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Plant Natural Products as Antimicrobials for Control of Streptomyces scabies: A Causative Agent of the Common Scab Disease

Summary

This research investigated natural plant compounds as potential treatments for common scab disease in potatoes, a significant agricultural problem worldwide. The study found that certain plant extracts and flavonoids (natural compounds found in many plants) can effectively kill the bacteria that cause this disease. This discovery could lead to safer, natural alternatives to conventional antibiotics in agriculture. Impacts on everyday life: • Could lead to better quality potatoes with fewer blemishes in grocery stores • May reduce food waste due to improved crop protection • Offers potential for safer, natural agricultural treatments • Could help lower food costs by reducing crop losses • Provides environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic pesticides

Background

The common scab disease caused by Streptomyces scabies is an economically important disease affecting potatoes and other tuber crops globally. Current treatments are ineffective, leading to significant economic losses. The development of antibiotic resistance and limited new antibiotic discovery has created a need for alternative antimicrobial treatments, particularly in agricultural settings.

Objective

To screen plant extracts and flavonoids for their effectiveness in inhibiting Streptomyces scabies growth and to characterize their mechanisms of action against this pathogen.

Results

Seven plant tinctures showed over 75% inhibition of S. scabies growth: myrrh, garlic, cayenne, barberry, frankincense, wild indigo root, and lavender. Among flavonoids, sophoraflavanone G, jaceosidin, baicalein, and quercetin were most effective. Sophoraflavanone G was the most potent with LD50 of 2.0 μM and MIC of 6.8 μM. Electron microscopy revealed that these compounds cause significant membrane damage and cell death through membrane destabilization.

Conclusion

The identified flavonoids, particularly sophoraflavanone G, show strong potential as natural antibiotic alternatives for controlling S. scabies growth. These compounds act through a bactericidal mechanism involving cell membrane disruption, leading to cell death. The findings suggest these natural products could be effective treatments for common scab disease in agricultural applications.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.833233
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