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Endophytes are a type of microorganisms which live in plant tissues and have no obvious disease symptoms to plants, mainly including fungi, bacteria and actinomycètes. Endophytes can produce the same or similar active substances as host plants, so they have become a hot spot in the research of natural medicinal active products in recent years. Endophytes provide abundant resources for searching medicinal active substances because of their abundant species and huge reserves. In this paper, the species, structural characteristics, separation methods and pharmacological studies of active products of endophytic fungi were reviewed, in order to provide theoretical reference for the research of medicinal active components of endophytic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] The paper was to explore the correlation between active components of ginseng and community structure of endophytic fungi in ginseng under different cultivation methods. [Methods] Using ginsengs under two main planting patterns in Huanren County, Liaoning Province as the samples, the community structure of endophytic fungi was studied by molecular means, and the chemical components were identified and the content of chemical markers was measured via LC-MS. Moreover, the correlation between medicinal components of ginseng and diversity of endophytic fungal flora was analyzed. [Results] The diversity and active components of endophytic fungi of ginseng were different. The diversity analysis showed that the medicinal components of ginseng were positively correlated with some fungal groups in ginseng. [Conclusions] Artificial intervention in the planting process would affect the endophytic fungi in medicinal materials, and further affect the chemical components of ginseng medicinal materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have adapted a successful functional symbiosis mechanism to overcome extreme environment and for continuation of life cycle. Endophyticism is one such symbiosis which is now gaining tremendous pace in sustainable agricultural research strategy as an alternative for chemical free agriculture. An attempt was made to evaluate the potential of endophytes in alleviating drought stress and promoting early seedling growth in green gram, soybean and brinjal. Initially, endophytic fungal isolates were assayed for their ability to grow on matric modified media (PEG-8000) at ca. 0 MPa, -0.47 MPa, -1.45 MPa, -2.93 MPa, -4.92 MPa, -7.41 MPa. The nature of the response was revealed to be positive, as biomass(g) of endophytes was in proportional to induced drought stress. Then, the seedling growth of all crop systems was gauged in above mentioned PEG-8000 concentrations and LC50 (reduction in seedling length) was computed to be -2.57 MPa, -1.28 MPa, -3.38 MPa of PEG-8000 for green gram (BGS 9), soybean (KBS 23) and brinjal (Arka Harshitha), respectively. By reckoning LC50, fungal endophytes were screened for growth promotion and drought stress alleviation in above-mentioned crop systems. Green gram (BGS 9) enriched with Fusarium sp. (SF-5, K-26, V4-J), Chaetomium sp. (LAS 6) and soybean (KBS 23) enriched with Fusarium sp. (V4-J) significantly enhanced seedling growth under normal as well as PEG-8000 induced drought stress condition. In brinjal (Arka Harshitha), there was no significant difference between endophyte treated and untreated seedlings. Our results suggest that host responses to colonization were variable and depended on the host ecotype which is controlled by variability in the host and endophyte genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new phenylpentenol, wortmannine H (1) was isolated from Talaromyces wortmannii LGT-4, an endophytic fungus of Tripterygium wilfordii. The structure of 1 was elucidated by IR, MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra and comparison of the experimental and calculated optical rotatory dispersion (ORD). Monoamine oxidase (MAO), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3Kα) inhibitory activities of 1 was also tested. The compound did not show good biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species in Plectosphaerella are well known as pathogens of several plant species causing fruit, root and collar rot and collapse. In an investigation of endophytic fungi associated with cucurbit plants in China, we isolated 77 strains belonging to the genus Plectosphaerella. To identify the isolated strains, we collected the type or reference strains of all currently accepted species in Plectosphaerella except P. oratosquillae and conducted a phylogenetic analysis. Phylogenetic analysis of the partial 28S rDNA sequences showed that all species in Plectosphaerella were located in one clade of Plectosphaerellaceae. Based on multi-locus phylogenetic analysis of the ITS, CaM, EF1, TUB and morphological characteristics, all species in Plectosphaerella were well separated. Three endophytic strains from stems of Cucurbita moschata, Citrullus lanatus and Cucumis melo from North China were assigned to a new species described as P. sinensis in this paper. The new species differs morphologically from other Plectosphaerella species by irregular chlamydospores, and the dimensions of phialides and conidia. The other endophytic strains from several cucurbit plants were identified as P. cucumerina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on the vinca alkaloid produced by a novel Nigrospora sphaerica isolated from Catharanthus roseus. Through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry ( LCMS), only the crude mycelia extract of this fungus was positive for determination of vinblastine. This vinca alkaloid was then purified by using high-performance liquid chromatography ( HPLC) and tested for cytotoxicity activity using MTT assays. The breast cell line cancer ( MDA- MB 231) was treated with a purified vinblastine which was intracellulary produced by N. sphaerica. The purified vinblastine from extracted leaf of C. roseus was used as a standard comparison. A positive result with a value of half maximal inhibitory concentration ( IC50) of > 32 μg ml−1 was observed compared with standard ( IC50) of 350 μg ml−1 only. It showed that a vinblastine produced by N. sphaerica has a high cytotoxicity activity even though the concentration of vinblastine produced by this endophytic fungus was only 0.868 μg ml−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the research was to study the composition and antimicrobial, antioxidant activities of endophytes in tuberous root of Solanum tuberosum. Endophytes were isolated by using an exterior sterilisation method, classified and identified by morphological and molecular characters. Antimicrobial activities of endophytes were measured by using paper disc diffusion method. The in vitro scavenging activities on hydroxy radical and DPPH were investigated. 7 strains Gibberella moniliformis, 1 strain Diaporthe, 1 strain Alternaria nees, 1 strain uncultured and 1 strain Glomerularia sp. were isolated. Fermented liquid extracts of ethyl acetate (ACE) of 5 strains, n-butyl alcohol (BUE) of 3 strains had powerful widely antibacterial spectrum against all 6 indicator bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus licheniformis, Streptococcus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae) with the inhibition zone diameter (IZD) over than 15 mm at the concentration of 5 mg/ml, MIC values ranges measured are 0.3125-2.500 mg/ml. ACE of 4 strains and BUE of 4 strains shows notable hydroxy radical scavenging abilities, with scavenging rates of 31.15-46.68% at the concentration of 0.8 mg/ml. Endophytic strains with antimicrobial and antioxidant activities were obtained to explore the application of endophytic resources from S. tuberosum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peronema canescens, often known as sungkai, is widely used and can be found all around Indonesia. The public believes that theleaves may reduce fever and strengthen the immune system. However, the effectiveness of sungkai fruit has not been thoroughly investigated. In this research, we looked at endophytic fungus extracts from sungkai fruit’s that have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The study’s results will serve as the foundation for further investigation into the development of potential natural chemicals with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Morphologically, the endophytic fungi isolated from sungkai fruit were identified. The antioxidant and antibacterial properties of endophytic fungal extracts were studied using the DPPH technique and the paper disk diffusion method. By employing molecular identification and column chromatography to separate the active compounds, the mostlikely endophytic fungal isolates were found based on the results of the bioactivity tests. Using 1D NMR spectroscopic methods,the chemical’s structure was determined, and the results were compared to NMR data for the same compound published in theliterature. Fruit of sungkai had 8 strains of endophytic fungus (RBH1-RBH8). Strong antibacterial and very strong antioxidant activitywere shown by the RBH5 isolate (IC50< 20𝜇g/mL).Pythium periplocumwas determined to be the RBH5 isolate based on moleculartesting. Pure chemical compound extracted from RBH5 isolates shown highly potent and potent antibacterial and antioxidant effects.The chemical compound was identified by spectroscopy as 3-hydroxy-4(hydroxy(4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl)-𝛾-butyrolactone. The results of this study serve as the foundation for developing compounds as pharmaceutical raw materials via further research phases.

Pinus taeda is an important forest tree species for plantations because of its rapid growth and high yield of oleoresins. Although P. taeda plantations distribute in warm and wet southern China, drought, sometime serious and long time, often occurs in the region. To explore drought tolerance of P. taeda and usage of beneficial microorganisms, P. taeda seedlings were planted in pots and were inoculated with root endophytic fungus Serendipita indica and finally were treated with drought stress for 53 d. Metabolome and proteome of their needles were analyzed. The results showed that S. indica inoculation of P. taeda seedlings under drought stress caused great changes in levels of some metabolites in their needles, especially some flavonoids and organic acids. Among them, the levels of eriocitrin, trans-aconitic acid, vitamin C, uric acid, alpha-ketoglutaric acid, vitamin A, stachydrine, coumalic acid, itaconic acid, calceolarioside B, 2-oxoglutaric acid, and citric acid were upregulated more than three times in inoculated seedlings under drought stress, compared to those of noninoculated seedlings under drought stress. KEGG analysis showed that some pathways were enriched in inoculated seedlings under drought stress, such as flavonoid biosynthesis, ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, C5-branched dibasic acid metabolism. Proteome analysis revealed some specific differential proteins. Two proteins, namely, H9X056 and H9VDW5, only appeared in the needles of inoculated seedlings under drought stress. The protein H9VNE7 was upregulated more than 11.0 times as that of non-inoculated seedlings under drought stress. In addition, S. indica inoculation increased enrichment of water deficient-inducible proteins (such as LP3-1, LP3-2, LP3-3, and dehydrins) and those involved in ribosomal structures (such as A0A385JF23). Meanwhile, under drought stress, the inoculation caused great changes in biosynthesis and metabolism pathways, mainly including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, cutin, suberine and wax biosynthesis, and 2-oxocarboxylic acid metabolism. In addition, there were positive relationships between accumulation of some metabolites and enrichment of proteins in P. taeda under drought stress. Altogether, our results showed great changes in metabolome and proteome in inoculated seedlings under drought stress and provided a guideline to further study functions of metabolites and proteins, especially those related to drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endophytes are reported to play a role in resistance against plant pathogens. Understanding the metabolite-mediated endophytic microbiota composition in plants provides insights to improve plant stress resistance. In this study, via metabolome and microbiome analyses, we aimed to elucidate the resistance mechanism of sugarcane cultivars with high resistance to sugarcane pokkah boeng disease (PBD). The endophytic microbial composition and metabolites in the stems of various sugarcane cultivars with high resistance (HR) or high susceptibility (HS) to PBD were analyzed. Results: The results revealed that the endophytic fungi with biocontrol effects such as Shinella, Dechloromonas, and Microbacter were significantly enriched, and the abundance of pathogenic fungi such as Fusarium, Ramichloridium, Scleroramularia, Phaeosphaeriopsis, Sarocladium, Zygophiala, Gibberella, Pseudocercospora, Cyphellophora, Monocillium, Apiotrichum, Microsphaeropsis, and Scleroramularia significantly reduced in the stems of HR cultivars. Additionally, six metabolites [citric acid, isocitrate, malic acid, PC(16:0/0:0), phosphocholine, and lysoPC(16:0)] were significantly related to the endophytes in the stems of HR cultivars. Conclusions: These results suggested that more abundance of antagonistic microbes and highly active metabolic functions of endophytes in the HR cultivars were the important mechanisms underlying their higher resistance to PBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thalassia testudinum has undergone die-offs in the past century due to seagrass wasting disease caused by Labyrinthula sp. Little is known about how seagrasses resist Labyrinthula infections, but metabolites that inhibit Labyrinthula were previously extracted from seagrass leaves. Furthermore, leaf fungal endophytes from seagrasses possess antipathogenic potential, but their activity against Labyrinthula is unknown. Here, we aimed to identify whether fungal endophytes of T. testudinum can aid in disease defense against Labyrinthula. Through Illumina amplicon sequencing of the leaves' mycobiome, we identified fungi that are known to produce antimicrobials. We also isolated and extracted organic compounds from endophytes to test their anti-Labyrinthula potential using disk diffusion assays. There were 22 isolates that inhibited Labyrinthula, from which two isolates, Trichoderma sp. P1a and Diaporthe sp. M14, displayed strong inhibition. LC-HRMS/MS analysis determined the likely bioactive compounds of Trichoderma as peptaibols and of Diaporthe as cytosporone B. Cytosporone B was confirmed bioactive against Labyrinthula via disk diffusion assays. While these organisms are low in abundance in the mycobiome, this study demonstrates that seagrass endophytes have the potential to play an important role in defense against Labyrinthula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Coffee has immense value as a worldwide-appreciated commodity. However, its production faces the effects of climate change and the spread of severe diseases such as coffee leaf rust (CLR). The exploration of fungal endophytes associated with Coffea sp. has already found the existence of nearly 600 fungal species, but their role in the plants remains practically unknown. We have researched the diversity of leaf fungal endophytes in two Coffea arabica varieties: one susceptible and one resistant to CLR. Then, we conducted cross-infection essays with four common endophyte species (three Colletotrichum sp. and Xylaria sp. 1) and Hemileia vastatrix (CLR) in leaf discs, to investigate the interaction of the endophytes on CLR colonisation success and severity of infection. Two Colletotrichum sp., when inoculated 72 h before H. vastatrix, prevented the colonisation of the leaf disc by the latter. Moreover, the presence of endophytes prior to the arrival of H. vastatrix ameliorated the severity of CLR. Our work highlights both the importance of characterising the hidden biodiversity of endophytes and investigating their potential roles in the plant-endophyte interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endophytic fungus Aspergillus sp. SPH2 was isolated from the stems of the endemic plant Bethencourtia palmensis and its extracts were found to have strong fungicidal effects against Botrytis cinerea and ixodicidal effects against Hyalomma lusitanicum at different fermentation times. In this study, the fungus was grown using three different culture media and two methodologies, Microparticulate Enhancement Cultivation (MPEC) and Semi-Solid-State Fermentation (Semi-SSF), to increase the production of secondary metabolites during submerged fermentation. The addition of an inert support to the culture medium (Semi-SSF) resulted in a significant increase in the extract production. However, when talcum powder was added to different culture media, unexpected results were observed, with a decrease in the production of the biocompounds of interest. Metabolomic analyses showed that the production of aspergillic, neoaspergillic, and neohydroxyaspergillic acids peaked in the first few days of fermentation, with notable differences observed among the methodologies and culture media. Mellein production was particularly affected by the addition of an inert support to the culture medium. These results highlight the importance of surface properties and morphology of spores and mycelia during fermentation by this fungal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Endophytes refer to microorganisms residing within the endosphere of plants, particularly perennials, without inflicting noticeable injury or inducing obvious morphological variations to their host plant or host organism. Endophytic fungi, although often overlooked microorganisms, have garnered interest due to their significant biological diversity and ability to produce novel pharmacological substances. Methods: In this study, fourteen endophytic fungi retrieved were from the stem of the perennial plant Polianthes tuberosa of the Asparagaceae family. These fungal crude metabolites were tested for antagonistic susceptibility to Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) pathogens using agar well diffusion, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) assays. The chequerboard test was used to assess the synergistic impact of active extract. Results and discussion: In early antibacterial screening using the Agar plug diffusion test, three of fourteen endophytes demonstrated antagonism against Methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE). Three isolates were grown in liquid medium and their secondary metabolites were recovered using various organic solvents. Eight extracts from three endophytic fungi displayed antagonism against one or more human pathogens with diameters ranging from 11 to 24 mm. The highest antagonistic effect was obtained in ethyl acetate extract for PTS8 isolate against two MRSA (ATCC 43300, 700699) with 20 ± 0.27 and 22 ± 0.47 mm zones of inhibition, respectively, among different solvent extracts. The extract had MICs of 3.12 ± 0.05 and 1.56 ± 0.05 µg/mL, and MBCs of 50 ± 0.01 and 12.5 ± 0.04 µg/mL, respectively. Antagonism against VRE was 18 ± 0.23 mm Zone of Inhibition (ZOI) with MIC and MBC of 6.25 ± 0.25 and 25 ± 0.01 µg/mL. When ethyl acetate extract was coupled with antibiotics, the chequerboard assay demonstrated a synergistic impact against MDR bacteria. In an antioxidant test, it had an inhibitory impact of 87 ± 0.5% and 88.5 ± 0.5% in 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl and reducing power assay, respectively, at 150 µg/mL concentration. PTS8 was identified as a Xenomyrothecium tongaense strain by 18S rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing. To our insight, it is the foremost study to demonstrate the presence of an X. tongaense endophyte in the stem of P. tuberosa and the first report to study the antibacterial efficacy of X. tongaense which might serve as a powerful antibacterial source against antibiotic-resistant human infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to optimize the fermentation process of Radix Ranunculi ternate via microbial fermentation and analyze the changes in the contents of the main components, the antioxidant and hypoglycemic capacities of the extract before and after fermentation. Methods: The solid-state fermentation process was optimized using single-factor tests and the response surface method, with the yield of the alcohol extract of R. ternate as an evaluation index. Results: The best fermentation process was optimized using solid-state endophytic fungus fermentation technology as follows: strain addition ratio of Chaetomium globosum/Fusarium equiseti = 1:1, fermentation for 5 d, sieve size of 40 mesh, liquid/material ratio of 0.8:1 mL·g−1, fermentation temperature of 31 °C, and inoculation amount of 7.5%. Under the optimized conditions, the contents of the water-soluble extract and total polysaccharides decreased by 12.71% and 12.95%, respectively. In the fermentation, the contents of the ethanol-soluble extract, flavonoids, saponins, polyphenols, organic acids, and total amino acids of the fermented R. ternate increased by 19.77%, 57.14%, 79.67%, 14.29%, 17.63%, and 3.82%, respectively. The scavenging rate for DPPH, ABTS+, and ·OH free radicals and inhibitory rate for α-amylase of the fermented R. ternate also increased by 19.02%, 14.17%, 7.53%, and 34.54%, respectively, compared with the unfermented R. ternate. Conclusions: Solid-state fermentation opens new avenues for the development and application of R. ternate as a natural antioxidant and hypoglycemic food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study represents a primary investigation centered on screening six marine fungi, Emericellopsis maritima, Engyodontium album, Hypomontagnella monticulosa, Hortaea werneckii, Trichoderma harzianum, and Aspergillus sp.7, associated with the red algae Pterocladiella capillacea, which was collected from Chao-Jin Park in Keelung, Taiwan, as potential immunostimulants for shrimp aquaculture. Recognizing the imperative for novel strategies to combat pathogen resistance arising from the use of antibiotics and vaccines in aquaculture, this study aimed to evaluate the metabolomic profile, antioxidant capabilities, and antibacterial properties of marine fungi. The antibacterial activity of the fungal extract was evaluated against five major aquaculture pathogens: Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter aeruginosa, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The viability and cytotoxicity of marine fungal extracts were preliminarily evaluated using brine shrimps before assessing cytotoxicity, growth performance, immune efficacy, and disease resistance in white shrimp. The present study demonstrated that total phytochemical analysis correlated with antioxidant activity. Emericellopsis maritima and Trichoderma harzianum exhibited the strongest DPPH antioxidant scavenging activities of half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) 16.5 ± 1.2 and 12.2 ± 2.6, which are comparable to ascorbic acid. LC-HDMSE analysis of the marine fungal extracts identified more than 8000 metabolites mainly classified under the superclass level of organic oxygen compounds, Organoheterocyclic compounds, Phenylpropanoids and polyketides, alkaloid and derivatives, benzenoids, lignans and neolignans, lipid and lipid-like molecules, nucleotides and nucleosides, organic nitrogen compounds, and organic acids and derivatives. Overall, our study significantly contributes to the advancement of sustainable practices by exploring alternative antimicrobial solutions and harnessing the bioactive potential inherent in marine endophytic fungi. In conclusion, our study advances our comprehension of fungal communities and their applications and holds promise for the development of effective and environmentally friendly approaches for enhancing shrimp health and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial communities are an important component of mangrove ecosystems. In order to reveal the diversity of endophytic fungi in the mangrove ferns Acrostichum speciosum and A. aureum in China, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of endophytic fungi in four plant tissues (leaves, petioles, roots, and rhizomes) from three locations (Zhanjiang, Haikou, and Wenchang) were sequenced. The richness, species composition, and community similarity were analyzed. The main results are as follows: the dominant fungi in A. speciosum and A. aureum belonged to the phyla Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, accounting for more than 75% of the total identified fungi; in terms of species composition at the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) level, the endophytic fungi in A. aureum were more diverse than those in A. speciosum, and the endophytic fungi in rhizomes were more diverse than in other tissues. In Zhanjiang, both A. speciosum and A. aureum showed the richest diversity of endophytic fungi, both at the OTU classification level and in terms of species composition. Conversely, the richness of endophytic fungi in the samples of A. speciosum from Wenchang and Haikou is extremely low. The regional differences in dominant fungi increase with the degrading of taxonomic levels, and there were also significant differences in the number of unique fungi among different origins, with Zhanjiang samples having a larger number of unique fungi than the other locations. There were significant differences in the dominant fungi among different tissues, with Xylariales being the dominant fungi in rhizomes of A. speciosum and Hypocreales being the dominant fungi in the petioles, roots, and rhizomes of A. aureum. Overall, the community similarity of endophytic fungi among locations is moderately dissimilar (26–50%), while the similarity between tissues is moderately similar (51–75%). The low diversity of endophytic fungi could be one of the main reasons for the endangerment of A. speciosum. The protection of the diversity of endophytic fungi in the underground parts of A. speciosum is essential for the conservation of this critically endangered mangrove fern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytes represent a diverse domain of microorganisms with immense biotechnological potentialities. Metabolites from endophytes, especially fungi, are useful in industrial as well as pharmaceutical aspects. Here, endophytic fungal isolates of Andrographis paniculata collected from the Tapobon, Junglemahal region of West Bengal, India, have been studied for their hydrolyzing enzyme production abilities. Out of eighty-one isolates, twenty-one were positive for amylase, protease, lipase, laccase, and tannase action. Microscopic features of positive isolates revealed that the enzyme producers were Aspergillus sp., Fusarium sp., Alternaria sp., Trichoderma sp., Exerohilum sp., Nigrospora sp., Curvularia sp., Cladosporium sp., Cochliobolus sp., Tricothecium sp., Penicillium sp., Verticillium sp., and Cephalosporium sp. The amylolytic activity was remarkable in the case of endophytic Aspergillus sp. and Fusarium sp. Also, Aspergillus sp. and Alternaria sp. had proteolytic activity. Aspergillus sp., Mycelia sterilia-2, and Trichoderma sp. were potent lipase producers. Along with Exerohilum sp. endophytic Aspergillus sp. had positive laccase activity. The tannic acid degrading activity was highest for Aspergillus sp. APL11 followed by Helicosporium sp. and Fusarium sp. Tannase producing ability of Aspergillus sp. was optimized and an incubation time-96h, incubation temperature-29°C, initial medium pH-6.5, carbon source-glucose, and nitrogen source-NaNO3 exhibited a two-fold scale-up of (2.83±0.05 u mL-1) in tannase action. These enzymes offer eco-friendly and efficient solutions across a wide range of industrial processes including food production, textile processing, and pharmaceutical synthesis. Fungal endophytes of medicinal plants act as an alternative source for hydrolysing enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amentotaxus yunnanensis H.L.Li is a threatened conifer distributed only in China, Laos, and Vietnam, whose fungal endophytes have not been exploited yet. The aims of this study were to screen and characterize antioxidant metabolites from endophytic fungi obtained from A. yunnanensis. Using the surface sterilization method, sixteen endophytic fungi were isolated from A. yunnanensis and classified into seven genera including Fusarium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Diaporthe, Neopestalotiopsis, Purpureocillium, and Simplicillium through the analysis of Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) gene sequences. Among the ethyl acetate crude extracts, Fusarium foetens AQF6 contained the highest amount of polyphenol (117.76 ± 0.94 mg gallic acid equivalent/g) and flavonoid (169.01 ± 2.09 mg quercetin equivalent/g). Importantly, 400 µg/mL AQF6 extract exhibited 95.75 ± 1.1% and 85.66 ± 1.91% of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radical-scavenging activities, respectively. Chemical investigation led to the isolation and identification of a new bisabolane-type sesquiterpene fusafoetriol (FUS) and 14 known compounds, among which six pure compounds showed free-radical scavenging activity against DPPH and hydroxyl radicals. Under H2O2 stress, the yeast model Saccharomyces cerevisiae treated with 4 mM FUS showed 43.31% increase in viability. FUS has the potential to be applied in nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and food technological applications. Thus, this is the first report demonstrating the presence of endophytic fungi inhabiting A. yunnanensis and their potential as a prolific source of antioxidant metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diplodia tip blight, caused by Diplodia sapinea (=Sphaeropsis sapinea), are widely distributed in Honghuaerji, Inner Mongolia, China, causing severe damage on natural Mongolian pine (Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica). D. sapinea is an endophyte that becomes pathogenic under conditions of drought, hail damage, or temperature-associated stress. The role of the endophytic community inhabiting different pine tissues in the expression of disease is still unknown. In this study, the diversity and community structure of endophytic fungi among asymptomatic and symptomatic Mongolian pine were detected using culture-based isolation and high-throughput sequencing (HTS), and the potential antagonistic endophytes against D. sapinea were also screened. The results indicated that 198 and 235 strains of endophytic fungi were isolated from different tissues of symptomatic and asymptomatic Mongolian pine, respectively. D. sapinea was the most common endophyte isolated from the current-year needles and shoots of symptomatic trees, and Diplodia was also the most common in the HTS data. There were no significant differences in the endophytic fungal species richness among asymptomatic and symptomatic trees, but there were differences observed within specific sampled tissues. The ANOSIM analysis confirmed that the endophytic fungi community structure significantly differed between sampling tissues among symptomatic and asymptomatic Mongolian pine. Furthermore, the antagonism study revealed Penicillium fructuariae-cellae with the ability to inhibit the growth of D. sapinea in vitro, and the potential performance of this fungus, acting as biological control agent, was evaluated under greenhouse. Our findings can pave the way to a better understanding of the interactions between D. sapinea, other endophytic fungi and their hosts, and provide helpful information for more efficient disease management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygala crotalarioides, a perennial herbaceous plant found in southwest China, has the potential to be used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Endophytic fungi that reside within medicinal herbs play an important ecological role in their host plants and can serve as a valuable source for identifying active components. However, little is known about the diversity, and structure of endophytic fungi in P. crotalarioides. In this study, we investigated the community structure and diversity of endophytic fungi in the leaves, stems, and roots of P. crotalarioides at both 1- and 2-year-growth stages using a modern culture-independent method using both culture-independent (high-throughput sequencing, HTS) and culture-based methods. Using HTS, our results revealed that the richness and diversity of endophytic fungi in P. crotalarioides varied depending on the organs and growth stages. Specifically, stems and leaves exhibited significantly higher diversity compared to roots. Additionally, the highest diversity of endophytic fungi was observed in the stems of the 2-year-old plants. At the genus level, Fusarium, Colletotrichum, and Phoma were the most abundant endophytic fungi in 1-year-old samples, while Cercospora, Apiotrichum, and Fusarium were prevalent in 2-year-old samples. A total of 55 endophytic fungal strains belonging to two phyla and 24 genera were isolated from 150 plant tissue segments using culture-based methods. The anti-acetylcholinesterase activity of these isolates was evaluated in vitro and five of them, Phialophora mustea PCAM010, Diaporthe nobilis PCBM027, Fusarium oxysporum LP41, F. oxysporum SR60, and Phoma herbarum SM81, showed strong activity (>50% inhibition rate). These findings will serve as a theoretical basis and practical guide for comprehending the structural composition, biological diversity and bioactivity of endophytic fungi in P. crotalarioides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytes play an important role in helping plants resist heavy metal stress. However, little is known about the effects of different heavy metals on the diversity and composition of endophyte communities. In this study, we used 16S and ITS amplicon sequencing to reveal the structure and function of endophytes in Symphytum officinale under different heavy metal stressors. The results showed that the endophytic fungal diversity decreased compared with the control under the different heavy metals stressors, while the diversity of endophytic bacteria showed an increasing trend. The biomarker analysis indicated that Zn and Pb stress led to obvious branches. Specific OTUs analysis showed that there were 1224, 597, and 1004 OTUs specific under Zn, Pb, and Cd stress in the bacterial community and 135, 81, and 110 OTUs specific under Zn, Pb, and Cd stress in the fungal community. The co-occurrence network showed changes in microbial interactions under heavy metal contamination conditions, suggesting that endophytic bacteria play an important role in the resistance of host plants. The Spearman analysis showed that the correlation between endophytic bacteria and endophytic fungi in relation to heavy metal transport exhibited variations. Our results expand the knowledge of the relationships of plant–microbe interactions and offer pivotal information to reveal the role of endophytes under different heavy metal stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinity is one of the major environmental stresses that results in reduction of cultivable land and decreased productivity. In the present study, halotolerant and plant growth-promoting endophytic fungi were isolated from Catharanthus roseus, and their e ect in mitigating salt stress in Vigna radiata was evaluated. An isolate CR7, identified to be Aspergillus terreus, showing plant growth promotion activities, viz. IAA production (23.43 ± 0.79 µg/ml), phosphate solubilization (133.63 ± 6.40 µg/ml), ACC deaminase activity (86.36 ± 2.70 µmol α-ketobutyrate/h/mg protein) etc. and ability to grow at 15% NaCl was selected for further in vivo studies. Colonization of CR7 was carried out in V. radiata which was subjected to di erent concentrations of salt (150, 200, and 250 mM NaCl). Under salt stress, A. terreus CR7 inoculated plants showed substantially improved root and shoot length, biomass, chlorophyll content, relative water content, phenolics, protein content, and DPPH scavenging activity. Endogenous IAA level was enhanced by 5.28-fold in treated plants at maximum salt stress. Inoculation of A. terreus CR7 a ected oxidative stress parameters, exhibiting an increase in catalase and superoxide dismutase and reduction in proline, electrolyte leakage, and malondialdehyde content. Fluorescent microscopic analysis of roots revealed improved cell viability and decreased levels of glutathione and hydrogen peroxide under salt stress in treated plants. The isolate A. terreus CR7 also protected against DNA damage induced by salt stress which was evaluated using comet assay. A decrease in DNA tail length, tail moment, and olive tail moment to the extent of 19.87%, 19.76%, and 24.81%, respectively, was observed in A. terreus CR7-colonized plants under salt stress. It can be concluded that A. terreus CR7 can be exploited for alleviating the impact of salt stress in crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic fungi are important microbial resources for developing novel antibacterial and antifungal drugs to prevent and control crop diseases. Panax notoginseng has been used as a Chinese medicinal herb for a long time, as it has various bioactivities. However, information on endophytic fungi isolated from Panax notoginseng is rare. In this study, an endophytic fungus known as SQGX-6, which was later identified as the golden hair fungus Arcopilus aureus, was isolated from Panax notoginseng. SQGX-6 was extracted using ethyl acetate, and the active components of the fungus were identified using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS). The antifungal and antioxidant activities of the extract were determined and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. SQGX-6 and its extract inhibited the growth of Corn stalk rot (Fusarium graminearum), Corn southern leaf blight (Helminthosporium maydis), and Tomato gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) in vitro. The free radical scavenging rates for 2,2-Diphenyl-1-pyridinyl hydrazide (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, 3-Ethylbenzothiazoline-6-Sulfonic Acid Radical scavenging (ABTS) activity were also downregulated by the SQGX-6 extract. In vivo, the SQGX-6 extract inhibited the mycelial growth rates of the three aforementioned fungi and downregulated malondialdehyde (MDA) content and upregulated peroxidase (POD) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) content in fruits, leading to significant reduction in damage to cherry tomatoes caused by Botrytis cinerea. UHPLC-MS was performed to identify various active substances, including Alkaloids, Azoles, Benzofurans, Coumarins, Flavonoids, Organic acids, Phenols, and plant growth regulators contained in the extract. These results suggested that the endophytic fungus SQGX-6 of Panax notoginseng and its extract have excellent antifungal and antioxidant activities, and thus, it is an important microbial resource for the developing novel drugs against plant fungal infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dendrobine, a valuable alkaloid found in Dendrobium nobile, possesses significant pharmaceutical potential. Methods: In this study, we explored innovative approaches to enhance dendrobine production by utilizing endophytic fungi in a Temporary Immersion Bioreactor System (TIBS, Nanjing BioFunction Co. Ltd., China) and traditional test bottles. Dendrobine was unequivocally identified and characterised in D. nobile co-culture seedlings through UHPLC analysis and LC-MS qTOF analysis, supported by reference standards. Results: The CGTB (control group) and EGTB (experimental group) 12-monthold D. nobile seedlings exhibited similar peak retention times at 7.6±0.1 minutes, with dendrobine identified as C16H25NO2 (molecular weight 264.195). The EGTB, co-cultured with Trichoderma longibrachiatum (MD33), displayed a 2.6-fold dendrobine increase (1804.23 ng/ml) compared to the CGTB (685.95 ng/ml). Furthermore, a bioanalytical approach was applied to investigate the monoculture of T. longibrachiatum MD33 with or without D. nobile seedlings in test bottles. The newly developed UHPLC-MS method allowed for dendrobine identification at a retention time of 7.6±0.1 minutes for control and 7.6±0.1 minutes for co-culture. Additionally, we explored TIBS to enhance dendrobine production. Co-culturing D. nobile seedlings with Trichoderma longibrachiatum (MD33) in the TIBS system led to a substantial 9.7-fold dendrobine increase (4415.77 ng/ml) compared to the control (454.01 ng/ml) after just 7 days. The comparative analysis of dendrobine concentration between EGTB and EGTIBS highlighted the remarkable potential of TIBS for optimizing dendrobine production. Future research may focus on scaling up the TIBS approach for commercial dendrobine production and investigating the underlying mechanisms for enhanced dendrobine biosynthesis in D. nobile. The structural elucidation of dendrobine was achieved through ¹H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, revealing a complex array of proton environments and distinct carbon environments, providing essential insights for the comprehensive characterization of the compound. Discussion: These findings hold promise for pharmaceutical and industrial applications of dendrobine and underline the role of endophytic fungi in enhancing secondary metabolite production in medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Calamus castaneus is a non-climbing rattan plant widely distributed in tropical rainforests. The sharp spines of rattan palm harbour endophytic fungi, which may produce extracellular enzymes that contribute to various functions without harming the host plant. This study was aimed to evaluate the ability of fungal endophytes isolated from the C. castaneus spines to produce extracellular enzymes, including protease, pectinase, amylase, lipase and cellulase. Methodology and results: Thirty-four (34) endophytic fungal isolates were tested for their ability to produce extracellular enzymes using the agar plate method. Enzyme activity was measured using the enzyme index (EI) by measuring the halo (clear zone) on the agar medium. The EI value indicates the strength of the enzyme produced by the endophytes. Results demonstrated that all thirty-four fungal endophytes could produce at least one extracellular enzyme. Xylaria cubensis BR90 showed the highest protease activity of 5.73 EI. Muyocopron laterale (SM60) showed the highest pectinase activity of 2.74 EI. For lipase and cellulase activities, Cyphellophora guyanensis (BR71) produced 2.26 EI while Acremonium hennebertii (BR70) produced 1.97 EI, respectively. Conclusion, significance and impact of study: Endophytic fungi from spines of C. castaneus were able to produce cellulase, pectinase, lipase, protease and amylase. The extracellular enzymes degraded different substrates, suggesting different types of interaction of the fungal endophytes with the host plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic fungi colonize the inner tissues and provide direct and indirect benefits to plants. Although Mongolia is rich in medicinal plants, due to climatic and anthropogenic reasons, the resources are being depleted, and many species are under threat of gradual extinction, while the endophytic fungi of Mongolian plants are largely unknown. In this study, a total of 24 culturable endophytic fungal strains were isolated from Cynomorium songaricum (Rupr.), a medicinal and vulnerable plant species of Mongolia. Based on the morphological characteristics and the sequences of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the isolates were identified into six genera: Fusarium (8), Clonostachys (7), Penicillium (6), Alternaria (1), Aspergillus (1), and Madurella (1). The antimicrobial activity was assessed by the agar-diffusion method, revealing that 15 strains were able to inhibit the growth of at least one of the test organisms. Among them, 1 strain showed inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli, 12 against Bacillus subtilis, 13 against Staphylococcus aureus, and 8 against Aspergillus niger, respectively. The ability to solubilize complex phosphorus and zinc minerals was observed in 3 and 21 strains, respectively, and the production of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) was detected in nine strains in the presence of tryptophan. Our study provides the first insight into the cultivable endophytic fungal composition of C. songaricum, parasitizing the roots of Nitraria sibirica growing in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. The resulting fungi, which have antimicrobial and plant growth-promoting properties, were preserved in the national culture collection and can be used to further exploit their biotechnological potential, as well as for the propagation of endangered and vulnerable medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Narrow-leaved ash (Fraxinus angustifolia Vahl), a highly valued European forest tree species, has been severely affected by a large-scale decline, which is most probably driven by a complex of multiple interacting factors including fungi, which contribute to and accelerate this process. Red deer (Cervus elaphus L.) can be considered as one of the contributing factors, as they inflict damage on the stems of young trees by stripping the bark. These wounds not only represent suitable entry points for fungi which can cause tissue necroses and decomposition, they can lead to changes in the wood structure as well. The aims of this research were to analyze chosen parameters of bark stripping wounds in narrow-leaved ash stands, identify fungi present in the tissue exposed by wounding, and inspect the effect of wounding on the wood structure. Bark stripping was observed on ash trees from 2 cm up to 18 cm of DBH and between 0.1 m and 1.9 m of stem height. The most susceptible trees were those with an average DBH of 5 ± 2.5 cm. On most of the ash trees (51%), one-third to two-thirds of the circumference was damaged. In wounded tissue, 174 fungal isolates were found, most of which belonged to known endophytic fungi from the genera Trichoderma, Fusarium, and Clonostachys. It was observed that earlywood cells in the wounding zone had narrower lumens compared to ones in adjacent healthy zone with regard to different trees and stem heights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The symbiosis between endophytic fungi and plants can promote the absorption of potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other nutrients by plants. Phosphorus is one of the indispensable nutrient elements for plant growth and development. However, the content of available phosphorus in soil is very low, which limits the growth of plants. Phosphorus-soluble microorganisms can improve the utilization rate of insoluble phosphorus. In this study, Talaromyces verruculosus (T. verruculosus), a potential phosphorus-soluble fungus, was isolated from Acer truncatum, a plant with strong stress resistance, and its phosphorus-soluble ability in relation to cucumber seedlings under different treatment conditions was determined. In addition, the morphological, physiological, and biochemical indexes of the cucumber seedlings were assessed. The results show that T. verruculosus could solubilize tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and lecithin, and the solubilization effect of lecithin was higher than that of TCP. After the application of T. verruclosus, the leaf photosynthetic index increased significantly. The photosynthetic system damage caused by low phosphorus stress was alleviated, and the root morphological indexes of cucumber seedlings were increased. The plant height, stem diameter, and leaf area of cucumber seedlings treated with T. verruculosus were also significantly higher than those without treatment. Therefore, it was shown that T. verruculosus is a beneficial endophytic fungus that can promote plant growth and improve plant stress resistance. This study will provide a useful reference for further research on endophytic fungi to promote growth and improve plant stress resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chimonanthus praecox is an aromatic plant that flowers in winter. The composition of the floral volatiles of C. praecox is influenced by different blooming stages, circadian rhythms and species. However, the relationship between floral volatiles and plant endophytic fungi has not received much research attention. Here, we used high-throughput sequencing technology to compare and analyze the changes in the structure and diversity of the endophytic fungal communities in C. praecox under different circadian rhythms (7:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m.) and in different blooming stages (unopened flowers and opened flowers). The endophytic fungi of C. praecox consisted of nine phyla, 34 classes, 79 orders, 181 families, 293 genera, and 397 species, and Ascomycota was the dominant phylum. Under a diurnal rhythm, the diversity (Chao1 and Shannon indices) of endophytic fungi gradually decreased in the unopened flowers, while an increasing and then decreasing trend was found for the opened flowers. In the different blooming stages, the endophytic fungal diversity was significantly higher at 7:00 a.m. in the unopened flowers compared to the opened flowers. Humidity was the key factors that significantly affected the endophytic fungal diversity and community. Moreover, 11 endophytic fungi were significantly positively or negatively correlated with seven floral volatiles. In conclusion, the community structure and diversity of endophytic fungi in C. praecox were affected by the different blooming stages and circadian rhythms, and a correlation effect related to floral volatiles was found, but there are other possible reasons that were not tested. This study provides a theoretical basis for elucidating the interrelationships between endophytic fungi, floral volatiles, and environmental factors in C. praecox. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted nature of Beauveria bassiana and other insect-related fungi. It explores the coevolutionary history between these fungi and their hosts, as well as their roles as pathogens, saprophytes, and endophytes. The article summarizes several research articles and a review article, covering topics such as industrial applications, gene function, immune response, screening and characterization, endophytic capacity, and chemical composition. The article emphasizes the global importance of studying these fungi as eco-friendly alternatives for pest management. [Extracted from the article]

Plant diseases and pests reduce crop yields, accounting for global crop losses of 30% to 50%. In conventional agricultural production systems, these losses are typically controlled by applying chemical pesticides. However, public pressure is mounting to curtail agrochemical use. In this context, employing beneficial endophytic microorganisms is an increasingly attractive alternative to the use of conventional chemical pesticides in agriculture. A multitude of fungal endophytes are naturally present in plants, producing enzymes, small peptides, and secondary metabolites due to their bioactivity, which can protect hosts from pathogens, pests, and abiotic stresses. The use of beneficial endophytic microorganisms in agriculture is an increasingly attractive alternative to conventional pesticides. The aim of this study was to characterize fungal endophytes isolated from apparently healthy, feral wine grapes in eastern Canada that have grown without agrochemical inputs for decades. Host plants ranged from unknown seedlings to long-lost cultivars not widely propagated since the 1800s. HPLC-MS was used to identify unique endophyte-derived chemical compounds in the host plants, while dual-culture competition assays showed a range in endophytes' ability to suppress the mycelial growth of Botrytis, which is typically controlled in viticulture with pesticides. Twelve of the most promising fungal endophytes isolated were identified using multilocus sequencing and morphology, while DNA barcoding was employed to identify some of their host vines. These fungal endophyte isolates, which consisted of both known and putative novel strains, belonged to seven genera in six families and five orders of Ascomycota. Exploring the fungal endophytes in these specimens may yield clues to the vines' survival and lead to the discovery of novel biocontrol agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic fungi establish mutualistic relationships with host plants and can promote the growth and development of plants. In this study, the endophytic fungus JRF11 was isolated from Carya illinoinensis. Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and 18S rRNA gene combined with colonial and conidial morphology identified JRF11 as a Paraphaosphaeria strain. Plant–fungus interaction assays revealed that JRF11 showed significant growth-promoting effects on plants. In particular, JRF11 significantly increased the root biomass and soluble sugar content of plants. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis demonstrated that JRF11 treatment reprogrammed a variety of genes involved in plant mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and starch and sucrose metabolism pathways through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Our research indicates that beneficial endophytic fungi are able to interact with plants and exhibit outstanding plant growth-promoting activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Phyllanthus genus exhibits a broad distribution spanning across the majority of tropical and subtropical regions. Due to their ability to synthesize medicinal bioactive compounds such as lignans, they have been utilized historically in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. This review discusses the current knowledge on the potency of lignans for medicinal purposes, the benefit of lignans for plants, various lignans produced by Phyllanthus, and how lignan synthesis could be increased through biotic and abiotic elicitation. Finally, we present a set of connected hypotheses to explain how signaling crosstalk between endophytic microbes and drought stress responses regulates lignan production. Although the mechanisms of lignan synthesis in Phyllanthus are not fully explored, this review strongly supports the view that endophytic fungi and drought stress can increase lignan production in plants belonging to the genus Phyllanthus. The medicinal plant–endophyte–drought stress relationship helps to improve the lignan yield of Phyllanthus, which is crucial for human health and can be optimized under in vitro and in vivo conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) is one of the most important economic and natural resources in Northern Europe. Despite its importance, the endophytic fungal community of the fruits has rarely been investigated. Biogeographic patterns and determinants of the fungal diversity in the bilberry fruit are poorly understood, albeit fungal endophytes can have a close relationship with the host plants. Here, we investigated the effect of climatic regions, and their weather conditions within growth season and soil properties on fungal endophytic communities of bilberry fruits collected from northern and southern regions of Finland using high-throughput sequencing technology targeting the internal transcribed spacer 2 ribosomal DNA region for fungi. Results: Species richness and beta diversity (variation in community structure) were higher in the southern compared to the studied northern region. The weather condition of the growth season drove both fungal richness and community structure. Furthermore, abundance of the genera Venturia, Cladosporium, and Podosphaera was influenced by the weather, being different between the south and north regions. Conclusions: We conclude that diversity and assembly structure of the fungal endophytes in bilberry fruits follow similar patterns as for foliar fungal endophytes, being shaped by various environmental factors, such as the climate and surrounding vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytes are microorganisms that inhabit various plant parts and cause no damage to the host plants. During the last few years, a number of novel endophytic fungi have been isolated and identified from medicinal plants and were found to be utilized as bio-stimulants and bio fertilizers. In lieu of this, the present study aims to isolate and identify endophytic fungi associated with the leaves of Anisomeles indica L. an important medicinal plant of the Terai-Duars region of West Bengal. A total of ten endophytic fungi were isolated from the leaves of A. indica and five were identified using ITS1/ITS4 sequencing based on their ability for plant growth promotion, secondary metabolite production, and extracellular enzyme production. Endophytic fungal isolates were identified as Colletotrichum yulongense Ai1, Colletotrichum cobbittiense Ai2, Colletotrichum alienum Ai2.1, Colletotrichum cobbittiense Ai3, and Fusarium equiseti. Five isolates tested positive for their plant growth promotion potential, while isolates Ai4. Ai1, Ai2, and Ai2.1 showed significant production of secondary metabolites viz. alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, saponins, etc. Isolate Ai2 showed maximum total phenolic concentration (25.98 mg g−1), while isolate Ai4 showed maximum total flavonoid concentration (20.10 mg g−1). Significant results were observed for the production of extracellular enzymes such as cellulases, amylases, laccases, lipases, etc. The isolates significantly influenced the seed germination percentage of tomato seedlings and augmented their growth and development under in vitro assay. The present work comprehensively tested these isolates and ascertained their huge application for the commercial utilization of these isolates both in the agricultural and industrial sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil pollution is a growing global concern and one of the most challenging environmental issues today, involving the human sector as well. Innovative soil remediation strategies are needed to conserve the natural resources of the environment. Endophytes are present in all plants species, living symbiotically in a continuum dynamic mutualism. Among multiple changing roles, safeguarding the host in terms of increasing resistance to abiotic factors has been widely demonstrated. Following these physiological changes, host plants have beneficial potential in degrading pollutants from contaminated soils. Enzymes produced by host plants along with endophytes may also, degrade macromolecule compounds into small molecules or convert more toxic substances into less toxic substances to increase their adaptability. Phytoremediation technology with endophyte fungi is an ecological alternative strategy that has been documented as a promising technology for remedying contaminated soils. This review article aims to piece together the physiological, chemical and genetical mechanisms employed in phytoremediation techniques mediated by endophytic fungi and highlight the importance of the plant-microbiome ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rise of multidrug resistance among microorganisms, where they develop resistance against formerly efficacious drugs, has led to increased disease prevalence and mortality rates, posing a growing challenge. Globally, antibiotic resistance has made a significant impact, causing millions of fatalities each year. Endophytic fungi have gained considerable attention in research due to their potential to produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites, including natural substances with antimicrobial capabilities. The genera Aspergillus and Penicillium stand out as the most prevalent species of endophytic fungi. Filamentous fungi, such as these are responsible for the production of 45% of known microbial metabolites. This review focuses on exploring the bioactive substances produced by endophytic fungi from these two genera, particularly in conjunction with medicinal plants. Emphasis is placed on their antimicrobial activity and their ability to inhibit multidrug-resistant pathogens. As the need for alternative treatments to combat drug-resistant infections continues to grow, endophytic fungi have the potential to provide a valuable source of bioactive molecules for medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egyptian Conocarpus erectus L., or the buttonwood, was studied in different terms. This study used light and scanning electron microscopy, HPLC, and GC–MS analyses. Foliar morphology, anatomy of stems and leaves, pollen morphology, and phytochemical and endofungal attributes were investigated. It was an evergreen shrub with alternate leaves, a pair of nectary glands on the leaf base, and a few indumentums. Trichomes of both non- and glandular hairs were found. Stomata were sized, reaching 37.5 × 25.0 µm. They appeared on both abaxial and adaxial surfaces. The stem and leaf interior structure was typically like most dicots. Their internal structure revealed the mycelium of Aspergillus flavus throughout. Similarly, the accumulation of phenolic compounds as colored particles and integrated phytochemicals in crystalloid druses are observed internally. The endophytic fungus A. flavus, isolated from the leaves of C. erectus, contained the highest concentration of kojic acid. As a result, we could consider this A. flavus strain as a source of kojic acid for application in industry. Fungal and C. erectus extracts showed broad-range antifungal activity against three opportunistic human pathogenic fungi (Geotrichum candidum OL960606, Neoscytalidium dimidiatum OL960610, and Scopulariopsis coprophila OL960621). The major bioactive compounds of C. erectus leaf extracts were gallic acid, rutin, and rosmarinic acid. In conclusion, the endophytic A. flavus isolated from C. erectus has a variety of biological and medicinal uses that make it a potential commercial resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Plant-associated endophytic fungi (EFs) are emerging as a promising solution to advancing modern agriculture and fostering environmental sustainability, especially in the face of climate change scenarios. These fungi, either naturally residing in plants or introduced through artificial inoculation techniques, improve agricultural production due to their various roles in protecting and supporting host plants. The majority of EFs serve as natural biocontrol agents for a variety of agricultural pests, such as insects, phytopathogens, nematodes, and weeds. Notably, EFs produce secondary metabolites, trigger immune responses, modify plant defense gene expression, confer host plant resistance and/or tolerance, and regulate pest growth, populations, and survival to combat agricultural pests. Beyond controlling pests, EFs promote optimal plant growth, development, and resilience by aiding in the synthesis of vital compounds such as phytohormones and bioactive metabolites, nutrient acquisition, and fortifying plants against environmental stresses and climatic changes. Moreover, the mostly nonpathogenic nature of EFs, coupled with their high yield potential, environmental safety, and cost effectiveness, positions them as eco-friendly and economically viable alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals amidst rapid climate change scenarios. As a result, the promising horizon of EFs in agricultural production necessitates interdisciplinary study and microbial modulation approaches to optimize symbiotic plant-EF relationships and their potential for improved productivity. This review provides current and comprehensive insights into the practical applications and multifaceted benefits of EFs in pest management, plant growth promotion, and climate change resilience for future agricultural production improvements. The analysis reveals the potential of developing EFs into innovative bioformulations such as biofertilizers, biostimulants, and biopesticides, thereby paving the way for their integration into a sustainable and more resilient future agricultural system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locoweed is a collective name for a variety of plants, such as Oxytropis and Astragalus L. When these plants are infected by some fungi or endophytes, they will produce an alkaloid (swainsonine) that is harmful to livestock. Chronic toxicity characterized by neurological disorders occurs in livestock overfed on locoweed, and swainsonine (SW) is considered a major toxic component. The mechanism of the SW synthesis of endophytic fungi from locoweed remains unknown. In order to further discover the possible synthetic pathway of SW, in this study, a mycotoxin (SW) producer, Alternaria oxytropis isolate, UA003, isolated from Locoweed plants, and its mutant were subjected to transcriptomic analyses to ascertain the genes involved in the synthesis of this toxin. Mutant strain A. oxytropis E02 was obtained by ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenesis treatment, and the strains were sequenced with different culture times for transcriptomic analysis and screening of differentially expressed genes. The results show a highly significant (p < 0.01) increase in SW yield in the A. oxytropis E02 strain obtained by EMS mutagenesis treatment compared to A. oxytropis UA003. A total of 637 differentially expressed genes were screened by transcriptome sequencing analysis, including 11 genes potentially associated with SW biosynthesis. These genes were screened using GO and KEGG data annotation and analysis. Among the differential genes, evm.TU.Contig4.409, evm.TU.Contig19.10, and evm.TU.Contig50.48 were associated with L-lysine biosynthesis, the L-pipecolic acid pathway, and the α-aminoadipic acid synthesis pathway. This study provides new insights to elucidate the mechanism of SW synthesis of endophytic fungi in locoweed and provides data support for further exploration of A. oxytropis genomics studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of selected studies on fungal endophytes confirms the paucity of Basidiomycota and basal fungi, with almost 90% attributed to Ascomycota. Reasons for the low number of Basidiomycota and basal fungi, including the Chytridiomycota, Mucoromycota, and Mortierellomycota, are advanced, including isolation procedure and media, incubation period and the slow growth of basidiomycetes, the identification of non-sporulating isolates, endophyte competition, and fungus–host interactions. We compare the detection of endophytes through culture-dependent methods and culture-independent methods, the role of fungi on senescence of the host plant, and next-generation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal endophytes are well-known for their ability to promote plant growth and hinder fungal diseases, including Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum. This study aimed to characterize the biocontrol efficacy of strain J4-3 isolated from the stem of symptomless wheat collected from Heilongjiang Province, China. It was identified as Epicoccum layuense using morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and beta-tubulin (TUB). In a dual culture assay, strain J4-3 significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of F. graminearum strain PH-1 and other fungal pathogens. In addition, wheat coleoptile tests showed that lesion symptoms caused by F. graminearum were significantly reduced in wheat seedlings treated with hyphal fragment suspensions of strain J4-3 compared to the controls. Under field conditions, applying spore suspensions and culture filtrates of strain J4-3 with conidial suspensions of F. graminearum on wheat spikes resulted in the significant biocontrol efficacy of FHB. In addition, wheat seedlings previously treated with spore suspensions of strain J4-3 before sowing successfully resulted in FHB reduction after the application of conidial suspensions of F. graminearum at anthesis. More importantly, wheat seedlings treated with hyphal fragments and spore suspensions of strain J4-3 showed significant increases in wheat growth compared to the controls under greenhouse and field conditions. Overall, these findings suggest that E. layuense J4-3 could be a promising biocontrol agent (BCA) against F. graminearum, causing FHB and a growth-promoting fungus in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Equisetin was isolated from endophytic fungus Fusarium sp. JDJR1 via bioassay-guided isolation, and it was evaluated as an anti-microbial and herbicidal agent. Bioactivity assessments revealed that equisetin exhibited a broad spectrum of fungicidal and anti-bacterial activity against various plant pathogens. The EC50 values against Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium graminearum, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and Rhizoctonia solani ranged from 10.7 to 21.0 μg/mL. Notably, equisetin demonstrated activity against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and Pseudomonas solanacearum with an MIC range of 4–16 μg/mL, surpassing the efficacy of the positive control: streptomycin sulfate. Equisetin, at a concentration of 100 μg/mL, could completely inhibit the spore germination of F. graminearum. In in vivo protection experiments, the protective efficacy of equisetin against B. cinerea on tomato fruits at 200 μg/mL reached 72.9%. Furthermore, in herbicidal activity tests that use the Petri dish bioassay method, equisetin had a good inhibitory effect on the root growth of weeds. At a concentration of 100 μg/mL, the inhibition rates for Echinochloa crusgalli and Eclipta prostrata root were 98.8 and 94.4%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Iraqi Journal of Agricultural Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)