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Enhancement of Mycelial Growth and Antifungal Activity by Combining Fermentation Optimization and Genetic Engineering in Streptomyces pratensis S10

Summary

Scientists improved a soil bacterium called Streptomyces pratensis S10 that fights a serious wheat disease called Fusarium head blight. They used two strategies: first, they optimized the growth medium using statistical methods to produce more bacteria with stronger antifungal powers, and second, they used genetic engineering to remove a gene that was limiting its disease-fighting ability. The result was a bacteria strain that is much more effective at controlling this crop disease.

Background

Streptomyces pratensis S10 is a biocontrol strain isolated from tomato leaf mold that can effectively control Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum. However, its practical application has been limited by low biomass yield and prolonged fermentation periods.

Objective

This study aimed to improve the antifungal activity and biomass production of S. pratensis S10 by integrating fermentation optimization using statistical design methods with genetic engineering strategies to enhance biocontrol efficacy against FHB.

Results

Optimized fermentation medium increased mycelial dry weight from 2.13 g/L to 8.12 g/L and antifungal activity against F. graminearum from 67.36% to 82.2%. The ΔtetR mutant showed enhanced growth and antifungal activity, with mycelial biomass reaching 11.53 g/L in optimized medium. Biocontrol efficacy against FHB was significantly improved with 74.70% disease control efficacy.

Conclusion

The integration of fermentation optimization and genetic engineering successfully enhanced the production of bioactive compounds in S. pratensis S10. The tetR gene functions as a negative regulator of bioactive compound biosynthesis, and optimized fermentation conditions provide favorable growth environments. This approach establishes a foundation for large-scale bioactive metabolite production and sustainable FHB management.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMC12388169, 40871447
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