Media Optimization of Antimicrobial Activity Production and Beta-Glucan Content of Endophytic Fungi Xylaria sp. BCC 1067

Summary

This research focused on optimizing the growth conditions of a medicinal fungus called Xylaria to produce valuable compounds that can fight harmful microbes and boost immune health. The scientists developed a simple two-step cultivation method that produced more fungal material in less time while maintaining its beneficial properties. The fungal extract contains high levels of beta-glucans (beneficial compounds for immune health) and shows promise for treating both fungal infections and acne-causing bacteria. Impacts on everyday life: • Could lead to new natural treatments for fungal infections and acne • Provides a sustainable source of immune-boosting beta-glucans for health supplements • Demonstrates an efficient way to produce natural antimicrobial compounds • May help reduce reliance on synthetic antibiotics and antifungal drugs • Could lower production costs of fungal-based therapeutic products

Background

Fungi are an untapped resource for drug discovery and production of pharmaceuticals, but slow growth and poor product yields have hindered their industrial utilization. Xylaria species are known to produce various bioactive compounds including antifungal agents, but little is known about the bioactivity of Xylaria sp. BCC 1067 mycelial fraction.

Objective

To optimize culture conditions for enhanced mycelial biomass production and antimicrobial activity of Xylaria sp. BCC 1067 through media selection and a media replacement approach. Additionally, to evaluate the beta-glucan content and broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties of the mycelial extract.

Results

The media replacement approach reduced cultivation time by 7 days and yielded 4-fold increased mycelial mass (32.59 g/L) with approximately 3-fold increased antifungal activity against S. cerevisiae. The mycelial extract contained high levels of β-glucan (115.84 mg/g of cell dry weight) and showed additive antibacterial effects against P. acnes when combined with citric or salicylic acid. YES media produced highest biomass while MEB media showed best antimicrobial activity.

Conclusion

The optimized media replacement strategy successfully enhanced both mycelial biomass production and antimicrobial activity of Xylaria sp. BCC 1067 in reduced cultivation time. The mycelial extract contains valuable beta-glucans and shows promise as a source of natural antimicrobial compounds. This simple optimization approach allows for effective investigation and utilization of health-promoting substances from this fungal species.
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