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2-Nonanol produced by Bacillus velezensis EM-1: a new biocontrol agent against tobacco brown spot

Summary

Researchers discovered that a beneficial bacterium called Bacillus velezensis produces a natural compound called 2-nonanol that effectively kills the fungus causing brown spots on tobacco leaves. This compound works by disrupting the fungus’s ability to obtain energy and handle stress. Testing on tobacco leaves showed that 2-nonanol could significantly reduce disease development. This discovery offers a promising environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting tobacco crops.

Background

Tobacco brown spot disease, caused by Alternaria alternata, is a major fungal disease affecting tobacco production. Traditional chemical fungicide control methods raise concerns about environmental impact and pathogen resistance. Bacillus velezensis EM-1 produces volatile organic compounds with antifungal properties.

Objective

To identify the specific antifungal volatile compounds produced by Bacillus velezensis EM-1 against A. alternata and elucidate their molecular mechanisms of action against tobacco brown spot disease.

Results

2-Nonanol was identified as the most potent antifungal compound with an EC50 of 0.1055 μL/cm³ and MIC of 0.2166 μL/cm³. In vivo experiments showed 69.37% reduction in lesion expansion on tobacco leaves. Transcriptome analysis revealed 2-nonanol downregulated carbon metabolism genes and antioxidant enzyme expression while inducing oxidative stress.

Conclusion

2-Nonanol from B. velezensis EM-1 shows promise as a biocontrol agent for tobacco brown spot disease by disrupting fungal carbon metabolism and antioxidant defenses. The findings support further development of volatile organic compounds as environmentally friendly biocontrol products.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40371117
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