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Fourier Transform Infrared Microscopy and Imaging: Detection of Fungi in Wood

Summary

This research introduces a new way to detect and identify wood-destroying fungi using infrared light technology. This advancement allows scientists to spot fungal infections in wood earlier and more accurately than traditional methods. Impact on everyday life: • Better protection of wooden structures in buildings through earlier detection of decay • More effective preservation of wooden cultural heritage items • Improved quality control in timber industry • Cost savings through early intervention in wood decay • Enhanced safety in wooden constructions through better monitoring

Background

Early detection and identification of wood-decaying fungi is challenging, with infections often only identified at advanced stages of decay. Traditional methods like morphological identification through fruiting bodies are limited and not always reliable. While newer molecular approaches exist, they don’t provide precise information on fungal localization within wood.

Objective

To evaluate the potential of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy and imaging techniques for localizing and identifying fungi within wood samples. The study aimed to detect and discriminate between two wood-decaying fungi (Trametes versicolor and Schizophyllum commune) in experimentally infected beech wood blocks.

Results

The study successfully demonstrated that FTIR microscopy could detect and differentiate between fungal mycelia of different species within wood samples. Cluster analysis revealed major differences between FTIR spectra from wood fibers and empty vessel lumina compared to mycelium spectra. The technique showed species-specific clustering of spectra from fungal mycelium whether grown on wood surfaces or inside vessel lumina.

Conclusion

FTIR microscopy proves to be an effective technique for detecting and identifying fungi in wood samples. The method successfully discriminated between different fungal species and provided precise information about fungal localization within wood structures, demonstrating its potential as a diagnostic tool for early detection of wood decay.
  • Published in:Fungal Genetics and Biology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1016/j.fgb.2005.06.003
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