Search Results (15,380)

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, is a major agricultural pest whose control is increasingly constrained by resistance to synthetic acaricides. This study evaluated the long-term field efficacy of three commercial entomopathogenic fungal (EPF) biopesticides—Velifer^® (Beauveria bassiana), Metab^® (B. bassiana + Metarhizium anisopliae), and Botanigard^® (B. bassiana)—against larval and protonymph stages of T. urticae on two host plants, Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) and sweet orange (Citrus sinensis). Two foliar applications were conducted during the 2023 growing season (25 May and 25 July), and mite populations were monitored for 140 days after the final application. A randomized complete block design was used, and efficacy was calculated using the Henderson–Tilton formula. All EPF treatments significantly reduced mite populations compared with the untreated control throughout the monitoring period. Velifer consistently achieved the highest suppression of larval populations, particularly on C. sinensis, with efficacy comparable to the chemical standard. Botanigard showed more gradual but sustained population reduction over time, whereas Metab exhibited lower but stable efficacy in all cases. Treatment performance was strongly influenced by host plant species and mite developmental stage, with larvae consistently more susceptible than protonymphs. On C. sinensis, Velifer achieved the highest larval suppression (84.6%), comparable to the chemical standard abamectin, while Botanigard and Velifer were most effective on C. sempervirens. Survival analysis confirmed isolate- and host-dependent differences in hazard effects over time. These results demonstrate that EPF-based products can provide sustained, long-term suppression of T. urticae under field conditions, supporting their integration into integrated pest management programs. Full article

C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA) are classical acute-phase proteins that exemplify humoral innate immunity, the soluble arm of the host’s first-line defense. Beyond their traditional use as biomarkers of inflammation, both proteins function as active effectors against pathogens by binding microbial components, activating complements, and modulating inflammation. However, bacteria, viruses, and fungi have co-evolved diverse mechanisms to cope with or evade these host defenses. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of CRP and SAA as soluble innate immune effectors and to highlight pathogen strategies to counteract their antimicrobial pressure. We systematically surveyed and summarized evidence from experimental and clinical studies describing “function of CRP and SAA during infection”, “CRP and SAA in innate immune defense”, and “evasion mechanisms across bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens”. CRP and SAA are rapidly upregulated in response to infection and contribute to pathogen recognition, opsonization, and inflammation. Pathogens, however, employ multiple coping strategies, including surface modification to block CRP binding, proteolytic degradation of acute-phase proteins, shielding within biofilms, and subversion of host signaling. These countermeasures enable microbes to reduce immune clearance and promote persistence. CRP and SAA represent central elements of humoral innate immunity, shaping the outcome of host–pathogen interactions. Pathogen adaptations to these proteins illustrate an ongoing evolutionary arms race between host defense and microbial survival. A deeper understanding of these processes may open avenues for novel therapeutic approaches, such as targeting microbial evasion factors or enhancing host acute-phase responses. Full article

Biochar, a highly effective amendment, is widely used for soil improvement and environmental remediation. However, research on its application in litchi (Litchi chinensis) cultivation is relatively scarce, particularly regarding its potential to enhance the rhizospheric soil ecological environment. In this study, a pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of biochar derived from maize (Zea mays) and rice (Oryza sativa), applied at different rates (3%, 6%, 10%), on the physical and chemical properties, enzyme activities, and microbial community structure and diversity in the rhizospheric soil of litchi seedlings. The results showed that biochar application significantly (p < 0.05) improved soil nutrient conditions, including total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), pH, and soil sucrase (SC) enzyme activity. Notably, treatment with 10% maize biochar exhibited the most pronounced improvement across all parameters, barring AP. Furthermore, biochar application stimulated the proliferation of specific bacterial taxa (Acidobacteriota, Bacteroidota, and Chloroflexota) and fungal phyla (Ascomycota and Mortierellomycota), increasing bacterial diversity while decreasing fungal diversity and richness. Correlation analysis further revealed the close relationships between soil microbial communities and fertility factors. This study provides substantial evidence regarding the efficacy and feasibility of biochar in improving the rhizospheric soil ecological environment of litchi. It offers a theoretical foundation for the scientific application of biochar in orchard soil management. Full article

Knowledge related to the use of plants and mushrooms in the Baranja region of Croatia was documented through semi-structured interviews of 105 informants in 12 villages. We found 117 plant species and 7 mushrooms with medicinal uses. Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, and Asteraceae were the families with the most species, while Sambucus nigra, Chamomilla recutita, and Taraxacum officinale were the most frequently mentioned species. Leaves, fruits, and flowers were the most commonly used plant parts, predominantly prepared as infusions, syrups, and tinctures. Plants were mainly used to treat digestive and respiratory ailments, with the highest informant consensus recorded for ear, eye, and respiratory disorders. The results emphasize the persistence of rich ethnobotanical knowledge in the study area and highlight the importance of preserving this cultural and biological heritage for future generations. Full article

Ancient books and documents constitute an important cultural heritage, which are composed by different supports, such as cardboard, parchment and paper. Due to their composition (animal- and plant-based matrices), they allow bacteria and fungi to thrive, causing the phenomenon of biodeterioration, an ecological succession in parchment. Four ancient books called “Compositionum” from the Apostolic Vatican Archive, made of the same materials, exposed to weather-beating conditions and showing different degrees of deterioration, were analysed by a multidisciplinary approach: DNA metabarcoding using NGS, Light Transmission Analysis and Raman and FTIR spectroscopy. The results highlighted how the biodeteriogen community composition changed from the least to the most damaged, without evidence of significant microbial transfer across the three matrices. The results allow confirmation of the ecological succession as biodeterioration process, including cardboard and paper, in addition to in parchment. These results give important insight for the conservation and restoration practices of all matrices. Full article

Endophyte fungi (EF) are considered a new and valuable reservoir of bioactive molecules of biotechnological interest for pharmacy, agricultural and forestry industries. In this study, thirty EFs, isolated from three Chilean Nothofagus species (N. alpina, N. dombeyi, N. oblicua) were identified and cultured in submerged liquid fermentations aimed at searching for natural active substances. The extracts obtained were evaluated against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Sixteen extracts (53.3%) presented antibacterial and fourteen (46.6%) presented antifungal activities in different intensities. Extracts from isolates Coryneum sp.-72 and P. cinnamomea-78 exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity. Using bioautography, the compounds responsible for the antimicrobial activity exhibited by Coryneum sp.-72 and P. cinnamomea-78 were detected and characterized. Coryneum sp.-72 showed bactericidal properties at 200 μg/mL and bacteriostatic effects at 50 μg/mL against B. cereus, B. subtilis, L. monocytogenes and S. aureus. MIC values indicated that P. cinnamomea-78 exhibited a strong fungistatic and fungicidal effect against B. cinerea and C. gloesporioides at 10–50 μg/mL. Isolates were grouped in the following order: Botryosphaeriales, Diaporthales, Eurotiales, Helotiales, Hypocreales, Pleosporales, Magnaporthales, Sordariales and Polyporales. EF isolated, identified and evaluated constitute the first report for Chilean Nothofagus genus. Full article

Previous studies have demonstrated that Bacillus velezensis HN-Q-8 shows significant inhibitory effects against various plant pathogenic fungi causing potato diseases, primarily attributed to the production of fengycin. However, the low yield of fengycin in wild-type strains limits its practical application, and the influence of its biosynthesis pathway on volatile organic compound production remains unclear. In this study, to enhance fengycin production in Bacillus velezensis HN-Q-8, we applied metabolic engineering by targeting competitive pathways. Specifically, a double mutant (ΔsrfAAΔbaeBE) was constructed by knocking out the surfactin synthase gene srfAA and the bacillaene synthesis gene baeBE. The fengycin yield of the ΔsrfAAΔbaeBE mutant in the basal (sodium glutamate) fermentation medium reached 98.83 mg/L, representing a 2.39-fold increase over the wild-type strain. Subsequent medium optimization by supplementing peptone further boosted production to 155.61 mg/L, which was 3.77-fold higher than the wild-type level. The lipopeptide extract from the double mutant strain ΔsrfAAΔbaeBE demonstrated potentiated antifungal activity against four major potato fungal pathogens: Alternaria solani (early blight), Rhizoctonia solani (black scurf), Fusarium oxysporum (wilt), and Botrytis cinerea (gray mold). The active volatile compounds released by ΔsrfAAΔbaeBE, such as benzaldehyde and 2,5-dimethylpyrazine were significantly increased. The knockout of srfAA and baeBE also distinctly altered the physiology of the strain: the double mutant exhibited enhanced biofilm formation, an accelerated early growth rate followed by early decline, and a severely reduced sporulation capacity. These results confirmed the feasibility of molecularly modifying Bacillus velezensis HN-Q-8 to improve fengycin production and antifungal activity for further agricultural application. Full article

This review explores the innovative approaches in the development of next-generation biopesticides, focusing on molecular and microbial strategies for effective control of fungal plant pathogens. As agricultural practices increasingly seek sustainable solutions to combat plant diseases, biopesticides have emerged as a promising alternative to chemical pesticides, offering reduced environmental impact and enhanced safety for non-target organisms. The review begins by outlining the critical role of fungal pathogens in global agriculture, emphasizing the need for novel control methods that can mitigate their detrimental effects on crop yields. Key molecular strategies discussed include the use of genetic engineering to enhance the efficacy of biopesticides, the application of RNA interference (RNAi) techniques to target specific fungal genes, and the development of bioactive compounds derived from natural sources. Additionally, this review highlights the potential of microbial agents, such as beneficial bacteria and fungi, in establishing biocontrol mechanisms that promote plant health and resilience. Through a comprehensive review of recent studies and advancements in the field, this manuscript illustrates how integrating molecular and microbial strategies can lead to the development of effective biopesticides tailored to combat specific fungal threats. The implications of these strategies for sustainable agriculture are discussed, alongside the challenges and future directions for research and implementation. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the transformative potential of next-generation biopesticides in the fight against fungal plant pathogens, contributing to the broader goal of sustainable food production. Full article

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is one of the most destructive pests of tomato crops worldwide. Its high reproductive potential and increasing resistance to conventional insecticides have made the development of sustainable management strategies essential. Biological control using entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), particularly when established as endophytes, has emerged as a promising approach. This study investigated the endophytic colonization capacity and greenhouse performance of three commercially available EPF formulations: Beauveria bassiana (Velifer^®), Lecanicillium lecanii (Lecan^®), and a Beauveria bassiana–Metarhizium anisopliae mixture (Metab^®), for the suppression of T. absoluta in tomato. Our experiment was conducted under commercial greenhouse conditions using soil drench applications at manufacturer-recommended doses. Endophytic colonization was assessed through surface-sterilized leaf assays, while pest suppression was evaluated via weekly measurements of larval mine length, infestation incidence, and survival dynamics. B. bassiana (Velifer^®) exhibited the highest endophytic colonization frequency and consistently reduced mine length and infestation levels compared with untreated plants. Survival analysis using Cox proportional hazards revealed significant reductions in infestation risk for Velifer^® (hazard ratio, HR = 0.420), Metab^® (HR = 0.480), and Lecan^® (HR = 0.599), relative to the negative control, whereas the chemical positive control provided the strongest overall suppression (HR = 0.287). Our findings demonstrate that commercial EPF formulations can significantly reduce T. absoluta infestation under greenhouse conditions and represent a valuable component of integrated pest management programs. Full article

Tyrosinase (EC 1.14.18.1) is a binuclear copper enzyme responsible for the rate-limiting steps of melanogenesis, catalyzing the hydroxylation of L-tyrosine and oxidation of L-DOPA into o-quinones that polymerize melanin. Beyond its physiological role in pigmentation, tyrosinase is also implicated in food browning and oxidative stress–related disorders, making it a key target in cosmetic, food, and biomedical industries. This systematic review, conducted following PRISMA guidelines, aimed to identify and analyze microbial metabolites with tyrosinase inhibitory potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional inhibitors such as hydroquinone and kojic acid. Literature searches in Scopus and Web of Science (March 2025) yielded 156 records; after screening and applying inclusion criteria, 11 studies were retained for analysis. The inhibitors identified include indole derivatives, phenolic acids, peptides, and triterpenoids, mainly produced by fungi (e.g., Ganoderma lucidum, Trichoderma sp.), actinobacteria (Streptomyces, Massilia), and microalgae (Spirulina, Synechococcus). Reported IC₅₀ values ranged from micromolar to milli-molar levels, with methyl lucidenate F (32.23 µM) and p-coumaric acid (52.71 mM). Mechanisms involved competitive and non-competitive inhibition, as well as gene-level regulation. However, methodological heterogeneity, the predominance of mushroom tyrosinase assays, and limited human enzyme validation constrain translational relevance. Computational modeling, site-directed mutagenesis, and molecular dynamics are proposed to overcome these limitations. Overall, microbial metabolites exhibit promising efficacy, stability, and biocompatibility, positioning them as emerging preclinical candidates for the development of safer and more sustainable tyrosinase inhibitors. Full article

Background: Arthrographis spp. are environmental fungi commonly found in soil and compost. Infections caused by Arthrographis species remain an uncommon clinical occurrence. Although these infections are infrequent in the general population, their incidence appears to be elevated among immunocompromised patients or those with significant comorbidities. Objectives: This review seeks to examine all documented human cases of Arthrographis spp. infections, with particular focus on aspects such as epidemiology, microbiological features, resistance patterns, therapeutic approaches and associated mortality rates. Methods: A narrative review was performed based on data obtained from the PubMed/MedLine and Scopus databases. Results: A total of 21 articles reported Arthrographis spp. infections in 21 patients. The mean age of affected individuals was 43.62 years, with 66.6% being male. A history of trauma was the most common predisposing factor, present in 33.33% of cases. Fever and abscess formation were the predominant clinical manifestations (28.6%), followed by organ dysfunction in 19% of patients. In vitro, the yeast generally showed susceptibility to voriconazole and itraconazole, with a low rate of resistance to amphotericin B. Clinically, amphotericin B was the most frequently administered antifungal (55%), followed by voriconazole (40%) and itraconazole (30%). The overall mortality rate was 19%, while deaths directly attributable to the infection accounted for 14.3%. Conclusions: Due to the capacity of Arthrographis spp. to cause serious infections, it is important for healthcare providers to consider this organism when dimorphic yeast appears in biological specimens’ cultures, especially in patients with immunosuppression or significant underlying conditions, to facilitate timely and accurate diagnosis. Full article

Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) symbiosis is a fundamental mutualism crucial for forest eco-system health. Its establishment is governed by sophisticated molecular dialogue preceding physical colonization. This review synthesizes this pre-colonization crosstalk, beginning with reciprocal signal exchange where root exudates trigger fungal growth, and fungal lipochitooligosaccharides activate host symbiotic programming, often via the common symbiosis pathway. Successful colonization requires fungi to navigate plant immunity. They employ effectors, notably mycorrhiza-induced small secreted proteins (MiSSPs), to suppress defenses, e.g., by stabilizing jasmonate signaling repressors or inhibiting apoplastic proteases, establishing a localized “mycorrhiza-induced resistance.” Concurrent structural adaptations, including fungal hydrophobins, expansins, and cell wall-modifying enzymes like chitin deacetylase, facilitate adhesion and apoplastic penetration. While this sequential model integrates immune suppression with structural remodeling, current understanding is predominantly derived from a limited set of model systems. Significant knowledge gaps persist regarding species-specific determinants in non-model fungi and hosts, the influence of environmental variability and microbiome interactions, and methodological challenges in capturing early signaling in situ. This review’s main contributions are: providing a synthesized sequential model of molecular crosstalk; elucidating the dual fungal strategy of simultaneous immune suppression and structural remodeling; and identifying crucial knowledge gaps regarding non-model systems and species-specific determinants, establishing a research roadmap with implications for forest management and ecosystem sustainability. Full article

In the last decade, avocado production has increased in Italy due to the fruit’s high nutritional quality and economic value. During 2024, stem lesions, wood discoloration and dieback, often starting at the grafting point, were observed in young plants in a nursery in Sicily (Italy). Colletotrichum-like colonies were frequently isolated from symptomatic tissues. Multi-locus phylogenetic analysis (gapdh, chs-1, act, tub2, cal, gs and ApMat) was conducted on 11 representative isolates, identifying 6 as C. perseae and 5 as C. gloeosporioides sensu stricto (s.s.). Two representative isolates were selected for pathogenicity tests performed on 2-year-old avocado plants cultivated in a greenhouse. After two months, necrotic lesions, wood discoloration and reddish-brown streaking at the inoculation point were induced in both species. Additional inoculations of avocado fruit confirmed the ability of both species to cause fruit rot. All inoculated fungi were successfully re-isolated and identified, fulfilling Koch’s postulates. This is the first report of stem lesions and dieback caused by Colletotrichum species and the first occurrence of C. perseae in avocado plants in Europe. The results highlight the importance of early monitoring in nurseries during the propagation process and contribute to a better understanding of fungal diseases in avocado crops in Italy. Full article

Steroidal compounds lie at the crossroads of inflammation and cancer, where modulation of common signaling pathways creates opportunities for dual-action therapeutic intervention. Accumulating evidence indicates that their anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities are frequently interconnected, reflecting shared molecular mechanisms that regulate immune signaling, oxidative stress, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. This review provides a critical and comparative analysis of major classes of bioactive steroids—including furanosteroids, neo-steroids, aromatic steroids, α,β-epoxy steroids, peroxy steroids, cyanosteroids, nitro- and epithio steroids, halogenated steroids (fluorinated, chlorinated, brominated, iodinated), and steroid phosphate esters—with emphasis on their dual anti-inflammatory and anticancer potential. More than one thousand steroidal metabolites derived from plants, fungi, marine organisms, bacteria, and synthetic sources are surveyed. While the majority exhibit either anti-inflammatory or antineoplastic activity alone, only a limited subset displays potent activity in both domains. Comparative evaluation highlights the structural features that favor dual functionality, including epoxide, peroxide, nitrile, nitro, halogen, and phosphate ester moieties, as well as rearranged or heteroatom-enriched steroidal frameworks. Where available, biological data from in vitro and in vivo assays (IC₅₀ values, enzyme inhibition, cytokine modulation, and antiproliferative effects) are summarized and critically compared. Special attention is given to rare natural metabolites—such as polyhalogenated marine steroids, phosphorylated sterols, and heteroatom-containing derivatives—as well as synthetic analogues designed to enhance cytotoxic or immunomodulatory efficacy. Mechanistically, steroids exhibiting dual activity commonly modulate convergent signaling pathways, including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, redox homeostasis, and apoptosis regulation. Collectively, these findings underscore the potential of structurally optimized steroids as multifunctional therapeutic agents and provide a framework for the rational design of next-generation anti-inflammatory and anticancer drugs. Full article