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Evaluation of cellulase production by endophytic fungi isolated from young and mature leaves of medicinal plants using maize cob substrate

Summary

This research studied beneficial fungi living inside the leaves of medicinal plants (neem and aloe) to see if they could produce cellulase enzymes, which are used in many industries. Scientists isolated 11 different fungi from plant leaves and tested their ability to break down corn cobs (agricultural waste) to produce these useful enzymes. Two fungi species – G. candidum and C. stellimalicola – were found to be the best enzyme producers, suggesting they could be used commercially to make cellulase enzymes in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way.

Background

Endophytic fungi in medicinal plants produce useful therapeutic compounds and enzymes, particularly cellulases. However, cellulase enzyme production in endophytic fungi of Azadirachta indica and Aloe secundiflora has not been comprehensively explored. The study addresses the need for cost-effective enzyme production using agrowaste substrates.

Objective

To isolate and identify endophytic fungi from young and mature leaves of A. indica and A. secundiflora, determine colonization frequency, and evaluate and optimize cellulase production by the endophytic fungi using maize cob media.

Results

Candida boidinii, Galactomyces candidum, and Candida stellimalicola produced the highest amounts of Fpases and endoglucanases. High exoglucanase producers were Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, G. candidum, and C. stellimalicola. G. candidum and C. stellimalicola yielded significantly high amounts of total cellulases, endoglucanases and exoglucanases.

Conclusion

Endophytic communities within A. indica and A. secundiflora are diverse and vary by region. Maize cob agrowaste media successfully cultivates cellulase production in these fungal endophytes. The endophytes can be harnessed and optimized for commercial cellulase enzyme production, particularly G. candidum and C. stellimalicola isolates.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40404787, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-94864-8
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