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Esterase and Peroxidase Are Involved in the Transformation of Chitosan Films by the Fungus Fusarium oxysporum Schltdl. IBPPM 543

Summary

Scientists discovered that a common fungus called Fusarium oxysporum can modify chitosan films (made from a natural polymer related to shellfish shells) without destroying them. The fungus produces special enzymes that change the structure of the films, making them stronger and less soluble in acidic solutions. These modified films could be useful for creating new medical devices, drug carriers, and other materials.

Background

Chitosan is a biopolymer with antibacterial and film-forming properties used in biotechnological applications. Most studies focus on chitosanase enzyme production for destructive hydrolysis. This research explores non-destructive transformation of chitosan films by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum.

Objective

To identify structural and physicochemical transformations of chitosan films with molecular weights of 200, 450, and 530 kDa after growth of F. oxysporum IBPPM 543. The study aims to develop methods for obtaining materials with new functional properties through fungal modification without destroying polymer integrity.

Results

F. oxysporum actively grew on chitosan films without destroying them, with increased film porosity and thickness. FTIR spectra revealed oxidation and crosslinking without glycosidic bond cleavage. Crystallinity increased (44-57%), solubility decreased, and mechanical properties were altered. Extracellular esterase, peroxidase, and biosurfactants were produced.

Conclusion

F. oxysporum transforms chitosan through specific enzymatic mechanisms involving esterase and peroxidase without breaking β-(1,4)-glycosidic bonds. This approach enables development of chitosan-based biomaterials with novel functional properties for biotechnological applications.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof11080565, 40863518
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