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Inhibitive effect of Urginea epigea methanolic extract and silver/zinc oxide nanoparticles on Aspergillus and aflatoxin production

Summary

Researchers tested whether a plant called Urginea epigea could stop the growth of a dangerous fungus (Aspergillus flavus) that produces aflatoxins, which can harm humans and animals. The plant extract completely stopped fungus growth at high concentrations and significantly reduced the production of toxins by turning off the genes responsible for toxin production. This suggests that plant-based treatments could offer a natural alternative to synthetic chemical fungicides for protecting food from contamination.

Background

Food crops contaminated with Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxins pose hazards to humans and animals. Natural antifungal agents are being explored as alternatives to synthetic fungicides due to growing consumer awareness of their harmful effects. Urginea epigea, widely distributed in Southern Africa, exhibits antifungal and antioxidant properties due to the presence of phytochemicals.

Objective

This study investigated the antifungal activity of Urginea epigea bulb methanolic extract and biosynthesized silver-zinc oxide nanoparticles against toxigenic Aspergillus flavus strains. The research aimed to assess inhibition of fungal growth and aflatoxin biosynthesis gene expression.

Results

U. epigea extract achieved 100% inhibition of A. flavus growth at 50 mg/mL. PCR data showed significant downregulation of aflD and aflR genes (P < 0.005), with U. epigea causing a 50-fold decrease compared to Ag/ZnO nanoparticles. Both treatments significantly suppressed A. flavus growth and aflatoxin B1 production.

Conclusion

U. epigea methanolic extract effectively inhibited A. flavus growth and aflatoxin production through downregulation of key aflatoxin biosynthesis genes. The phytochemicals present in U. epigea demonstrate potential as an alternative antifungal agent for controlling aflatoxigenic fungi, warranting further investigation of active compounds and practical applications.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40273086, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0320454
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