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Antifungal effects of metabolites from Arthrinium sp. 2–65 and identification of main active ingredients

Summary

Scientists discovered that a fungus called Arthrinium sp. 2–65, found living inside a wild plant called Thymus mongolicus, produces two special compounds that can kill the fungus responsible for grey mould disease. Grey mould is a major problem for farmers worldwide, damaging crops like tomatoes, grapes, and strawberries. These newly identified compounds were tested and showed excellent effectiveness against the disease, offering a promising natural alternative to chemical pesticides that have become less effective due to resistance and environmental concerns.

Background

Plant diseases cause over $220 billion in annual economic losses globally, with fungal pathogens responsible for 30% of these losses. Grey mould caused by Botrytis cinerea is particularly devastating, affecting over 1400 plant species and causing 25-55% crop losses. Chemical fungicides are increasingly restricted due to food safety, environmental, and resistance concerns.

Objective

To evaluate the antifungal activity of endophytic fungus Arthrinium sp. 2–65 isolated from Thymus mongolicus and to identify and characterize its main active metabolites against pathogenic fungi, particularly Botrytis cinerea.

Results

Arthrinium sp. 2–65 demonstrated broad-spectrum antagonistic activity with inhibition rates >60% against most pathogens. The crude extract showed 87.65% inhibitory activity against B. cinerea in vitro. Two main compounds were isolated and identified as 2-hexyl-3-methylmaleic anhydride (A) and 2-carboxymethyl-3-n-hexylmaleic acid anhydride (B), both maleic anhydride derivatives.

Conclusion

Compounds A and B isolated from Arthrinium sp. 2–65 showed satisfactory inhibitory effects against B. cinerea and other pathogenic fungi. These maleic anhydride derivatives have potential as novel molecules for developing new pesticides to control grey mould in agricultural applications.
  • Published in:BMC Microbiology,
  • Study Type:In vitro and in vivo experimental study,
  • Source: PMID: 41039238, DOI: 10.1186/s12866-025-04194-y
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