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A novel, cheap and easy preparing selective medium for isolation of Pythium species

Summary

Scientists developed an affordable and effective way to grow and study harmful Pythium fungi that cause crop diseases and infections in animals. The new FANS medium uses inexpensive antibiotics that are safer and cheaper than previous methods, making it accessible to researchers worldwide, especially in developing countries. This advancement helps researchers better understand and develop treatments for diseases caused by Pythium species in both agriculture and medicine.

Background

Isolation of Pythium and Globisporangium species from natural sources is difficult due to heavy microbial contamination. Previous selective media (VP3, NARM, NARF) contain expensive and potentially toxic antibiotics that are difficult to obtain globally, particularly in developing countries.

Objective

To develop a new, affordable, and safe selective medium called FANS (Fluconazole + Ampicillin + Nystatin + Sulbactam) for isolating Pythium and Globisporangium species from their natural sources while inhibiting contaminating microorganisms.

Results

FANS medium supported the highest mycelial growth, zoospore formation, and oospore production for all three tested Pythium species compared to other media. FANS completely inhibited growth of contaminating bacteria (Bacillus, Serratia, Staphylococcus) and fungi (Fusarium, Trichoderma, Penicillium, Rhizopus), and cost significantly less than previous selective media formulations.

Conclusion

FANS is a superior, cost-effective, and safe selective medium for isolating Pythium species from natural sources. This affordable tool is particularly valuable for researchers in developing countries and supports sustainable biotechnology initiatives for disease control and research.
  • Published in:AMB Express,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/s13568-025-01946-x, PMID: 41082101
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