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Metabolic profiling of endophytic fungi acting as antagonists of the banana pathogen Colletotrichum musae

Summary

Scientists found three special fungi living inside rainforest plants in the Philippines that can fight the fungus causing banana rot. These endophytic fungi produce chemical compounds that stop the disease-causing fungus from growing, offering a natural alternative to traditional fungicides. The researchers found that the type of growing medium affects which compounds these fungi produce, and two promising strains could potentially be used to reduce fruit losses during storage and transport.

Background

Endophytic fungi isolated from rainforest plants in the Philippines are being investigated as potential biological control agents against Colletotrichum musae, which causes anthracnose disease in bananas during postharvest storage and transport. Frequent fungicide applications create environmental concerns and pathogen resistance, necessitating biological control alternatives.

Objective

The study aimed to isolate and identify fungal endophytes from Mount Makiling rainforest plants that can inhibit C. musae growth under in vitro and in vivo conditions, and to examine how different potato dextrose medium types influence the secondary metabolites and volatile organic compounds produced by these strains.

Results

All tested endophytes significantly reduced C. musae growth compared to control. Twelve volatile metabolites were detected, with benzaldehyde being the most prominent. Five VOCs (2-heptanone, 2-nonanone, 2-undecanone, 2-tridecanone, and phenylethyl-alcohol) were emitted from all fungal species, and 80-90% of 388 detected metabolic signals differed significantly between commercial and natural media.

Conclusion

The endophytic strains Phomopsis sp. and Fusarium proliferatum show promise as biocontrol agents for reducing postharvest decay in bananas. Medium type significantly affects fungal metabolism and secondary metabolite production, with these findings supporting further development of these strains as alternatives to fungicide applications.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39854577
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