Oregano essential oil can effectively prevent blue mold rot in pears without compromising fruit quality. The oil works by damaging the fungal cell membrane, causing it to leak and die. Additionally, the treatment helps pears stay fresher longer by reducing water loss and maintaining firmness, while naturally boosting the fruit’s own defense systems against damage.
Researchers sequenced the complete genome of a mold called Penicillium paneum that produces a toxic substance called patulin, which contaminates apples and pears. They found all 15 genes responsible for making patulin and discovered the mold has similar genetic patterns to other patulin-producing fungi. This information could help scientists develop better ways to prevent patulin contamination on fruit crops and improve food safety.
Scientists sequenced the genome of a pear fungus called Penicillium paneum that produces patulin, a toxic compound found in moldy apples and pears. By analyzing its genetic blueprint, researchers identified 33 different toxin-producing gene clusters, with special focus on the 15 genes responsible for patulin production. The findings reveal which genes P. paneum uses to make patulin and how they compare to other fungal species, potentially helping develop better ways to prevent patulin contamination in fruit and fruit products.