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Defense Response and Suppression of Phytophthora Blight Disease of Pepper by Water Extract from Spent Mushroom Substrate of Lentinula edodes

Summary

This research demonstrates how waste material from mushroom cultivation can be recycled into an effective natural treatment for plant diseases. Scientists found that water extract from spent shiitake mushroom growing material could protect pepper plants from a devastating fungal disease while also promoting plant growth. The extract works through multiple mechanisms including directly inhibiting the pathogen and stimulating the plant’s natural defense systems. Impacts on everyday life: – Provides an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides – Offers a way to recycle agricultural waste into useful products – Could help reduce crop losses and improve food security – Demonstrates sustainable farming practices – May lead to development of new natural plant protection products

Background

Phytophthora blight disease, caused by Phytophthora capsici, is a chronic disease in pepper crops in Korea that caused 69-82% reduction in yield and quality in 2003. While chemical fungicides can control the disease, their overuse leads to environmental pollution and resistant pathogen strains. Alternative biological control methods are needed.

Objective

To investigate the protective effect of water extract from spent mushroom substrate (WESMS) of Lentinula edodes against Phytophthora blight disease of pepper and identify potential antifungal compounds. Additionally, to examine the plant’s defense response through resistance gene expression when treated with the water extract.

Results

WESMS inhibited mycelial growth of P. capsici by 65% and contained oxalic acid as the main organic acid. Treatment suppressed Phytophthora blight disease in pepper by 64% and promoted plant growth by 40%. WESMS treatment significantly enhanced expression of defense genes CaBPR1, CaBGLU, CaPR-4, and CaPR-10, and increased salicylic acid content 4-6 fold compared to controls.

Conclusion

L. edodes WESMS effectively suppresses Phytophthora blight disease of pepper through multiple mechanisms including direct antifungal activity, defense gene induction, and plant growth promotion. This suggests WESMS could provide an eco-friendly disease control method while recycling agricultural waste.
  • Published in:The Plant Pathology Journal,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.5423/PPJ.OA.02.2017.0030
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