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Study on the inhibitory mechanism of fig leaf extract against postharvest Fusarium in melon

Summary

Researchers discovered that fig leaves contain natural compounds that can prevent fruit rot caused by Fusarium fungus in melons. When applied to infected melons, the fig leaf extract kills the fungus by damaging its cell membranes and overwhelming it with harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species. This natural treatment could replace chemical fungicides that harm the environment and leave residues on food, offering a safer way to preserve melons during transport and storage.

Background

Melon is a major cash crop with significant postharvest losses due to fungal pathogens, particularly Fusarium species. More than 15% of Brazilian melons are lost to Fusarium fruit rot during export. Plant-derived fungicides offer an alternative to chemical treatments that cause environmental pollution and pesticide residues.

Objective

To explore the fungistatic mechanism of fig leaf extract against Fusarium and to provide a theoretical basis for developing new plant-derived fungicides for postharvest melon disease control.

Results

Fig leaf extract showed significant inhibitory effects on Fusarium species. Electron microscopy revealed cell membrane damage, cytoplasmic leakage, and nuclear fragmentation. Extract treatment increased H2O2 production, MDA content, and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, POD, CAT). Metabolomic analysis identified 1,540 secondary metabolites, with flavonoids (15.45%), phenolic acids (15%), and alkaloids (10.71%) as major fungicidal components.

Conclusion

Fig leaf extract disrupts Fusarium cell membrane integrity, inhibits protein synthesis, and induces oxidative stress through ROS accumulation. High levels of bioactive compounds like 1,3,7,8-tetrahydroxy-2-prenylxanthone, 8-hydroxyquinoline, and azelaic acid support its potential development as a natural plant-derived fungicide for postharvest melon preservation.
  • Published in:PeerJ,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17654, PMID: 39071129
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