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Bioactivity of Volatile Organic Compounds Produced by Pseudomonas tolaasii

Summary

This research investigated how bacteria that cause disease in mushrooms produce airborne chemicals that can either harm or help plant growth. The findings have important implications for agriculture and food production. Key impacts on everyday life: – Could lead to new environmentally-friendly alternatives to harmful soil fumigants – May help improve mushroom cultivation and reduce crop losses – Potential development of new natural plant growth stimulants for agriculture – Better understanding of how bacteria interact with plants and fungi in soil – Could influence methods for storing and transporting fresh mushrooms

Background

Pseudomonas tolaasii is the main bacterial pathogen causing brown blotch disease in several economically important edible mushrooms. While tolaasins are known virulence factors, the role of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by P. tolaasii in pathogenicity and plant interactions remains unclear.

Objective

To investigate the production, identity and biological effects of volatile compounds produced by P. tolaasii strains on mushroom mycelia, basidiome tissues, and plant seedlings.

Results

P. tolaasii strains produced several volatile compounds including methanethiol, dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), and 1-undecene. In non-sealed conditions, bacterial volatiles inhibited mushroom mycelia growth and caused tissue discoloration. In sealed conditions, mycelia growth was stimulated. The volatiles also inhibited lettuce and broccoli seedling growth. Pure methanethiol and DMDS showed dose-dependent toxicity, while lower doses of DMDS and 1-undecene stimulated plant growth.

Conclusion

P. tolaasii produces volatile organic compounds that can significantly affect mushroom and plant growth. Methanethiol, DMDS and 1-undecene were identified as key volatiles with both inhibitory and stimulatory effects depending on concentration and test conditions. These compounds may represent new virulence factors and have potential applications as soil fumigants or plant growth stimulants.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.01082
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