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Transcriptome Analysis of Dimethyl Fumarate Inhibiting the Growth of Aspergillus carbonarius

Summary

Researchers found that dimethyl fumarate, a chemical preservative, can effectively stop the growth of a common fruit fungus called Aspergillus carbonarius that causes rot and produces a harmful toxin in grapes. By studying how the fungus responds to this treatment at the genetic level, scientists discovered that the chemical damages the fungus’s protective outer layer and interferes with its ability to develop and reproduce. This research could lead to better ways to preserve fruit and prevent toxin contamination in the food industry.

Background

Aspergillus carbonarius is a major postharvest pathogen affecting fruits, particularly grapes, and produces ochratoxin A (OTA), posing significant economic and health risks. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is known for its antifungal properties with low toxicity and high efficiency. However, its specific antifungal mechanism against A. carbonarius remains largely unknown.

Objective

This study aimed to elucidate the antifungal mechanism of dimethyl fumarate against A. carbonarius through transcriptomic analysis. The research explored how DMF inhibits fungal growth and identifies key pathway-related genes involved in this process.

Results

DMF demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of A. carbonarius mycelial growth, achieving complete inhibition at 50 μg/mL on PDA and 75 μg/mL on grapes. Transcriptomic analysis identified 987 up-regulated and 415 down-regulated genes, with significant disruption of cell integrity genes (chiB up-regulated, chitin synthase genes down-regulated) and development-related genes (LaeA down-regulated). SEM confirmed mycelial deformation, shrinkage, and loss of structural integrity.

Conclusion

Dimethyl fumarate inhibits A. carbonarius growth by disrupting cell integrity, inhibiting mycelium development, altering conidiophore structure, and disturbing secondary metabolism. These findings provide a scientific foundation for applying DMF in the food industry to control A. carbonarius and prevent ochratoxin A contamination.
  • Published in:Toxins (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40711150, DOI: 10.3390/toxins17070339
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