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Extraction and Identification of the Bioactive Metabolites Produced by Curvularia inaequalis, an Endophytic Fungus Collected in Iran from Echium khuzistanicum Mozaff

Summary

Researchers discovered a fungus living inside an Iranian medicinal plant that produces three natural compounds with powerful antimicrobial properties. The most promising compound, phomalactone, killed dangerous bacteria including MRSA and also prevented growth of fungal plant diseases. This discovery shows that exploring symbiotic fungi in medicinal plants could lead to new natural antibiotics and agricultural fungicides.

Background

Endophytic fungi colonize internal plant tissues and serve as reservoirs of bioactive metabolites important for enhancing host plant defense mechanisms. The Iranian medicinal plant Echium khuzistanicum has been used in traditional medicine but its fungal community remained unexplored, making it a promising source for novel bioactive compounds.

Objective

To isolate and characterize bioactive metabolites produced by the endophytic fungus Curvularia inaequalis from Echium khuzistanicum, and evaluate their phytotoxic and antimicrobial properties against plant and human pathogens.

Results

Three main metabolites were identified: (R)-phomalactone (1), catenioblin A (2), and (-)-asperpentyn (3). (R)-phomalactone exhibited significant phytotoxic activity on tomato leaves and potent antibacterial activity against MRSA and other human pathogens, plus marked antifungal activity against phytopathogens. (-)-Asperpentyn showed robust selective antifungal activity, while catenioblin A had limited bioactivity.

Conclusion

The endophytic fungus Curvularia inaequalis represents a promising source of bioactive metabolites with antibacterial, antifungal, and phytotoxic properties. (R)-Phomalactone shows particular promise for development as a therapeutic agent or sustainable agrochemical, warranting further structural modification and toxicological studies.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41097293, DOI: 10.3390/molecules30193870
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