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Biocontrol Potential of a Mango-Derived Weissella paramesenteroides and Its Application in Managing Strawberry Postharvest Disease

Summary

Researchers discovered a beneficial bacterium called Weissella paramesenteroides that naturally lives on mango fruit and can protect strawberries from fungal diseases during storage. The bacterium works by releasing special chemicals in the air called volatile organic compounds that prevent mold growth without direct contact. This provides a natural, food-safe alternative to synthetic fungicides for keeping fresh fruit fresher longer.

Background

Postharvest fungal diseases cause significant fruit spoilage and economic losses, particularly in perishable commodities like strawberries. Synthetic fungicides have been traditionally used but face limitations including chemical residues, environmental contamination, and pathogen resistance. Biocontrol using antagonistic microorganisms offers a promising alternative to chemical fungicides.

Objective

To isolate and evaluate a food-safe biocontrol agent from a natural fruit source, characterize its antifungal mechanism, and assess its practical application in managing postharvest fruit decay in strawberries. The study focused on identifying and validating volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as the primary antifungal mechanism.

Results

Strain R2 exhibited strong antagonistic activity against Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and Fusarium oxysporum. VOCs, not cell-free fermentation broth, were responsible for antifungal activity. GC-MS identified 84 VOCs with pyrazines as the dominant class (51%). Three major compounds (2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, and 2-furanmethanol) showed potent antifungal activity. R2 VOCs significantly reduced disease incidence in strawberries, with 65% remaining symptom-free compared to 30% in controls.

Conclusion

W. paramesenteroides R2 is a promising, food-safe biocontrol agent for postharvest disease management through VOC-mediated mechanisms. The identification and validation of specific inhibitory compounds provide a mechanistic basis for future development of natural, food-safe antifungal strategies in postharvest disease management.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40985435, DOI: 10.3390/jof11070538
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