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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

Researchers tested an extract made from grapevine pruning waste to see if it could stop harmful fungi and the toxins they produce. The extract, rich in natural compounds called stilbenoids, successfully reduced growth and toxin production in three dangerous fungi that contaminate crops. The effects were strong enough that scientists believe this agricultural waste could become a natural alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting crops.

Background

Grapevine canes, an abundant viticultural by-product, contain high levels of stilbenoids and phenolic compounds with potential antifungal properties. Three mycotoxigenic fungi—Fusarium graminearum, Aspergillus flavus, and Penicillium expansum—produce significant mycotoxins (trichothecenes, aflatoxins, and patulin) that threaten global crop production and human health.

Objective

To evaluate the antifungal and antimycotoxigenic activity of grapevine cane extract (GCE) obtained via microwave-assisted hydro-ethanolic extraction against three mycotoxigenic fungi and to assess the extract’s effects at different fungal developmental stages.

Results

Growth inhibition IC50 values ranged from 1.0 to 5.0 g/L across all fungi, while specific toxin production IC50 values were lower (≈0.5 g/L), except patulin which increased dose-dependently. F. graminearum showed strong germination inhibition and persistent DON suppression; A. flavus showed moderate germination inhibition but strong AFB1 suppression; P. expansum showed patulin elevation despite growth inhibition.

Conclusion

Grapevine cane extract demonstrates significant antifungal and antimycotoxigenic potential against three major mycotoxigenic fungi, with species-specific responses and persistent effects persisting after extract removal. The extract appears to primarily target secondary metabolism regulation rather than merely limiting biomass, suggesting promise as a natural biocontrol agent.
  • Published in:Toxins (Basel),
  • Study Type:In Vitro Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41003518
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