MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Screening of Basidiomycete Strains Capable of Synthesizing Antibacterial and Antifungal Metabolites

Summary

Researchers tested 18 different types of wood-decay fungi (basidiomycetes) to see if they could produce natural antibiotics and antifungal compounds. They found that 16 of the 18 strains successfully produced antimicrobial substances. Five strains were particularly promising, showing strong activity against dangerous bacteria including antibiotic-resistant strains. The study identified specific chemical compounds from these fungi that could potentially be developed into new medicines.

Background

Basidiomycetes represent approximately 28-40% of fungal diversity and possess rich secondary metabolism. While antimicrobial properties of basidiomycetes have been studied since the 1940s, many species remain insufficiently studied. This work focuses on screening submerged cultures of basidiomycetes for antimicrobial metabolite production.

Objective

To evaluate the antimicrobial activity of 18 submerged cultures of basidiomycetes belonging to three orders (Agaricales, Polyporales, and Russulales), select the most promising strains producing antimicrobial metabolites, and conduct preliminary assessment of their metabolic profiles.

Results

Of 18 strains tested, 16 (89%) produced antimicrobial metabolites. Five strains were selected as most promising: Hericium corraloides 4 showed both antibacterial and antifungal activity; Fomitopsis betulina 3, F. pinicola 2, H. erinaceus 1, and Laetiporus sulphureus 4 exhibited strong antibacterial activity. HPLC-MS identified hericerin in H. erinaceus 1 and sulfureuine H in L. sulphureus 4.

Conclusion

Basidiomycetes from orders Polyporales and Russulales demonstrated higher antimicrobial activity than Agaricales. Exometabolites showed greater activity than endometabolites. The most active strains produce compounds effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, making them promising sources for novel antimicrobial agents.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:Screening Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41097066, DOI: 10.3390/ijms26199802
Scroll to Top