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In Vitro Screening of the Antifungal and Antimycotoxin Effects of a Stilbenoids-Rich Grapevine Cane Extract on Fusarium graminearum, Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium expansum

Summary

This study tested a natural extract from grapevine pruning waste to see if it could stop three dangerous fungi that produce harmful toxins in crops. The extract worked well at stopping both fungal growth and toxin production, with effects that lasted even after the extract was removed. These results suggest that grapevine waste could be turned into a natural fungicide to protect crops from contamination.

Background

Grapevine cane is an abundant viticultural by-product containing high levels of stilbenoids with potential antifungal and antimycotoxigenic properties. Three major mycotoxigenic fungi—Fusarium graminearum, Aspergillus flavus, and Penicillium expansum—pose significant threats to global crop production and food safety.

Objective

This study evaluated the antifungal and antimycotoxigenic activity of grapevine cane extract (GCE) produced via microwave-assisted hydro-ethanolic extraction against three mycotoxigenic fungi. The research aimed to determine optimal extract concentrations for inhibiting fungal growth and mycotoxin production across different physiological stages.

Results

Growth inhibition IC50 values ranged from 1.0-5.0 g/L for all fungi, while specific toxin production IC50 values were lower at approximately 0.5 g/L, except patulin which increased dose-dependently. F. graminearum spore germination was strongly inhibited at 5.0-15 g/L, while other fungi showed only delayed germination. Antifungal and antimycotoxigenic effects persisted after extract exposure cessation.

Conclusion

GCE demonstrates promising antifungal and antimycotoxigenic potential against all three tested fungi through species-specific mechanisms. The extract’s ability to suppress mycotoxin production at subinhibitory growth concentrations and maintain persistent effects suggests potential as a natural biocontrol agent for crop protection.
  • Published in:Toxins (Basel),
  • Study Type:In Vitro Experimental Study,
  • Source: 41003518
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