antimicrobial compounds

Lactic acid bacteria: beyond fermentation to bio-protection against fungal spoilage and mycotoxins in food systems

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Mold and fungal toxins spoil food and threaten human health, costing billions globally. While chemical preservatives work, many consumers want natural alternatives. Lactic acid bacteria (the same organisms used in yogurt production) produce natural antimicrobial compounds that can prevent mold growth and neutralize harmful toxins, offering a safer, more natural way to keep food fresh longer.

The biocontrol potential of endophyte Bacillus velezensis to reduce post-harvest tomato infection caused by Rhizopus microsporus

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Researchers tested a naturally occurring bacteria called Bacillus velezensis as a safe alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting tomatoes from rot-causing mold. The bacteria produces special compounds that can kill or slow down the growth of Rhizopus microsporus, a fungus that commonly spoils tomatoes after harvest. While the results show promise, the effectiveness varied depending on which specific strain of bacteria and mold was used, suggesting more research is needed to fine-tune the approach.

Draft Genome Sequence of the Coprinoid Mushroom Coprinopsis strossmayeri

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Scientists sequenced the complete genetic blueprint of Coprinopsis strossmayeri, a mushroom that lives in dung. By analyzing its genome, they discovered the mushroom produces multiple types of chemical compounds with antimicrobial properties that could be useful for developing new medicines. The research highlights how fungi living in competitive environments like dung have evolved to produce substances that could benefit human health through pharmaceutical applications.

Four Unrecorded Species of Endophytic Diaporthe (Sordariomycetes) in Korea

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Researchers in Korea discovered four types of fungi living inside plants without causing harm, called endophytic fungi. These fungi belong to a genus called Diaporthe and were identified using DNA analysis and microscopic examination. The study helps us understand the hidden diversity of fungi living in Korean plants and could lead to discovering new medicines or ways to control plant diseases.

Essential Oils as an Antifungal Alternative for the Control of Various Species of Fungi Isolated from Musa paradisiaca: Part I

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Researchers tested six essential oils from common kitchen herbs to see if they could prevent banana spoilage caused by fungi. They found that cinnamon oil was especially effective, stopping fungal growth at relatively low concentrations. This research suggests that natural essential oils could replace harsh chemical fungicides in farming, making bananas safer for consumers and better for the environment.

Essential Oils as an Antifungal Alternative to Control Several Species of Fungi Isolated from Musa paradisiaca: Part III

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This study tested six common essential oils (from oregano, thyme, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, and basil) to see if they could stop five types of fungi that spoil bananas after harvest. Thyme oil worked best, completely stopping fungal growth at the highest concentration tested. Cinnamon and oregano oils also worked well at moderate concentrations. These natural oils could replace synthetic fungicides and help keep bananas fresher longer during storage and transport.

Novel secondary metabolite from a new species of Hypoxylon saxatilis sp. nov. for suppressing bacterial wilt in tomato

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Scientists discovered a new type of fungus called Hypoxylon saxatilis that produces a natural compound called tetrahydrofuran. This compound effectively kills the bacteria that cause tomato plants to wilt and die. When used on tomato plants in the greenhouse, this fungal extract reduced disease severity by over 83%, offering a safer, environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for protecting crops.

The Biocontrol and Growth-Promoting Potential of Penicillium spp. and Trichoderma spp. in Sustainable Agriculture

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This review examines how two types of beneficial fungi, Penicillium and Trichoderma, can improve crop growth and protect plants from diseases without using chemical pesticides. These fungi work by colonizing plant roots, producing natural compounds that boost plant health, and fighting harmful pathogens. They are affordable, safe, and environmentally friendly alternatives for sustainable farming that can increase yields while reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and fungicides.

Four Unrecorded Species of Endophytic Diaporthe (Sordariomycetes) in Korea

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Researchers in Korea discovered four previously unknown species of Diaporthe fungi living inside plant tissues without causing visible damage. These fungi were identified using genetic analysis and compared to known species from around the world. The findings show that Korea has more fungal diversity than previously documented and suggest these fungi could potentially be used to develop new medicines or help control plant diseases.

Streptomyces-Based Bioformulation to Control Wilt of Morchella sextelata Caused by Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola

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Researchers isolated two beneficial bacteria strains (Streptomyces) from soil around morel mushrooms that can effectively fight a fungal disease causing morel wilting. These bacteria produce natural compounds that kill the disease-causing fungus while also promoting healthier mushroom growth. When used in field tests, these bacterial treatments reduced disease and increased morel yield by nearly 30% compared to untreated crops, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides.

Research Keyword: antimicrobial compounds