Search Results (4,485)

Leveraging fungal consortia to degrade heavy oil is an emerging strategy for mitigating/cleaning up environmental pollution. However, many consortia are predominantly evaluated by measuring the biodegradation efficiency of heavy oil, with insufficient attention paid to the mechanistic underpinnings and metabolic pathways. In this study, heavy oil-degrading fungal consortia were developed for potential application in soil bioremediation. Whole-genome sequencing was used to predict the metabolic pathways and interspecific interactions driving heavy oil biodegradation. Three heavy oil-degrading fungal strains, designated Aspergillus corrugatus FH2, Aspergillus terreus FL4, and Alternaria alstroemeriae FW1, were isolated from oil sludge in the Karamay Oilfield in Xinjiang, China. Four consortia were constructed through the combination of two or three strains. The consortium F13 (FH2 + FW1) achieved 72.0% removal of heavy oil in a simulated bioremediation test over 30 days, which was more efficient than other consortia and single strains (59.5–68.5%). Notably, the mean degradation rate of long-chain alkanes (C₂₄–C₂₈) by F13 reached 95.9%. After F13 treatment, the major fractions of heavy oil showed considerable degradation, 87.4% for saturates, 92.0% for aromatics, 69.5% for resins, and 27.3% for asphaltenes. Genome annotation of FH2, FL4, and FW1 revealed the presence of core genes for degradation of n-alkanes and aromatics, e.g., CYP505, frmA, fadB, hmgA, ALDH, and ACSL. These functional genes encoded cross-lineage enzymes, enabling synergistic catabolism of C₁₃–C₂₈ alkanes and aromatics. Our findings indicated that the fungal consortium of A. corrugatus FH2 and Al. alstroemeriae FW1 has remarkable bioremediation potential for heavy oil-contaminated sites. This study provides molecular evidence for the design of targeted interventions to improve soil remediation efficiency with fungal consortia. Full article

Bacterial and fungal infections, together with oxidative stress-mediated damage, remain major challenges in human health and in the protection of materials, highlighting the need for new multifunctional molecules that combine antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In this context, a new chloropyridine-based derivative, N4,N4-bis((6-chloropyridin-3-yl)methyl)-N1,N1-diethylpentane-1,4-diamine (AMZ), was synthesized via a simple, catalyst-free N-alkylation of N1,N1-diethylpentane-1,4-diamine with 2-chloro-4-(chloromethyl)pyridine in acetonitrile at 55 °C, affording a 62% yield. The structure of AMZ was confirmed by melting point determination, ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy, and EI–MS analysis. Its antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH and FRAP assays with BHT as a reference standard, while antibacterial and antifungal activities were assessed via disk diffusion and microdilution methods to determine inhibition zones and MIC/MBC values. In silico investigations included drug-likeness and ADMET predictions, as well as molecular docking on catalase (PDB: 2CAG) and fungal CYP51 (PDB: 1EA1). AMZ exhibited dose-dependent radical scavenging in the DPPH assay, reaching 76.88 ± 3.20% inhibition at 1000 µg/mL, with an EC₅₀ of 26.03 ± 0.21 µg/mL, close to that of BHT (23.65 ± 0.22 µg/mL). In the FRAP assay, AMZ showed a higher reducing power than BHT at a low concentration (OD₅₀ µg/mL 0.177 ± 0.023 vs. 0.134 ± 0.017), although its FRAP EC₅₀ was higher (700.48 ± 22.54 vs. 400.16 ± 8.67 µg/mL). AMZ displayed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi, with particularly strong effects on Bacillus subtilis (44.5 ± 0.5 mm; MIC/MBC 0.008 mg/mL) and Aspergillus niger (30 mm; MIC/MBC 0.030 mg/mL), in some cases comparable or superior to streptomycin and fluconazole. In silico analysis indicated that AMZ fulfilled major drug-likeness rules, showed high predicted intestinal absorption (91.14%), and was classified as non-AMES toxic, while docking predicted favorable binding to catalase and CYP51, in agreement with the experimental antioxidant and antifungal activities. These findings highlight the potential of AMZ as a multi-target pyridine-based lead compound that warrants further structural optimization and in vivo evaluation for applications in oxidative-stress-related and infectious conditions. Full article

Soybean meal (SBM) is a foundational protein source, but its industrial application is constrained by a complex matrix of anti-nutritional factors (ANFs). This review provides a critical synthesis of the biochemical transition from raw SBM to fermented SBM (FSBM), focusing on the synergistic mechanisms of fungal and bacterial co-fermentation. We identify that the efficacy of FSBM is primarily driven by the microbial proteolysis of glycinin into low-molecular-weight bioactive peptides (<1000 Da). These peptides serve as the primary drivers for improved intestinal morphology (increased villus height) and the modulation of the gut microbiota, providing a mechanistic basis for reported probiotic effects. Furthermore, we establish that the 5–10% improvement in the feed conversion ratio (FCR) documented for swines mathematically offsets the processing premium of fermentation. However, critical gaps remain in the standardization of solid-state fermentation (SSF) protocols, specifically regarding the selection of fungal (Aspergillus) and bacterial (Bacillus or Lactobacillus) strains, whose distinct metabolic pathways significantly diversify the functional profile of the resulting FSBM. Full article

The rapid expansion of the poultry industry has led to the large-scale generation of feather waste, creating serious environmental and public health concerns due to the recalcitrant nature of keratin. Poultry feathers are composed mainly of highly cross-linked keratin proteins stabilized by numerous disulfide bonds, which confer resistance to conventional proteolytic enzymes and natural degradation processes. This review examines the potential of keratinolytic fungi and their enzymes as sustainable, eco-friendly, and value-added strategies for poultry feather waste management and resource recovery. It discusses the environmental and health risks associated with improper feather disposal, such as pathogen proliferation, odor generation, and ecosystem contamination. Conventional management approaches, steam pressure hydrolysis, mechanical grinding, thermal treatment, acid–alkali hydrolysis, and oxidation, are critically evaluated in terms of efficiency and environmental impact. The review further highlights biological degradation pathways mediated by keratinolytic fungi and enzymes, with emphasis on fungal genera such as Aspergillus and Chrysosporium. Key mechanisms of fungal keratin degradation, including sulfitolysis, proteolysis, deamination, hyphal penetration, enzyme secretion, and biofilm formation, are discussed. Finally, industrial, agricultural, and feed applications of keratinases, along with advances in strain improvement, omics technologies, synthetic biology, and associated biosafety and regulatory considerations, are addressed. Full article

Background: Invasive Aspergillosis (IA) is a rare but life-threatening fungal infection in immunocompromised hosts, including solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. While extensively studied in other SOT populations, data on IA in pancreas transplant (PT) recipients are limited. Earlier studies reported mortality rates nearing 100%, whereas more recent data show that 12-week mortality still exceeds 20% despite improvements in antifungal therapy. Current prophylaxis strategies for PT recipients mainly focus on Candida species, and there are no clear, standardized recommendations for Aspergillus prevention. Given the paucity of focused data, the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of IA in PT recipients are not well defined. This study aimed to assess the incidence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of IA among hospitalized PT patients using a nationally representative dataset. Methods: We conducted a descriptive analysis using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2016 to 2020. PT admissions were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD 10) codes for transplant status and procedures. IA was defined using validated ICD 10 codes. Baseline demographics, hospital characteristics, comorbidities, and outcomes, including sepsis, acute kidney injury (AKI), acute respiratory failure (ARF), invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), all-cause in-hospital mortality, length of stay, and total hospitalization costs and charges were compared between PT admissions with and without IA. National estimates were calculated using discharge weights, and comparisons were performed using the chi-square test and adjusted Wald test. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of all-cause in-hospital mortality among PT admissions complicated by IA. Two-sided p values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Between 2016 and 2020, 65,980 PT-related hospitalizations were identified, of which 250 (0.4%) had IA. PT admissions complicated by IA were more commonly aged 41 to 60 years (59% vs. 46%, p = 0.012) and were less likely to have a Charlson Comorbidity Index greater than 3 (54% vs. 68.6%, p < 0.001) compared with PT hospitalizations without IA. The PT with the IA cohort had higher rates of sepsis (100% vs. 46.1%, p < 0.001), AKI (60% vs. 36.7%, p < 0.001), ARF (28% vs. 9.4%, p < 0.001), and IMV use (18% vs. 4%, p < 0.001) compared with the PT without the IA cohort. Among PT hospitalizations with IA, IMV use was independently associated with higher all-cause in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio 48.777, p = 0.009). Overall, in-hospital mortality was significantly higher in PT hospitalizations with IA compared with those without IA (12% vs. 2%, p < 0.001). Mean length of stay was longer (24.86 vs. 6.13 days, p < 0.001), and total charges ($378,494 vs. $94,938, p < 0.001), and total costs ($93,019 vs. $24,463, p = 0.023) were significantly higher compared with PT hospitalizations without IA. Conclusion: Although rare, IA in PT recipients is associated with higher rates of sepsis, AKI, ARF, venous thromboembolism, prolonged hospitalization, increased mortality, and greater healthcare utilization. Despite the inherent limitations of administrative datasets, this nationally representative analysis highlights the substantial clinical and economic burden of IA in this high-risk population. These findings emphasize the need for targeted surveillance, early diagnosis, and evidence-based antifungal strategies in this vulnerable population. Full article

Three new cyclic tetrapeptides (nectriatidels A-C, 1–3), two new curvularin analogs (6 and 7), and four known compounds (4 and 5, 8 and 9) were isolated from the marine-derived fungal-bacterial symbiont Aspergillus spelaeus GXIMD 04541/Sphingomonas echinoides GXIMD 04532, which was obtained from Mauritia arabica in shallow coastal waters. Their structures were elucidated through NMR spectroscopy and HRESIMS, and their absolute configurations were determined by Marfey’s method and quantum chemical calculations. Compounds 1–5 showed moderate amphotericin B (AmB)-potentiating activity against Candida albicans. Compounds 7 and 8 exhibited significant activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, with MIC values of 32 and 16 μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, compounds 7 and 8 exhibited moderate cytotoxicity against human colorectal cancer cell lines DLD-1 and SW480, with IC₅₀ values of 25~36 μM. Whole-genome sequencing of A. spelaeus revealed a 35.91 Mb assembly encoding 106 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). antiSMASH analysis revealed that 79 of these BGCs (74.5%) displayed no significant similarity to known pathways in the MIBiG database, which is dominated by hybrid clusters, terpene, T1PKS, NRPS, and NRPS-like types. Genomic analysis identified the putative biosynthetic gene clusters for these metabolites and confirmed the fungal host as the predominant producer. Full article

The objective of this study was to evaluate the preharvest application of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), melatonin (MT), and oxalic acid (OA), at different concentrations and application frequencies, on the physicochemical and microbiological quality of dried figs (cv. Calabacita) at commercial harvest and after 3 and 6 months of refrigerated storage. A further aim was to determine their impact on fungal populations and mycotoxin production. The results showed that untreated dried figs had a higher frequency of Aspergillus welwitschiae, A. tubingensis, and Aspergillus section Flavi, whereas elicitor-treated figs exhibited a lower incidence of toxigenic fungi. A. welwitschiae was the main ochratoxin A (OTA)-associated species detected, although the proportion of OTA-positive figs was lower in elicitor-treated samples than in the control. Aflatoxins (AFs) were detected only sporadically in 2 mM OA treatments, consistent with the limited activity of A. flavus at low storage temperatures. Conversely, Penicillium spp. were widespread but were associated with citrinin (CIT) production only under 2 mM OA treatments. Among the Alternaria toxins, alternariol (AOH) was detected solely in dried figs treated with 1 mM OA. Notably, all investigated mycotoxins were below the limit of detection (<LOD) in dried figs treated with 0.5 mM MT. Moderate elicitor concentrations (e.g., 0.5 mM MT and 50 mM GABA) and multiple preharvest applications generally provided the best balance between fungal suppression and fruit quality, significantly reducing Aspergillus spp. occurrence without promoting the growth of undesirable species. Overall, elicitor treatments decreased the incidence of toxigenic fungi, most likely through direct antifungal effects in senescent dried fruit rather than by inducing host defences. The combined use of preharvest elicitors with appropriate drying and storage conditions is a promising strategy to control fungal contamination and mycotoxin accumulation in dried figs while maintaining quality from preharvest storage. Further research is needed to optimise elicitor concentrations and application timing. Full article

Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) regulate lipid homeostasis and coordinate sterol metabolism and carotenogenesis in the astaxanthin-producing yeast Phaffia rhodozyma. While Sre1, the SREBP ortholog, and the site-2 protease Stp1 have been identified as essential components of this pathway in P. rhodozyma, additional factors involved in Sre1 processing or regulation remain unknown. In Aspergillus species, a signal peptide peptidase contributes to the activation of the SREBP ortholog, raising the possibility of a similar role in this yeast. In this work, we identified and characterized the P. rhodozyma signal peptide peptidase (SppA) homolog. Sequence analysis, domain prediction, and phylogenetic analyses supported its classification within the SPP family of intramembrane aspartyl proteases. To evaluate its functional role, ΔsppA mutants were constructed in genetic backgrounds with constitutive Sre1 activity, including the cyp61⁻ mutant and a strain expressing the active form of Sre1 (Sre1N). Deletion of SPPA did not alter sensitivity to clotrimazole or cobalt chloride, nor affect pigmentation, indicating that SppA is not required for Sre1 activation in P. rhodozyma. Transcriptomic analyses further showed that expression of SRE1 and of its known target genes remained unchanged upon SPPA deletion. Interestingly, the loss of SppA in the Sre1N background caused marked downregulation of genes associated with protein refolding and unfolded protein binding. In agreement with these transcriptional changes, the Sre1NΔsppA strain displayed increased sensitivity to dithiothreitol. These findings suggest that, although SppA is not involved in Sre1 activation in P. rhodozyma, it may play a role in protein stress-related processes. Future studies will be required to define the molecular mechanisms underlying this role and its integration with protein homeostasis networks. Full article

Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) is a common contaminant of food and feed due to the production of aflatoxin B₁, which is susceptible to environmental signals. Nevertheless, how red light plays a role in A. flavus remains unclear. Here, we identified the uncharacterized hypothetical protein G4B84_010091 as a red-light sensor, defined as fungal phytochrome A (FphA), in A. flavus. The fphA knockout strain (ΔfphA) and complementary strain (fphA-com) were successfully constructed to characterize the function of FphA. Our results indicated that aflatoxin B₁ biosynthesis was promoted, while the development of conidia and sclerotia as well as the infection of peanuts were impaired in ΔfphA when compared with WT or fphA-com. The FphA^ΔRR domain deletion mutant exhibited all the phenotypes observed in the ΔfphA strain, indicating that the RR domain is indispensable for the function of FphA. In summary, FphA is involved not only in the formation of spores and sclerotia, but also in aflatoxin B₁ biosynthesis and the pathogenicity of A. flavus, which offers a potential target for novel approaches to controlling the dispersal and toxin production of this fungus. Full article

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related infections caused by rare pathogens are heterogeneous and clinically challenging, and available evidence is largely limited to isolated reports that hinder comparative interpretation. We conducted a controlled pooled narrative synthesis with exploratory comparative analyses of previously published, author-derived literature, designed to compare clinical outcomes across rare pathogen groups using a consistent analytical framework rather than a systematic review or meta-analysis. Infectious episodes were categorized into four groups: Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) and fungal pathogens (Aspergillus spp.). Primary outcomes were catheter removal and infection-related mortality, while secondary outcomes were analyzed descriptively. In total, 135 infectious episodes were included (17 Gram-positive, 39 Gram-negative, 25 NTM and 55 Aspergillus). Catheter removal occurred in 11.8% of Gram-positive, 12.8% of Gram-negative, 95.8% of NTM and 85.5% of Aspergillus infections, while infection-related mortality was observed only in NTM (4.0%) and Aspergillus infections (38.2%). Exploratory comparisons suggested a gradient of severity across pathogen categories. In conclusion, rare PD pathogens show distinct, pathogen-specific outcome patterns. Rather than a validated prognostic model, we propose descriptive, hypothesis-generating pathogen-based severity tiers that may support early risk appraisal, guide timely decisions regarding catheter salvage versus early removal, and facilitate more tailored, pathogen-informed management in high-risk infections. Full article

This research evaluated a soy sauce produced from germinated soybeans with varying salt concentrations. Soybeans were germinated over 48 and 72 h, then homogenized with roasted wheat and 0.1% of Aspergillus oryzae, and kept three days for koji fermentation. They were then homogenized with 18% and 22% salt, and then fermented for 210 days at ambient temperature for moromi fermentation. Moreover, 5 × 10⁷ CFU/mL of Zygosaccharomyces rouxii was used. The quality of soy sauce made from germinated soybeans over 48 h resulted in the best conditions regarding the physicochemical characteristics and sensory evaluation analysis. Full article

The antimicrobial activity of multicomponent, magnetron-sputtered glass coatings was evaluated against phytopathogenic fungi (Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, Cladosporium fulvum, Alternaria solani) and the chromista Phytophthora infestans, with Aspergillus fumigatus included as a model opportunistic pathogen. Fourteen Cu-based multicomponent coatings were deposited on glass using multi-alloy targets composed of Sn, Zn, Al, Ni, Fe, Ti, Mn, Nb, or Co in two high-transmittance variants (≥85% and ≥88%). Antimicrobial activity was assessed in two assays: (A) spore survival after 24–72 h contact, and (B) hyphal growth over 7 days following coating exposure under light and dark conditions. Spore viability decreased after incubation on high-Cu coatings, which showed inhibition for most strains, particularly B. cinerea, F. oxysporum, and P. infestans. The effects on spore germination were independent of the direct transmittance value of the coated glass. Hyphal growth was generally less affected by a high Cu content for most strains. Hyphal growth of F. oxysporum, C. fulvum, A. solani and B. cinerea was reduced by up to 30% on selected multicomponent coatings. For most strains, hyphal growth showed no inhibition after light incubation on coatings. However, light-dependent effects were observed for A. solani, A. fumigatus and P. infestans, while B. cinerea and C. fulvum showed reduced sensitivity during the first two days. High-Cu coatings were most effective at inhibiting spore germination, whereas hyphal growth on multicomponent coatings may respond to different ions. Therefore, high-Cu, two-component coatings may be recommended for practical greenhouse applications. Full article

High-amylose Lueang Patew Chumphon (LPC) rice, a Thai geographical indication variety, represents an underutilized resource for functional food development. This study investigated sweet fermented LPC rice (SFLPC) compared to conventional sweet fermented glutinous rice (SFGR) through comprehensive microbial, chemical, and nutritional characterization. Starter cakes contained Aspergillus sp., Rhizopus stolonifer, and Pediococcus pentosaceus (>99% similarity by ITS/16S rRNA sequencing and MALDI Biotyper). Both varieties demonstrated comparable fermentation with pH reductions to ~3.5 and lactic acid production (~6 g/L). GC-MS analysis with mass spectral library matching and Linear Retention Index (LRI) comparison tentatively annotated twelve volatile compounds. Absolute peak area analysis revealed distinct variety-specific profiles: SFGR was characterized by significantly higher ethyl palmitate (75.89 ± 19.30 vs. 16.80 ± 7.21 × 10⁶, p = 0.008) and isobutyl alcohol (33.09 ± 3.56 vs. 23.53 ± 1.71 × 10⁶, p = 0.014), exclusive ethyl dodecanoate (44.87 ± 20.60 × 10⁶), and exclusive 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, while SFLPC showed exclusive ethyl acetate formation. Isoamyl alcohol was the dominant volatile in both varieties, with comparable absolute peak areas (273.91 ± 22.65 vs. 267.54 ± 28.78 × 10⁶, ns). SFLPC demonstrated superior mineral retention (2.1-fold phosphorus, 1.9-fold potassium and magnesium) and enhanced antioxidant capacity (IC₅₀: 3.30 vs. 5.20 μg/mL, representing 36% improvement). Degree of gelatinization analysis validated comparable starch gelatinization (32.5–40.1%) despite different cooking methods, confirming volatile differences arose from rice variety rather than processing. These findings demonstrate high-amylose LPC rice as a promising fermented food substrate offering enhanced nutritional properties and volatile compound profiles through traditional fermentation. Full article

Rumenitis is an inflammatory condition of the rumen, typically seen in adult cattle managed on high-energy diets. In calves, it is uncommon and often linked to ruminal drinking due to esophageal groove dysfunction. Early diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific clinical signs. A one-month-old male Limousin calf was presented with persistent non-fetid fluid regurgitation, rhythmic mastication, inappetence, and progressive neurological signs. Clinical examination revealed signs of dehydration and neurological dysfunction. Laboratory evaluation demonstrated metabolic acidosis (pH 7.16), hyperkalemia, and elevated serum urea. Endoscopy identified diffuse mucosal hyperemia, erosions, and fluid accumulation in the rumen. Symptomatic and supportive therapy was initiated; however, the calf died spontaneously. Necropsy was therefore performed, and rumen samples were collected for histological and microbiological investigations. Histopathological analysis confirmed acute suppurative rumenitis. The microbiological culture of rumen and reticulum samples yielded mixed bacterial flora, including Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis. The fungal culture isolated Penicillium spp., Mucoraceae, Geotrichium spp., and Aspergillus fumigatus. This case details the value of integrating clinical examination, blood gas analysis, endoscopy, histopathology, and microbiology in diagnosing rumenitis in young calves. Although Limousin calves are not considered predisposed, management and feeding practices may play a critical role in disease onset. Rumenitis should be considered in calves presenting persistent regurgitation and neurological signs. Early, minimally invasive diagnostics such as endoscopy can improve diagnostic accuracy and inform timely clinical decision-making. Full article

Ochratoxin A (OTA), a secondary metabolite produced by Penicillium and Aspergillus species, contaminates food and feed globally, posing serious threats to both livestock and human health. Among current detoxification strategies, probiotic-based degradation of OTA has emerged as a key research focus. This study aimed to isolate safe probiotic strains with high OTA-detoxifying efficacy to support their potential application in feed and food industries. A total of 57 bacterial strains were isolated from environmental samples, including soil, moldy feed, and animal feces. Among these, a novel strain identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MM28 demonstrated strong OTA-degrading activity, removing 86.31% of OTA (0.4 µg/mL) within 48 h. Whole-genome analysis indicated that B. amyloliquefaciens MM28 harbors functional genes related to glucose metabolism, membrane transport, and properties associated with antibacterial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities, suggesting multiple beneficial traits. In a 28-day chronic exposure study, mice were administered B. amyloliquefaciens MM28 via gavage (1 × 10⁸ CFU/mL). Results showed that both female and male mice in the MM28 group exhibited higher body weight and improved growth performance compared to the PBS control group. Furthermore, intestinal morphology was enhanced in the MM28 group, as indicated by greater villus length and villus-length-to-crypt-depth ratio. The expression of proinflammatory cytokines was also reduced in the treated animals. Moreover, analysis of gut microbiota composition revealed that MM28 supplementation led to an increased abundance of Bacteroides and Desulfovibrio, alongside a reduction in Lachnospira and Oscillospira. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MM28 is a safe and efficient strain capable of degrading OTA. These findings highlight its promising potential as a biological detoxifying agent in food and feed industries. Full article