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Effect of Pseudomonas protegens EMM-1 Against Rhizopus oryzae in Interactions with Mexican Autochthonous Red Maize

Summary

Mexican red maize, an important traditional crop, is threatened by a fungus called Rhizopus oryzae that causes root damage and wilting. Researchers found that a beneficial bacterium, Pseudomonas protegens EMM-1, can effectively stop this fungal infection and help maize plants grow better. Tests showed the bacterium reduced fungal growth by over 80% and improved plant root development when grown together with the fungus.

Background

Autochthonous red maize is culturally and nutritionally important in Mexico but is threatened by fungal infections. Rhizopus oryzae has been isolated from infected maize seeds and causes seedling damage. Pseudomonas protegens is known to produce antimicrobial compounds effective against fungal pathogens.

Objective

To isolate and characterize a fungal strain causing damage to red autochthonous maize and to evaluate the ability of Pseudomonas protegens EMM-1 to inhibit this fungus under both in vitro and in vivo conditions. The study also aimed to analyze the genome of P. protegens EMM-1 for antimicrobial compound production.

Results

P. protegens EMM-1 inhibited R. oryzae EMM growth with 83.1% inhibition at 96 hours in dual-plate assays and 84.37% inhibition in liquid medium. In hydroponic systems, root dry weight increased from 0.19g to 0.43g with combined treatment. P. protegens EMM-1 successfully colonized plant roots and suppressed fungal colonization in both hydroponic and vermiculite systems.

Conclusion

P. protegens EMM-1 effectively inhibits R. oryzae EMM and protects red maize from fungal infection through multiple antagonistic mechanisms. Genome analysis revealed several secondary metabolite gene clusters encoding antimicrobial compounds including pyoverdine, orfamides, and 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol, supporting its potential as a biocontrol agent for maize cultivation.
  • Published in:Life (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40283109
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