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Four Novel Antibacterial Sesquiterpene-α-Amino Acid Quaternary Ammonium Hybrids from the Mycelium of Mushroom Stereum hirsutum

Summary

Scientists discovered four new antibacterial compounds from a mushroom called Stereum hirsutum, which is traditionally used in Chinese medicine and food. These compounds are unique hybrid molecules that can effectively kill harmful bacteria. This research validates traditional knowledge about this mushroom’s medicinal properties. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides scientific evidence supporting traditional use of medicinal mushrooms • Could lead to new natural antibacterial treatments for food preservation • May help develop new medicines to fight bacterial infections • Demonstrates the potential of mushrooms as sources of beneficial compounds • Supports the value of preserving traditional knowledge about medicinal fungi

Background

The mushroom Stereum hirsutum is parasitized by Tremella aurantia to form a heterogeneous basidiocarp Jin’er, which has been traditionally used as food and folk medicine in Chinese society. The fermented mycelia of S. hirsutum have been reported to produce abundantly active secondary metabolites, including phytotoxic active acetylenic compounds, multiple active sesquiterpenoids, antibacterial epidioxysterols, and benzoate derivatives.

Objective

To explore the potential production of biologically active metabolites from S. hirsutum FP-91666 using the OSMAC (one strain-many compounds) strategy to maximize chemical diversity and isolate novel compounds.

Results

Four novel mixed terpenes, stereumamides A-D (1-4), were isolated. These compounds are sesquiterpenes combined with α-amino acids forming quaternary ammonium hybrids. Stereumamides A and D showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium, with MIC values of 12.5-25.0 μg/mL.

Conclusion

The stereumamides A-D represent the first naturally occurring quaternary ammonium compounds conjugated by sesquiterpene with an α-amino acid. The presence of these antibacterial agents in the mycelium of Stereum hirsutum supports its traditional use as both a functional food and folk medicine.
  • Published in:Fitoterapia,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1016/j.fitote.2018.05.026
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