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Transcriptome Analysis of Dimethyl Fumarate Inhibiting the Growth of Aspergillus carbonarius

Summary

Researchers studied how a chemical called dimethyl fumarate stops the growth of a dangerous fungus (Aspergillus carbonarius) that damages grapes and produces a toxin called ochratoxin A. By analyzing which genes were turned on and off when the fungus was exposed to this chemical, they found that it works by damaging the fungus’s cell walls and disrupting its normal development. This discovery could help protect fruit crops and food safety by providing a natural and non-toxic way to prevent mold growth.

Background

Aspergillus carbonarius is a significant postharvest pathogen affecting fruits, particularly grapes, and is a major producer of ochratoxin A (OTA), causing substantial economic losses and health risks. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is a chemical compound known for its low toxicity and high antifungal efficiency, but its antifungal mechanism against A. carbonarius remains largely unknown.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the antifungal mechanism of dimethyl fumarate fumigation on A. carbonarius growth through transcriptomic analysis and scanning electron microscopy, elucidating the functions of key pathway-related genes.

Results

A total of 1,402 differentially expressed genes were identified, including 987 up-regulated and 415 down-regulated genes. Dimethyl fumarate demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of A. carbonarius mycelial growth, achieving complete inhibition at 50 μg/mL on PDA plates. Key mechanisms included disruption of cell integrity, down-regulation of cell wall synthesis genes (chsA, chsC, xgeA, neg1), down-regulation of secondary metabolism regulator LaeA, and up-regulation of cell wall degradation genes (chiB).

Conclusion

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