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The Antimicrobial Extract Derived from Pseudomonas sp. HP-1 for Inhibition of Aspergillus flavus Growth and Prolongation of Maize Seed Storage

Summary

Researchers discovered that a beneficial bacterium called Pseudomonas sp. HP-1 can produce a natural compound that effectively prevents mold contamination in stored maize seeds. The extract from this bacterium showed strong antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus, a major cause of aflatoxin contamination in grain storage. The main protective compound was identified as phenazinecarboxylic acid, which works by damaging the cell membranes of fungal cells. This finding offers a promising eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemical fungicides for protecting stored crops.

Background

Maize is highly susceptible to mycotoxin contamination during storage, causing significant post-harvest losses. Traditional chemical fungicides raise environmental and health concerns while promoting fungal resistance. Biological control methods using antimicrobial metabolites from microorganisms offer sustainable alternatives to synthetic fungicides.

Objective

To investigate the antimicrobial activity of Pseudomonas sp. HP-1 isolated from Peganum harmala L., evaluate its efficacy in protecting maize seeds from Aspergillus flavus contamination, and identify the major antifungal compounds produced by this strain.

Results

PHE exhibited strong antifungal activity with inhibition zones of 40.07 mm against Penicillium italicum and 23.10 mm against Aspergillus flavus. At 16 mg/mL concentration, PHE achieved 90.3% inhibition of A. flavus mycelial growth. The primary active compound was identified as 1-phenazinecarboxylic acid through spectroscopic analysis. PHE treatment significantly reduced A. flavus contamination in maize seeds during storage.

Conclusion

Pseudomonas sp. HP-1 culture extract represents a promising sustainable antifungal agent for protecting maize seeds against mycotoxin-producing fungi. The identification of 1-phenazinecarboxylic acid as the main bioactive compound explains the antimicrobial mechanism through cellular membrane disruption. PHE can be effectively applied as a seed protectant with potential commercial viability.
  • Published in:Foods,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40428553, DOI: 10.3390/foods14101774
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