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Optimization of triterpenoids biosynthesis in Athelia termitophila as a source of natural products

Summary

Researchers optimized growing conditions for a fungus found in termite nests to dramatically increase production of triterpenoids, naturally-occurring compounds with potent health benefits. Using statistical methods to test different nutrients and conditions, they nearly doubled triterpenoid production and mycelial biomass. These findings could make triterpenoid-based medicines and supplements more affordable and widely available by improving natural production methods.

Background

Athelia termitophila (TMB) is a parasitic fungus inhabiting termite nests that naturally produces only trace amounts of triterpenoids, which are bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential. Triterpenoids exhibit anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and hepatoprotective properties with extensive pharmaceutical and functional food applications. Enhanced production through optimized fermentation processes is essential for industrial-scale applications.

Objective

This study aimed to optimize the culture medium composition and cultivation parameters to augment both triterpenoids biosynthesis and TMB biomass production. The researchers sought to identify key culture components and conditions through systematic experimentation and statistical design methods.

Results

Optimal conditions were determined as: 30 g/L corn starch, 13.44 g/L yeast extract powder, 4.74 g/L KH2PO4, 130/250 mL liquid-to-volume ratio, 6% inoculum volumes, and 7.8 days cultivation. Under optimized conditions, triterpenoids yield increased 1.9-fold (50.21 mg/130 mL) and mycelial biomass increased 1.66-fold (2.23 g/flask) compared to unoptimized medium.

Conclusion

This study successfully optimized culture conditions for TMB to enhance triterpenoids production and mycelial biomass through combined statistical design methods. The findings provide a robust methodology for enhancing natural product biosynthesis in fungi and contribute novel insights into triterpenoid production, facilitating broader commercialization of natural triterpenoid-based pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products.
  • Published in:AMB Express,
  • Study Type:Optimization Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40186813, DOI: 10.1186/s13568-025-01840-6
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