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Inhibitory Effects and Mechanisms of Perilla Essential Oil and Perillaldehyde against Chestnut Pathogen Botryosphaeria dothidea

Summary

Chestnuts often rot during storage due to fungal infection. This study found that oil extracted from perilla leaves, particularly a compound called perillaldehyde, effectively prevents the fungus Botryosphaeria dothidea from growing. The antifungal compounds work by breaking down the protective layers of the fungal cells, causing them to leak and die. When applied to stored chestnuts, this natural oil significantly extends their shelf life without harming human health.

Background

Botryosphaeria dothidea is a major plant pathogen responsible for chestnut rot during postharvest storage. Perilla essential oil (PEO) and perillaldehyde (PAE) have demonstrated antifungal properties in previous studies. This research aimed to evaluate their antifungal efficacy against B. dothidea and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Objective

To assess the antifungal properties of perilla essential oil and perillaldehyde against B. dothidea, identify the chemical composition of PEO, and investigate the antifungal mechanisms through cell wall and membrane integrity studies.

Results

PEO’s main component was identified as elemicin (48.31%). Both PEO and PAE strongly inhibited mycelial growth in a dose-dependent manner with MICs of 0.5 μL/mL for agar dilution and 0.063-0.031 μL/mL for fumigation. Antifungal mechanisms involved disruption of fungal cell wall integrity and plasma membrane, reduction of ergosterol content, and leakage of cellular contents.

Conclusion

PEO and PAE are nontoxic, eco-friendly botanical fungicides that effectively inhibit B. dothidea through cell wall and membrane disruption. PEO retains antifungal efficacy in chestnuts and extends storage life, demonstrating promise for controlling postharvest chestnut rot and potentially other crop diseases caused by B. dothidea.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39194852, DOI: 10.3390/jof10080526
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