Physiological Mechanism Beneath the Inhibition of Cleome spinosa Against the Morphology and Reproduction of Fusarium oxysporum

Author: mycolabadmin
2023-11-20
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Summary

This research investigated how extracts from the Cleome spinosa plant can naturally control harmful fungi that cause plant diseases. The study found that C. spinosa extract effectively stops the growth and reproduction of Fusarium oxysporum, a destructive fungus that causes wilting in crops like cucumbers. The extract works by damaging the fungus’s cell structure and disrupting its normal biological functions. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides a natural alternative to chemical pesticides for controlling plant diseases • Could help farmers reduce crop losses and grow healthier produce • Supports more environmentally friendly and sustainable farming practices • May lead to safer food production with fewer chemical residues • Could reduce agricultural costs by offering an accessible, plant-based disease control option

Background

Fusarium oxysporum is a soil-borne plant pathogen that can survive in soils for long periods and is difficult to control. It restricts plant development and crop production, causing significant agricultural losses and producing carcinogenic mycotoxins that threaten human health and food safety. Biofumigation has emerged as a prevalent and environmentally friendly strategy for controlling Fusarium wilt, helping to decrease chemical pesticide use and avoid environmental pollution while promoting beneficial soil microorganisms.

Objective

To explore the physiological mechanism underlying the inhibitory activity of Cleome spinosa extracts against the morphology and reproduction of Fusarium oxysporum, specifically examining effects on colony growth, spore formation, mycelial morphology, and physiological indices.

Results

C. spinosa extract significantly reduced F. oxysporum colony diameter by 89.7% and dry mass by 78.9% under the 45 mg/mL treatment. Spore number decreased by 73.5% and germination rate decreased by 83.0%. Microscopy revealed significantly reduced mycelia with wizened appearance, rough surfaces and increased bending. The extract impaired osmotic adjustment ability and antioxidant systems, leading to membrane injury and electrolyte leakage.

Conclusion

C. spinosa extract effectively inhibits F. oxysporum growth and reproduction through multiple mechanisms including damage to mycelial morphology, impairment of osmotic balance and antioxidant systems, resulting in membrane injuries and electrolyte leakage. These findings suggest potential applications for C. spinosa as a botanical pesticide for preventing vegetable diseases.

Published in:Heliyon,
Study Type:Laboratory Experimental Study,
Source: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22622