatives were tested by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and compound 2 played a significant antifungal activity against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides with LC50 value of 0.27 μg/ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical investigation of Penicillium sp. GDGJ-N37, a Sophora tonkinensis-associated fungus, yielded two new azaphilone derivatives, N-isoamylsclerotiorinamine (1) and 7-methoxyl-N-isoamylsclerotiorinamine (2), and four known azaphilones (3–6), together with two new chromone derivatives, penithochromones X and Y (7 and 8). Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic data, CD spectrum, and semi-synthesis. Sclerotioramine (3) showed significant antibacterial activities against B. subtilis and S. dysentery, and it also showed most potent anti-plant pathogenic fungi activities against P. theae, C. miyabeanus, and E. turcicum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium oxysporum, a primary soil-borne fungus that affects rice seedlings globally, is responsible for rice seedling blight (RSB), which reduces seedling quality and survival rates. The synthetic fungicides used to treat this disease negatively affect human health and the environment. A biocontrol bacterial isolate, Bacillus velezensis Bv S3, isolated from the rice rhizosphere, showed a strong antagonistic effect on RSB-causing F. oxysporum. The ratio of the longest to the shortest radius of F. oxysporum following Bv S3 inoculation was 2.52 (cm/cm) in a plate standoff experiment. This was different from the other biocontrol strains. Bv S3 exhibits a wide spectrum of antifungal activity against various pathogenic fungi that cause RSB. When 10% Bv S3 liquid culture filtrate was applied, it dramatically reduced F. oxysporum spore germination and mycelial growth, with inhibition rates of 66.7%, and 45.7%, respectively, and caused hyphal malformations. Furthermore, the Bv S3 suspension (1 × 108 CFU/mL) reduced RSB by 65.5% and 76.5% in pot experiments, effectively promoted the growth of rice seedlings, and improved the activities of neutral phosphatase, urease, invertase, and catalase in rice rhizosphere soil. The active substances produced by Bv S3 were sensitive to temperature and ultraviolet irradiation, and the antifungal effect significantly increased after 90 min of exposure, with antifungal effect observed at pH 7. Bv. S3 effectively reduced the incidence of RSB and showed potential as a biocontrol agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhazya stricta is a major medicinal species used in indigenous medicinal herbal medications in South Asia, the Middle East, Iran, and Iraq to treat a variety of ailments. The current study aimed to investigate the antifungal properties of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) made from R. stricta aqueous extract and its alkaline aqueous fraction. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-vis spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and transmitted electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize AgNPs. The produced extracts and AgNPs were tested for their antifungal efficacy against four Fusarium spp. All of the characterization experiments proved the biosynthesis of targeted AgNPs. FTIR showed a wide distribution of hydroxyl, amino, carboxyl, and alkyl functional groups among all preparations. The DLS results showed that the produced Aq-AgNPs and the Alk-AgNPs had an average size of 95.9 nm and 54.04 nm, respectively. On the other hand, TEM results showed that the Aq-AgNPs and Alk-AgNPs had average diameters ranging from 21 to 90 nm and 7.25 to 25.32 nm. Both AgNPs absorbed UV light on average at 405 nm and 415 nm, respectively. Regarding the fungicidal activity, the highest doses of Aq-extract and Aq-AgNPs inhibited the mycelial growth of F. incarnatum (19.8%, 87.5%), F. solani (28.1%, 72.3%), F. proliferatum (37.5%, 75%), and F. verticillioides (27.1%, 62.5%), respectively (p < 0.001). Interestingly, the Alk-fraction had stronger inhibition than the biosynthesized AgNPs, which resulted in complete inhibition at the doses of 10% and 20% (p < 0.001). Furthermore, microscopic analysis demonstrated that both AgNPs caused obvious morphological alterations in the treated organisms when compared to the control. In conclusion, R. stricta's Aq-extract, alkaline fraction, and their biosynthesized AgNPs show substantial antifungal efficacy against several Fusarium spp. It is the first study to highlight the prospective biological activities of R. stricta Aq-extract and its alkaline fraction against F. incarnatum, F. proliferatum, and F. verticillioides. In addition, it is the first opportunity to deeply investigate the ultrastructural changes induced in the Fusarium species treated with R. stricta crude Aq-extract and its biosynthesized AgNPs. More studies are required to investigate their biological effect against other Fusarium or fungal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Murraya koenigii (M. Koenigii) is a common indigenous plant in Tamil Nadu, India, known for its various medicinal properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential antifungal activity of an ethanolic extract of bark of M. koenigii (EEBMK) against five fungal species. Methods: EEBMK extract was evaluated in vitro for its antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma viride, Fusarium oxysporum, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans using the agar well diffusion method. Results: EEBMK significantly inhibited the growth of C. neoformans, C. albicans and suppressed the growth of F. oxysporum and A. niger. However, EEBMK showed no activity against T. viride strains. The antifungal activity of EEBMK was sequenced as C. neoformans (15.6 ± 1.15 mm) > C. albicans (14.3 ±1.5 mm) > F. oxysporum (8.3 ± 0.57 mm) > A. niger (8 ±1 mm). Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that EEBMK could be used as a natural antifungal agent to treat infections caused by certain types of fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five known bidesmosidic triterpenoid saponins (1 – 5) and their hydrolysates, namely two new monodesmosidic triterpenoid saponins (1′ and 2′) and three known saponins (3′ – 5′), were isolated from Amaranthus hypochondriacus seeds. The structures of the new compounds were determined using interpreting 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data and high-resolution electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (HRESI-MS) analyses as 3- O -β- D -glucuronopyranosyl-30-normedicagenic acid (1′) and 3- O -[α- L -rhamnopyranosyl (1 → 3)-β- D -glucuronopyranosyl] bayogenin (2′). For the first time, 5 and 5′ were isolated from Medicago plants as the first examples of glycosides in medicagenic acid from Amaranthus plants. While bidesmosidic saponins showed no cytotoxicity, monodesmosidic saponins, except for 1′ , showed moderate cytotoxicity against human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa) cells. In addition, monodesmosidic saponins showed anti-fungal activity against the rice blast fungus (Pyricularia oryzae). [Display omitted] • Ten triterpenoid saponins (1 – 5 and 1′ – 5′) were isolated from Amaranthus hypochondriacus seeds. • Bidesmosidic saponins, 1 – 5 , change to monodesmosidic saponins, 1′ – 5′ , by hydrolysis. • 1′ and 2′ were newly discovered, and 3′ was first isolated from a natural source. • Monodesmosidic saponins, 2′ – 5′ , showed cytotoxicity against HeLa cells. • Monodesmosidic saponins showed antifungal activities against Pyricularia oryzae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The condensation reaction of Benzil with semicarbazide followed by a triazine ring formation and then subsequent interaction with substituted aromatic aldehydes, resulted in synthesis of aromatic hydrazone derivatives (C1-C4). These derivatives have been synthesized via greener method using acetic acid rather than conc. Sulfuric acid. The resultant compounds were analyzed using spectral (1H-NMR, IR) and elemental analysis. The in-vitro analysis of these compounds portrayed prominent activity against bacterial and fungal strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Soybean root rot (SRR), caused by Fusarium oxysporum, is a severe soil-borne disease in soybean production worldwide, which adversely impacts the yield and quality of soybean. The most effective method for managing crop soil-borne diseases and decreasing reliance on chemical fungicides, such as Bacillus spp., is via microbial biocontrol agents. Methods and Results: In this study, a soil-isolated strain BVE7 was identified as B. velezensis, exhibiting broad-spectrum activity against various pathogens causing soybean root rot. BVE7 sterile filtrate, at a concentration of 10%, demonstrated significant antifungal activity by inhibiting the conidial germination, production, and mycelial growth of F. oxysporum by 61.11%, 73.44%, and 85.42%, respectively, causing hyphal malformations. The antifungal compound produced by BVE7 demonstrated adaptability to a standard environment. The pot experiment showed that BVE7 suspension could effectively control soybean root rot, with the highest control efficiency of 75.13%. Furthermore, it considerably enhanced the activity of catalase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase in soybean roots, while also preventing an increase in malondialdehyde activity. By improving the host resistance towards pathogens, the damage caused by fungi and the severity of soybean root rot have been reduced. Discussion: This study presents the innovative utilization of B. velezensis, isolated from soybean roots in cold conditions, for effectively controlling soybean root rot caused by F. oxysporum. The findings highlight the remarkable regional and adaptive characteristics of this strain, making it an excellent candidate for combating soybean root rot in diverse environments. In conclusion, B. velezensis BVE7 demonstrated potential in effectively reducing SRR incidence and can be considered as a viable option for SRR management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea is the most harmful postharvest disease responsible for the degradation of strawberries. The presented study targeted the preparation of 7S globulin from pea seeds to serve as an antifungal agent against B. cinerea in vitro and on the post-harvest strawberry to extend the fruits' shelf life. The 7S globulin isolation from pea seeds and characterization employed various methods, such as SDS-PAGE, FTIR, and pH solubility curve. The molecular technique also helped confirm the identity of the causative microorganism of the gray mold disease in strawberries. Utilizing rRNA gene sequencing identified a fungal pathogen that causes gray mold as B. cinerea. The 7S globulin showed three protein bands corresponding to a/(83 KDa), a (68 KDa), and ß (60 KDa) subunits. The isoelectric point was notable at pH 5.8. The essential and non-essential amino acids occurred around 24.92% and 54.04%, respectively. The 7S globulin inhibited the mycelial growth of B. cinerea in a concentration-dependent manner. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) of B. cinerea subjected to 7S globulin showed swelling of both the fungal hyphae and conidia, significantly affected by the pea 7S-globulin treatment, entirely destabilizing and deforming their shape at 0.4 g/L. The 7S-globulin exposure maintained the fruit quality and stopped the strawberry's natural deterioration. Results further authenticated that 7S globulin (isolated from pea seeds) revealed effective antifungal action against B. cinerea mycelial development via a membrane-targeted mechanism. The 7S globulin affects hyphal morphology, compromises plasma membrane integrity, and prevents post-harvest gray mold on strawberry fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chalcones and their derivatives have been widely studied due to their versatile pharmacological and biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antitumor effects. These compounds have shown suitable antiviral effects through the selective targeting of a variety of viral enzymes, including lactate dehydrogenase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), fumarate reductase, protein tyrosine phosphatase, topoisomerase-II, protein kinases, integrase/protease, and lactate/isocitrate dehydrogenase, among others. Chalcones and their derivatives have displayed excellent potential for combating pathogenic bacteria and fungi (especially, multidrug-resistant bacteria). However, relevant mechanisms should be further explored, focusing on inhibitory effects against DNA gyrase B, UDP-N-acetylglucosamine enolpyruvyl transferase (MurA), and efflux pumps (e.g., NorA), among others. In addition, the antifungal and antiparasitic activities of these compounds (e.g., antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial properties) have prompted additional explorations. Nonetheless, systematic analysis of the relevant mechanisms, biosafety issues, and pharmacological properties, as well as clinical translation studies, are vital for practical applications. Herein, recent advancements pertaining to the antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal activities of chalcones and their derivatives are deliberated, focusing on the relevant mechanisms of action, crucial challenges, and future prospects. Furthermore, due to the great importance of greener and more sustainable synthesis of these valuable compounds, especially on an industrial scale, the progress made in this field has been briefly discussed. Hopefully, this review can serve as a catalyst for researchers to delve deeper into the exploration and designing of novel chalcone compounds with medicinal properties, especially against pathogenic viruses and multidrug-resistant bacteria as major causes of concern for human health.

Amino-pesticide conjugates enable to improve the systemic conductivity of parent ingredients, increase utilization efficiency, and decrease the waste that was caused by the unreached target and thus pollution to the environment. In this study, four target compounds were designed and synthesized using the natural product Rhein as the leading compound and β-aminobutyric acid (BABA) as the directing group, and their antifungal activities against the six plant pathogens, effects on enzymatic activities of the phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL) and peroxidase (POD) of wheat leaves, which were treated by the compounds, and their phloem translocation in Ricinus seedling were measured. The results showed that compound 4b (concentration at 0.5 mmol/L) had not only an inhibition effect on the Rhizoctonia solani Kühn (the inhibition rate of mycelial growth was 53.5%), but also an inducible resistance (duration was nearly 7 d), and phloem translocation (sap concentration was 15.1 μmol/L). This study provides a new idea for developing systemic and inducible fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal oxide nanoparticles are considered to be good alternatives as fungicides for plant disease control. To date, numerous metal oxide nanoparticles have been produced and evaluated as promising antifungal agents. Consequently, a detailed and critical review on the use of mono-, bi-, and tri-metal oxide nanoparticles for controlling phytopathogenic fungi is presented. Among the studied metal oxide nanoparticles, mono-metal oxide nanoparticles—particularly ZnO nanoparticles, followed by CuO nanoparticles —are the most investigated for controlling phytopathogenic fungi. Limited studies have investigated the use of bi- and tri-metal oxide nanoparticles for controlling phytopathogenic fungi. Therefore, more studies on these nanoparticles are required. Most of the evaluations have been carried out under in vitro conditions. Thus, it is necessary to develop more detailed studies under in vivo conditions. Interestingly, biological synthesis of nanoparticles has been established as a good alternative to produce metal oxide nanoparticles for controlling phytopathogenic fungi. Although there have been great advances in the use of metal oxide nanoparticles as novel antifungal agents for sustainable agriculture, there are still areas that require further improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple visible‐light‐induced CuCl‐catalyzed synthesis was developed for highly functionalized carbon‐centered compounds (α‐alk/aryloxy‐α‐diaryl/alkylaryl‐acetaldehydes/ketones) at room temperature using benzoquinone, alkyl/aryl alcohol, and alkyl/aryl terminal/internal alkynes. Late‐stage functionalized compounds show good antifungal activities, especially against Candida krusei fungal strain, in in vitro experiments (the Broth microdilution method). Moreover, toxicity tests (zebrafish egg model experiments) indicated that these compounds had negligible cytotoxicity. The green chemistry metrics (E‐factor value is 7.3) and eco‐scale (eco‐scale value is 58.8) evaluations show that the method is simple, mild, highly efficient, eco‐friendly, and environmentally feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-derived compounds and their extracts are known to exhibit chemo preventive (antimicrobial, antioxidant and other) activities. The levels of such chemo preventive compounds vary depending on environmental factors, including the regions where they grow. Described in this study are: (i) a phytochemical analysis of the two plants grown in the desert environment of Qatar, viz., Anastatica hierochuntica and Aerva javanica; (ii) the antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activities of various solvent extracts of these plants; (iii) a report on the isolation of several pure compounds from these plants. The phytochemical screening indicated the presence of glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, phenol and anthraquinones in various extracts of each of the plants. Antibacterial and antioxidant activities were studied using agar diffusion and DPPH methods, respectively. The extracts of Anastatica hierochuntica as well as Aerva javanica inhibit the growth of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial species. Various extracts of the two plants also exhibited higher or similar antioxidant activities as those of the standard antioxidants, α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid. The extracts of these plants were further purified by HPLC and characterized by IR and NMR techniques. This process has led to identification of β-sitosterol, campesterol and methyl-9-(4-(3,4-dihydroxy-1′-methyl-5′-oxocyclohexyl)-2-hydroxycyclohexyl)nonanoate from Anastatica hierochuntica, and lupenone, betulinic acid, lupeol acetate and persinoside A and B from Aerva javanica. The results reported herein suggests that Anastatica hierochuntica and Aerva javanica are potent sources of phytomedicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mold Monascus, also called red yeast rice, anka, or koji, has been used as the natural food coloring agent and food additives for more than 1000 years in Asian countries. It has also been used in Chinese herbology and traditional Chinese medicine due to its easing digestion and antiseptic effects. However, under different culture conditions, the ingredients in Monascus-fermented products may be changed. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the ingredients, as well as the bioactivities of Monascus-derived natural products, is important. Here, through the thorough investigation into the chemical constituents of M. purpureus wmd2424, five previously undescribed compounds, monascuspurins A–E (1–5), were isolated from the EtOAc extract of mangrove-derived fungus Monascus purpureus wmd2424 cultured in RGY medium. All the constituents were confirmed via HRESIMS and 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy. Their antifungal activity was also evaluated. Our results showed that four constituents (compounds 3–5) possessed mild antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Penicillium italicum, Candida albicans, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is worth mentioning that the chemical composition of the type strain Monascus purpureus wmd2424 has never been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives have attracted considerable attention in the pharmacological profiling of therapeutic drug targets. The present article reveals the development of arylidene-based quinazolin-4(3H)-one motifs as potential antimicrobial drug candidates.Methods: The synthetic pathway was initiated through thermal cyclization of acetic anhydride on anthranilic acid to produce 2-methyl-4H-3,1-benzoxazan-4-one 1, which (upon condensation with hydrazine hydrate) gave 3-amino-2-methylquinazolin-4(3H)-one 2. The reaction of intermediate 2 at its amino side arm with various benzaldehyde derivatives furnished the final products, in the form of substituted benzylidene-based quinazolin-4(3H)-one motifs 3a–l, and with thiophene-2-carbaldehyde to afford 3 m. The purified targeted products 3a–m were effectively characterized for structural authentication using physicochemical parameters, microanalytical data, and spectroscopic methods, including IR, UV, and 1H- and 13C-NMR, as well as mass spectral data. The substituted arylidene-based quinazolin-4(3H)-one motifs 3a–m were screened for both in silico and in vitro antimicrobial properties against selected bacteria and fungi. The in silico studies carried out consisted of predicted ADMET screening, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies. Furthermore, in vitro experimental validation was performed using the agar diffusion method, and the standard antibacterial and antifungal drugs used were gentamicin and ketoconazole, respectively.Results and discussion: Most of the compounds possessed good binding affinities according to the molecular docking studies, while MD simulation revealed their levels of structural stability in the protein–ligand complexes. 2-methyl-3-((thiophen-2-ylmethylene)amino) quinazolin-4(3H)-one 3 m emerged as both the most active antibacterial agent (with an minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 1.95 μg/mL) against Staphylococcus aureus and the most active antifungal agent (with an MIC value of 3.90 μg/mL) against Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Rhizopus nigricans.

Chemical investigation of Penicillium sp. GDGJ-N37, a Sophora tonkinensis-associated fungus, yielded two new azaphilone derivatives, N-isoamylsclerotiorinamine (1) and 7-methoxyl-N-isoamylsclerotiorinamine (2), and four known azaphilones (3–6), together with two new chromone derivatives, penithochromones X and Y (7 and 8). Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic data, CD spectrum, and semi-synthesis. Sclerotioramine (3) showed significant antibacterial activities against B. subtilis and S. dysentery, and it also showed most potent anti-plant pathogenic fungi activities against P. theae, C. miyabeanus, and E. turcicum.

Fusarium oxysporum, a primary soil-borne fungus that affects rice seedlings globally, is responsible for rice seedling blight (RSB), which reduces seedling quality and survival rates. The synthetic fungicides used to treat this disease negatively affect human health and the environment. A biocontrol bacterial isolate, Bacillus velezensis Bv S3, isolated from the rice rhizosphere, showed a strong antagonistic effect on RSB-causing F. oxysporum. The ratio of the longest to the shortest radius of F. oxysporum following Bv S3 inoculation was 2.52 (cm/cm) in a plate standoff experiment. This was different from the other biocontrol strains. Bv S3 exhibits a wide spectrum of antifungal activity against various pathogenic fungi that cause RSB. When 10% Bv S3 liquid culture filtrate was applied, it dramatically reduced F. oxysporum spore germination and mycelial growth, with inhibition rates of 66.7%, and 45.7%, respectively, and caused hyphal malformations. Furthermore, the Bv S3 suspension (1 × 108 CFU/mL) reduced RSB by 65.5% and 76.5% in pot experiments, effectively promoted the growth of rice seedlings, and improved the activities of neutral phosphatase, urease, invertase, and catalase in rice rhizosphere soil. The active substances produced by Bv S3 were sensitive to temperature and ultraviolet irradiation, and the antifungal effect significantly increased after 90 min of exposure, with antifungal effect observed at pH 7. Bv. S3 effectively reduced the incidence of RSB and showed potential as a biocontrol agent.

The phytochemical study of the ethanolic extract of the leaf of Xeroderris stuhlmannii led to the isolation of five hitherto unreported compounds including two isoflavones (1–2), and three rotenoids (3–5), along with eight known isoflavonoid derivatives (6–13) and one pterocarpan derivative (14). The structures of the new compounds and those of the known ones were established by the spectroscopic (1D and 2D NMR) and spectrometric (HRESIMS) techniques as well as a comparison of their spectroscopic data with those reported in the literature. The leaf extract, fractions, and isolated compounds were tested for their antibacterial effects against nine bacterial strains. Compounds 3, 8, 11, and 12 showed a significant antibacterial effect, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 62.5 µg/mL each, against Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Klessiella pneumonae, and Escherichia coli, respectively. In addition, the leaf extract, fractions, and isolated compounds were tested for their antifungal effects against four fungal strains. The hexane fraction showed a significant antifungal effect with an MIC value of 125 µg/mL against Candida parasilosis, whereas compounds 3, 8, and 12 showed significant antifungal activity with an MIC value of 62.5 µg/mL, each against Candida parasilosis, Candida albicans, and Candida krusei, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, green synthesis of silver-nanoparticle (AgNPs) is demonstrated using plant extract of Vitex negundo. Plant extract through six different solvents, including petroleum ether, benzene, chloroform, acetone, methanol, and water, was prepared and further investigated for its antimicrobial and antifungal activities using different bacterial and fungal strains. The phytochemical analysis was performed, where saponins, tannins, steroids, flavonoids and glycosides were detected in acetone, chloroform and methanolic extract. Subsequent analysis of synthesized AgNPs through dynamic light scattering suggested that particle sizes were 10-300 nm in size. The study indicated that the chloroform, acetone, and methanol extracts of Vitex negundo showed good inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis based on the zone of inhibition. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized AgNPs suggested that it can inhibit the growth of both gram +ve and gram -ve microorganisms. The MIC value of AgNPs of methanolic extract of V. negundo detected was 0.078 mg/mL, which was relatively lower than that of the MIC value of its crude extract (1.25mg/mL). The observed MIC values concluded that the synthesized AgNPs had better antimicrobial activity and could be necessary for various applications, including medicine, biology, and industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a straightforward method for the construction of tetrazole derivatives has been achieved through Pd‐catalyzed isocyanide insertion reactions, which is a good extension for the response of multi‐molecule isocyanides. The Ugi‐N3 reaction was introduced to the transformation to enrich the diversity of skeleton structures. The commercially available starting materials and moderate to good yields make this method a valuable tool for generating N‐containing heterocyclic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven new compounds, including three isocoumarins (1–3), three pyrrolidinone derivatives (8–10), and one pentaene diacid (15), together with 13 known compounds, were isolated from the rice culture of the endophytic fungus Fusarium decemcellulare F25. Their structures and stereochemistry were established using HRESIMS, NMR, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The possible biosynthetic pathways for compounds 1–3 and 8–10 were proposed. The antifungal efficacies of compounds 1 ̶ 20 were evaluated against Colletotrichum musae, and compounds 13, 14, and 17 exhibited inhibitory activities against C. musae with MIC values of 256, 64 and 128 μg/mL, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Morocco, the endemic Artemisia herba-alba is well known by its traditional uses and health benefits. The search for natural, safe, and effective antibacterial and antifungal agents from plants is in high demand due to microbial and fungal resistance to conventional synthetic antibiotics and antifungal drugs. In this study, the A. herba-alba was collected from the region of Fez-Boulemane during the periods of March, June, and September. Essential oils (EOs) were extracted from the aerial part of the plant by the hydrodistillation method. The chemical constituents were determined using GC-MS as analytical tools. The antimicrobial activities of different oils were tested using the macrodilution method. The results showed the difference in the yields between the three EOs (0.49, 1.74, 1.30% (mL/100 g)), respectively, as well as in their corresponding chemical compositions. The main constituents revealed by GC-MS are higher contents of oxygenated monoterpenes (84.7, 84.4, 81%), such as cis chrysanthenyl acetate (30, 26.7, 27.6%), β-thujone (23.2, 12.9, 15.4%), camphor (9.76, 14.3, 15.8%), chrysanthenone (2.4, 1, 14%), 1,8-cineole (1.5, 11.7, 11.8%), trans β-dihydroterpineol (7.8, 7.2, 6.9%), α-thujone (4.8, 3, 5.4%), and sesquiterpenic davanone (3.9, 1.5, 1.4%), respectively. The three EOs biological activities' results showed significant antimicrobial effects against four bacteria tested (E. coli, B. subtilis, S. aureus, M. luteus), with the MIC values ranging from 0.1 to 0.03% (v/v), as well as interesting antifungal effects on both wood rot fungi against four fungi examined (G. trabeum, P. placenta, C. puteana, C. versicolor) and molds against three microorganisms tested (A. niger, P. digitatum, P. expansum), with MIC values ranging from 0.2 to 0.03% (v/v) and 0.4 to 0.03% (v/v), respectively. The June and September EO samples showed more potent activities than those collected during March. Our research findings showed quantitative variability in both EO contents and chemical compositions, which could be due to the phenological stages, climatic conditions of growth, and harvesting periods. The potent results of the antimicrobial/antifungal activities were provided by the EOs of June and September and might be correlated to the contribution and synergism effect of all oxygenated monoterpenes. These results support the possible application of A. herba-alba EOs as natural and safe antibacterial agents, and an effective alternative to synthetic drugs, enabling the prevention and treatment of certain pathogenic infections in food and health, and the preservation of wood alteration against fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our continued search for bioactive metabolites from cultures of rare Actinobacteria resources from all over Taiwan and various natural ecological environments, an active antimicrobial strain of Acrocarpospora punica 04107M was collected in Taitung County in Taiwan and prepared from soil. The bioassay-guided fractionation of the BuOH extract of a culture broth from A. punica 04107M led to the isolation of five previously undescribed compounds: Acrocarposporins A–E (Compounds 1–5). All the constituents were confirmed by HRESIMS and 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy. Their antifungal activity was also evaluated. Our results showed that four constituents (Compounds 1, 2, 4, and 5) possessed mild antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Penicillium italicum, Candida albicans, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is worth mentioning that the chemical composition of Acrocarpospora punica 04107M has never been studied. This is the first report on diterpenoid metabolites from the genus Acrocarpospora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternaria leaf blight, caused by the fungus Alternaria dauci, is the most damaging foliar disease of carrot. Some carrot genotypes exhibit partial resistance to this pathogen and resistance Quantitative Trait Loci (rQTL) have been identified. Co-localization of metabolic QTL and rQTL identified camphene, α-pinene, α-bisabolene, β-cubebene, caryophyllene, germacrene D and α-humulene as terpenes potentially involved in carrot resistance against ALB. By combining genomic and transcriptomic analyses, we identified, under the co-localization regions, terpene-related genes which are differentially expressed between a resistant and a susceptible carrot genotype. These genes include five terpene synthases and twenty transcription factors. In addition, significant mycelial growth inhibition was observed in the presence of α-humulene and caryophyllene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although plants don't have chitins, they produce chitinases to protect themselves from biotic and abiotic stressors. There are two forms of chitinases found in organisms: glycosyl hydrolase 18 (GH18) and 19 (GH19) families. Plant GH19 chitinases are well known for their role in protecting against pathogens, but the roles of GH18 chitinases have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to produce and characterise two recombinant GH18 chitinases from Metroxylon sagu. Two GH18 chitinase genes, MsChi1 and MsChi2, were identified, with nucleotide sequences of 1009 and 1308 bp, respectively. The proteins encoded by MsChi1 and MsChi2 genes were single polypeptide chains of 310 and 300 amino acids with predicted molecular masses of 31.21 and 30.15 kDa, respectively. Both cDNAs were cloned and expressed in the GS115 strain of Pichia pastoris. Recombinant MsChi1 and MsChi2 exhibited optimal activity at 60 °C with acidic pH 4.0 and 5.0, respectively. Both recombinant enzymes could hydrolyze synthetic and natural substrates (colloidal chitin). rMsChi1 preferred 4-nitrophenol N , N′ -diacetyl-β-D chitobioside, while rMsChi2 preferred 4-nitrophenol N , N′ , N″ -triacetyl-β-D chitotriose, suggesting they might function as exochitinase and endochitinase, respectively. They also demonstrated antifungal activities against tested fungi. Homology modeling indicated ASP and GLU as essential residues for proton donation and acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• M23 inhibits the growth of the citrus melanose pathogen Diaporthe citri. • M23 possesses lipopeptide biosynthesis genes. • Lipopeptide extracts of M23 impair fungal development in D. citri. • M23 has potential as a biocontrol agent against D. citri. Citrus melanose, caused by Diaporthe citri , is one of the most prevalent and important fungal diseases of citrus crops globally. However, the overuse of chemical fungicides for disease control has an adverse impact on citrus production. In contrast, biological control agents (BCAs) are environmentally friendly and have become essential tools for plant disease control. In the present study, Bacillus subtilis M23, a strain isolated from healthy citrus leaves, significantly suppressed the mycelial growth of D. citri , the causal agent of citrus melanose, in vitro. The fermentation broth of B. subtilis M23 also exhibited good antifungal activity against D. citri on citrus plants in greenhouse and field experiments. Lipopeptides (LPs) produced by M23 exhibited excellent antifungal activity against D. citri , with a 50 % effective concentration (EC 50) of approximately 1.00 and 0.28 μg/mL for inhibition of mycelial growth and conidial germination, respectively. LP biosynthesis genes were identified in the M23 genome using a PCR assay. Notably, LP extracts significantly reduced the formation of pycnidia and ATP biosynthesis in D. citri. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed significant differences in the expression of genes associated with fungal vacuole, oxidoreductase activity and endopeptidase activity in D. citri treated with B. subtilis M23. Both RNA-seq and RT-qPCR analysis provided similar results on the expression of selected genes. Collectively, our data provided convincing data supporting the biocontrol potential of B. subtilis M23 for the management of citrus melanose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating environmental repercussions of pesticide use in pest and disease management underscore the urgency for alternative strategies. One promising avenue involves harnessing natural antifungal properties present in plant extracts. This study aimed to assess the antifungal efficacy of aqueous and ethanolic extracts from five medicinal plants, viz., C. sativa L., S. moorcraftiana L., S. nigrum L., F. vesca L., and R. pseudoacacia, which were screened for their antifungal activity against various soil-borne fungi, viz., A. niger , A. flavus , A. terreus , R. stolonifer, M. mucedo, F. oxysporum, A. alternata, P. notatum, C. cladosporioides, and C. lunata. Phytochemical analysis exhibited the presence of phenols, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, quinines, and terpenoids. Results revealed potent antifungal activity across all tested fungi, significantly inhibiting mycelial growth compared to control. S. nigrum and C. sativa extracts exhibited the highest efficacy against multiple fungal pathogens. The inhibition in mycelial growth in ethanolic and aqueous plant extracts of C. sativa against A. niger varies between 3.00 mm to 6.00 mm and 4.00 mm–6.33 mm, against A. flavus 3.33 mm–11.66 mm and 4 mm–12.66 mm, A. terreus (3.00 mm–6.00 mm and 3.66 mm–7.00 mm), R. stolonifer (3.00 mm–5.33 and 3.66 mm–6.33 mm), M. mucedo (8.33 mm–17.66 mm and 9.66 mm–18.66 mm), F. oxysporum (6.66 mm–12.33 mm and 7.33 mm–13.33 mm), A. alternata (4.66 mm–11.33 mm and 5.33 mm–14.00 mm), P. notatum (9.33 mm–23.00 mm and 9.66 mm–24.33 mm), C. cladosporioides (4.33 mm–8.66 mm and 5.33 mm–9.66 mm), and C. lunata (14.00 mm–20.33 mm and 17.00 mm–21.33 mm) in different concentrations of plant extracts respectively. Likewise, the inhibition in mycelial growth in ethanolic and aqueous plant extracts of S. nigrum against A. niger at different concentrations varies between 8.00 mm to 17.66 mm and 9.00 mm–18.66 mm, A. flavus (8.33 mm–12.66 mm and 9 mm–14 mm), A. terreus (2.33 mm–5.66mm and 3 mm–7 mm), R. stolonifer (13.33 mm–20.33 mm and 17.66 mm–24.66 mm), M. mucedo (10.66 mm–12.00 mm and 11.66 mm–13.00 mm), F. oxysporum (15.66 mm–22.33 and 18.00 mm–24.00 mm), A. alternata (10.66 mm–13.00 mm and 11.66 mm–14.00 mm), P. notatum (5.33 mm–13.33 mm and 6.33 mm–18.66 mm, C. cladosporioides (3.33 mm–7.66 mm and 4.00 mm–8.00 mm), and C. lunata (3.66 mm–6.33 mm and 4.66 mm–6.66 mm), respectively. These findings suggest that these plant extracts have the potential to be natural fungicides, providing promising alternatives for disease management in agriculture. • Escalating environmental consequences of pesticide usage prompt search for alternatives. • Study investigates antifungal properties of extracts from five medicinal plants viz, Cannabis sativa, Salvia moorcraftiana, Solanum nigrum, Fragaria vesca , Robinia pseudoacacia. • Target fungi: Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus terreus, Rhizopus stolonifer, Mucor mucedo, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria alternata, Penicillium notatum, Cladosporium cladosporioides, and Curvularia lunata. • Solanum nigrum and Cannabis sativa extracts most effective; Robinia pseudoacacia least effective. • Potential for these plant extracts as natural fungicides, offering alternative disease management methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Infection by fungal pathogens is the main factor leading to postharvest rot and quality deterioration of fruit and vegetables. Rotting caused by Alternaria alternata is a concerning disease for numerous crops in both production and postharvest stages, especially tomato black spots. In this study, the double Petri dish assay showed that the VOCs of Ceratocystis fimbriata WJSK-1 and Mby inhibited the mycelial growth of fungal pathogen A. alternata, with a percentage inhibition of 52.2% and 42.9%. Then, HS-SPME-GC-MS technology was used to analyze the volatiles produced by two strains of C. fimbriata (WJSK-1, Mby), a total of 42 volatile single components were obtained, the main volatiles compounds identified include nine esters, 10 ketones, five alcohols, four aldehydes, three aromatic hydrocarbons, three heterocycles, four alkenes, three alkanes, and one acid. After that, the antifungal activity of a single volatile component was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo, four single components with antifungal effects were screened out, namely, benzaldehyde, nonanal, 2-Phenylethanol and isoamyl acetate, with IC50 values show the smallest values for benzaldehyde and nonanal at 0.11 μL mL−1, 0.04 μL mL−1. A. alternata exposed to VOCs had abnormal morphology for hyphae, delayed sporulation, and inhibited spore germination. In vivo experiment shows that the four volatile components can effectively suppress disease incidence on fungal-inoculated fruit; the two aldehydes (benzaldehyde and nonanal) have more prominent effect on delaying fruit onset of disease. The results showed that VOCs produced by C. fimbriata have potential as a fumigant for controlling black rot in cherry tomatoes. IMPORTANCE In this research, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced based on C. fimbriata exhibited strong antifungal activity against the fungal pathogen A. alternata. Our aim is to explore their bacteriostatic components. HS-SPME-GC-MS technology was used to analyze the volatiles produced by the C. fimbriata strain (WJSK-1, Mby). Postharvest cherry tomato fruit black rot caused by A. alternata was treated both in vitro and in vivo, with pure individual components produced by C. fimbriata. The benzaldehyde, nonanal, 2-Phenylethanol, and isoamyl acetate from C. fimbriata can effectively inhibit growth of A. alternata, and delay disease. It has the potential to be developed as a new type of fumigant, a potential replacement for fungicides in the future.

Punica granatum is an important source of bioactive drugs and has been used in folk medicine for many centuries. This paper describes the in vitro antifungal activity of pomegranate peel aqueous and alcoholic extracts against Aspergilus flavus and aspergillus niger seeds storage fungi. The yield of aqueous and alcoholic extract obtained from the peel of the tested plant is interesting and its inhibitory effects indicate a certain effect in biological control against the bio-aggressors of the crops and stored foodstuffs. This work was undertaken to valorise the different type of extracts studies of peel of pomegranate as sources of polyphenols and natural antioxidants, as well as, the FTIR spectroscopy analysis was performed to identify the function of punicalagins and ellagic acid, which are the main antifungal compounds. The screening of peel pomegranate revealed the presence of bioactive compounds: flavonoids, phenols, tannins, anthocyanins and saponosides. The methanol extracts of the plants indicated the highest values of total phenolic (16.35 ± 1.06 mg GAE/g DW), flavonoids (3.96 ± 0.56 mg QE/g DW), and tannin (7.59 ± 0.65 mg CE/g DW). The evaluation of the antioxidant activities demonstrated a strong antioxidant activity of pomegranate for all extracts tested. In vivo tests established the efficacy of treatments in controlling aspergilus flavus and aspergilus niger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neobalanocarpus heimii (Cengal) is from the family Dipterocarpaceae. It is a long-lasting wood that is also one of the most robust timbers in the world. This species is native to Peninsular Malaysia and southern Thailand. In this study, the Cengal heartwood was studied concerning the amount of water extractive content with antifungal properties from the Neobalanocarpus heimii. The dilution method was used to test the antifungal properties. Wood meals samples were subjected to the sequential extractive beginning with hexane followed by dichloromethane, methanol and water. The extracts were collected and underwent evaporation by using rotary evaporator to obtain pure crude extract. The antifungal activities were determined using agar dilution method. Two selected fungi Trametes versicolor (T. versicolor) and Coniophora puteana (C. puteana) were used. The antifungal index (%) which compares the diameter of the growth zone for the experimental plate and control plate was calculated. The total percentage of yield from Neobalanocarpus heimii was 0.28%. The highest antifungal index obtained for Trametes versicolor (T. versicolor) was 81.22%, while C. puteana was 43.24%. The crude extracts from Neobalanocarpus heimii were effective in inhibiting the growth of Trametes versicolor and Coniophora puteana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]