Search Results (149)

Wild ales represent a diverse category of spontaneously fermented beers, influenced by complex microbial populations and variable ingredients. This study employed an integrated metabolomic profiling approach combining proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopy, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and spectrophotometric assays (DPPH and FRAP) to characterize the molecular composition and antioxidant potential of 22 wild ales from six countries. A total of 53 compounds were identified and quantified using NMR, while 62 compounds were identified by using LC-MS. The compounds in question included organic acids, amino acids, sugars, alcohols, bitter acids, phenolic compounds, and others. Ingredient-based clustering revealed that the addition of dark fruits resulted in a significant increase in the polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity. Concurrently, herb-infused and light-fruit beers exhibited divergent phytochemical profiles. Prolonged aging (>18 months) has been demonstrated to be associated with increased levels of certain amino acids, fermentation-derived aldehydes, and phenolic degradation products. However, the influence of maturation duration on the antioxidant capacity was found to be less significant than that of the type of fruit. Country-specific metabolite trends were revealed, indicating the influence of regional brewing practices on beer composition. Correlation analysis was employed to identify the major contributors to antioxidant activity, with salicylic, dihydroxybenzoic, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acids being identified as the most significant. These findings underscore the biochemical intricacy of wild ales and exemplify metabolomics’ capacity to correlate compositional variation with functionality and authenticity in spontaneously fermented beverages. Full article

Arugula leaves (Diplotaxis tenuifolia L. and Eruca sativa L.) are a must-have ingredient in ready-to-eat salads, as they are prized for their appearance, taste, and flavor. The nutraceutical properties of this leafy vegetable are attributed to the presence of valuable secondary metabolites, such as phenolic acids and glucosinolates. Using UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis and ion chromatography, we characterized the content of phenolic acids, glucosinolates, nitrates, and organic acids in organic arugula [Diplotaxis tenuifolia (L.) DC] and evaluated how the foliar application of three different non-microbial biostimulants (a seaweed extract, a vegetable protein hydrolysate, and a tropical plant extract) modulated the expression of these. Although the application of vegetable protein hydrolysate increased, compared to control plants, the nitrate content, the application of the same biostimulant increased the total content of glucosinolates and phenolic acid derivatives by 5.2 and 17.2%. Specifically, the foliar application of the plant-based biostimulant hydrolyzed protein significantly increased the content of glucoerucin (+22.9%), glucocheirolin (+76.8%), and ferulic acid (+94.1%). The highest values of flavonoid derivatives (173.03 μg g⁻¹ dw) were recorded from plants subjected to the exogenous application of seaweed extract. The results obtained underscore how biostimulants, depending on their origin and composition, can be exploited not only to improve agronomic performance but also to enhance the nutraceutical content of vegetables, guaranteeing end consumers a product with premium quality characteristics. Full article

Climate change has intensified drought stress, threatening global food security by affecting sensitive crops like maize (Zea mays). This study evaluated the potential of Antarctic fungal endophytes (Penicillium chrysogenum and P. brevicompactum) to enhance maize drought tolerance under field conditions with different irrigation regimes. Drought stress reduced soil moisture to 59% of field capacity. UAV-based multispectral imagery monitored plant physiological status using vegetation indices (NDVI, NDRE, SIPI, GNDVI). Inoculated plants showed up to two-fold higher index values under drought, indicating improved stress resilience. Physiological analysis revealed increased photochemical efficiency (0.775), higher chlorophyll and carotenoid contents (45.54 mg/mL), and nearly 80% lower lipid peroxidation in inoculated plants. Lower proline accumulation suggested better water status and reduced osmotic stress. Secondary metabolites such as phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins were elevated, particularly under well-watered conditions. Antioxidant enzyme activity shifted: SOD, CAT, and APX were suppressed, while POD activity increased, indicating reprogrammed oxidative stress responses. Yield components, including cob weight and length, improved significantly with inoculation under drought. These findings demonstrate the potential of Antarctic endophytes to enhance drought resilience in maize and underscore the value of integrating microbial biotechnology with UAV-based remote sensing for sustainable crop management under climate-induced water scarcity. Full article

This study presents an integrated approach to sustainable soil and crop management by evaluating the individual and combined effects of cow manure (CM), rice husk biochar (RHB), and potassium humate (KH)—three underutilized, low-cost organic amendments derived from agricultural byproducts. Uniquely, it investigates how these amendments simultaneously affect soil physical and chemical properties, plant growth, and the accumulation of bioactive compounds in sunflower sprouts, thereby linking soil health to crop nutritional quality. The application of 2% w/w KH alone resulted in the greatest increases in macroaggregation (+0.51), soil pH (from 6.8 to 8.6), and electrical conductivity (+298%). The combination of 1% w/w CM and 2% KH led to the highest increases in soil organic carbon (OC, +62.9%) and soil respiration (+56.4%). Nitrate and available phosphorus (P) peaked with 3% w/w RHB + 2% KH (+120%) and 1% w/w CM + 0.5% KH (+35.5%), respectively. For plant traits, 0.5% w/w KH increased the total leaf area by 61.9%, while 1% w/w CM enhanced shoot and root biomass by 60.8% and 79.0%, respectively. In contrast, 2% w/w KH reduced chlorophyll content (−43.6%). Regarding bioactive compounds, the highest total phenolic content (TPC) was observed with 1% w/w KH (+21.9%), while the strongest DPPH antioxidant activity was found under 1% w/w CM + 1% w/w KH (+72.6%). A correlation analysis revealed that biomass production and secondary metabolite accumulation are shaped by trade-offs arising from resource allocation under stress or nutrient limitations. Potassium, P, soil microbial respiration, and OC emerged as key integrators connecting soil structure, fertility, and plant metabolic responses. Overall, the combination of 1% w/w CM with 0.5–1% w/w KH proved to be the most effective strategy under the tested conditions. Full article

Plant-growth-promoting fungi (PGPF) play a central role in promoting sustainable agriculture by improving plant growth and resilience. The aim of this literature review is to survey the impacts of Trichoderma spp. and Penicillium spp. on various agricultural and horticultural plants. The information provided in this manuscript was obtained from randomized control experiments, review articles, and analytical studies and observations gathered from numerous literature sources such as Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct. The keywords used were the common and Latin names of various agricultural and horticultural species, fungal endophytes, plant-growth-promoting fungi, Trichoderma, Penicillium, microbial biostimulants, and biotic and abiotic stresses. Endophytic fungi refer to fungi that live in plant tissues throughout part of or the entire life cycle by starting a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship with its host without any negative effects. They are also capable of producing compounds and a variety of bioactive components such as terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic components. Penicillium is extensively known for its production of secondary metabolites, its impact as a bioinoculant to help with crop productivity, and its effectiveness in sustainable crop production. The plant-growth-promotion effects of Trichoderma spp. are related to better absorption of mineral nutrients, enhanced morphological growth, better reproductive potential and yield, and better induction of disease resistance. Both Penicillium spp. and Trichoderma spp. are effective, affordable, safe, and eco-friendly biocontrol agents for various plant species, and they can be considered economically important microorganisms for both agricultural and horticultural sciences. The present review article aims to present the most up-to-date results and findings regarding the practical applications of two important types of PGPF, namely Penicillium spp., and Trichoderma spp., in agricultural and horticultural species, considering the mechanisms of actions of these species of fungi. Full article

With the sustainable increase in agricultural productivity, the need for safer, environmentally friendly pesticide alternatives is also growing. Metabolites of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes) are emerging as potential bioactive compounds for integrated pest and disease management. These compounds comprise amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids, organic acids, phenolics, peptides, alkaloids, polyketides, and volatile organic compounds. The majority of them have insecticidal, fungicidal, and nematicidal activities. In this review, the classifications, biosynthetic pathways, and ecological functions of primary and secondary metabolites produced by microorganisms are discussed, including their mechanisms of action, ranging from competition to systemic acquired resistance in host plants. The article highlights the importance of microbial genera (viz., Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Trichoderma sp., Streptomyces sp., etc.) in making chemicals and biopesticides for crop defense. We present the possible applications of microbial biosynthesis strategies and synthetic biology tools in bioprocess development, covering recent innovations in formulation, delivery, and pathway engineering to enhance metabolite production. This review emphasizes the significance of microbial metabolites in improving the plant immunity, yield performance, reduction in pesticide application, and the sustainability of an ecological, sustainable, and resilient agricultural system. Full article

Microbial decomposition of persistent natural compounds such as phenolic lignin and polysaccharides in plant cell walls plays a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and underpins diverse biotechnological applications. Among microbial decomposers, fungi from the Ascomycota and Basidiomycota phyla have evolved specialized mechanisms for efficient lignocellulosic biomass degradation, employing extracellular enzymes and synergistic fungal consortia. Fungal coculture, defined as the controlled, axenic cultivation of multiple fungal species or strains in a single culture medium, is a promising strategy for industrial processes. This approach to biomass conversion offers potential for enhancing production of enzymes, biofuels, and other high-value bioproducts, while enabling investigation of ecological dynamics and metabolic pathways relevant to biorefinery operations. Lignocellulosic biomass conversion into fuels, energy, and biochemicals is central to the bioeconomy, integrating advanced biotechnology with sustainable resource use. Recent advancements in -omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, have facilitated detailed analysis of fungal metabolism, uncovering novel secondary metabolites and enzymatic pathways activated under specific growth conditions. This review highlights the potential of fungal coculture systems to advance sustainable biomass conversion in alignment with circular bioeconomy goals. Full article

Background/Objectives: Biocorrosion, driven by microbial colonization and biofilm formation, poses a significant threat to the integrity of metal artifacts, particularly those composed of copper and its alloys. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterial species that reduces nitrates, plays a key role in this process. This study explores the potential of two metabolite-rich plant extracts, Aloe vera and Opuntia ficus-indica, as sustainable biobased inhibitors of microbial-induced corrosion (MICOR). Methods: The antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of the extracts were evaluated using minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays, time-kill kinetics, and biofilm prevention and removal tests on copper, bronze, and brass samples. Spectrophotometric and microbiological methods were used to quantify bacterial growth and biofilm density. Results: Both extracts exhibited significant antibacterial activity, with MIC values of 8.3% (v/v). A. vera demonstrated superior bactericidal effects, achieving reductions of ≥3 log₁₀ in bacterial counts at lower concentrations. In antibiofilm assays, both extracts effectively prevented biofilm formation and reduced established biofilms, with A. vera exhibiting greater efficacy against them. The active metabolites—anthraquinones, phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins—likely contribute to these effects. Conclusions: These findings highlight the dual role of A. vera and O. ficus-indica extracts as both corrosion and biocorrosion inhibitors. The secondary metabolite profiles of these plants support their application as eco-friendly alternatives in the conservation of metal cultural heritage objects. Full article

Olive oil production generates vast quantities of by-products, with olive mill wastewater (OMW) being a particularly challenging effluent. Characterized by its dark color, high acidity, and rich composition of organic matter, phenolic compounds, and residual oils, OMW resists conventional degradation methods and poses significant environmental risks due to its phytotoxicity and microbial inhibition. Addressing this issue requires sustainable solutions that align with circular economy principles. A promising strategy involves the biotechnological valorization of OMW using the non-conventional yeast Yarrowia lipolytica, which thrives on organic-rich substrates and converts them into high-value metabolites. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in Y. lipolytica applications for OMW valorization, emphasizing its role in developing eco-friendly industrial processes. It begins by outlining the physicochemical challenges of OMW and the metabolic versatility of Y. lipolytica, including its ability to adapt to acidic, phenolic-rich environments. Subsequent sections critically evaluate the yeast’s capacity to synthesize commercially valuable products such as lipases (used in the food and biofuel industries), citric acid (a food and pharmaceutical additive), and polyols like mannitol and erythritol (low-calorie sweeteners). Strategies to optimize microbial productivity, such as substrate pre-treatment, nutrient supplementation, and process engineering, are also discussed. By synthesizing current research, the review highlights how Y. lipolytica-driven OMW valorization can mitigate environmental harm while creating economic opportunities, bridging the gap between waste management and green chemistry. Full article

Biofilms are complex microbial communities encased within a self-produced extracellular matrix, which plays a critical role in chronic infections and antimicrobial resistance. These enhance pathogen survival and virulence by protecting against host immune defenses and conventional antimicrobial treatments, posing substantial challenges in clinical contexts such as device-associated infections and chronic wounds. Secondary metabolites derived from medicinal plants, such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils, have gained attention as promising agents against biofilm formation, microbial virulence, and antibiotic resistance. These natural compounds not only limit microbial growth and biofilm development but also disrupt communication between bacteria, known as quorum sensing, which reduces their ability to cause disease. Through progress in nanotechnology, various nanocarriers such as lipid-based systems, polymeric nanoparticles, and metal nanoparticles have been developed to improve the solubility, stability, and cellular uptake of phytochemicals. In addition, the synergistic use of plant-based metabolites with conventional antibiotics or antifungal drugs has shown promise in tackling drug-resistant microorganisms and revitalizing existing drugs. This review comprehensively discusses the efficacy of pure secondary metabolites from medicinal plants, both as individuals and in nanoformulated forms or in combination with antimicrobial agents, as alternative strategies to control biofilm-forming pathogens. The molecular mechanisms underlying their antibiofilm and antivirulence activities are discussed in detail. Lastly, the current pitfalls, limitations, and emerging directions in translating these natural compounds into clinical applications are critically evaluated. Full article

This study investigated the effects of metabolites from the beneficial bacteria Pseudomonas N5.12 formulated as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on tomato plants and soil microbial communities to explore the environmental safety of AgNPs for future applications in agriculture. AgNPs coated with bacterial metabolites exhibit biological activity that is dose-dependent, as shown by cytoskeleton alterations in Arabidopsis roots. The results show that N5.12-AgNPs can trigger beneficial effects on tomato plants, either when delivered through the leaves or roots, indicating the effectiveness of the metabolites formulated as NP. These effects consist of lowering oxidative stress metabolism and, therefore, improving plant resilience and increasing chlorophyll a and carotenoid content. The significant reduction in H₂O₂ content was not associated with ROS-scavenging enzymes but with an increase in total phenolic content. In contrast, AgNPs had a minimal impact on bacterial metabolic activity, irrespective of the application method. The structure of microbial communities was not altered by AgNPs, indicating environmental safety for agronomic applications. These findings suggest that Pseudomonas N5.12 metabolites formulated in AgNPs at physiological concentrations (30 ppm) may offer agricultural benefits by improving plant health and appearing as an environmentally safe alternative for agriculture. Full article

Broccoli, a highly valued Brassica vegetable, is renowned for its rich content of bioactive substances, including glucosinolates, phenolic compounds, vitamins, and essential minerals. Glucosinolates (GSLs), secondary plant metabolites, are particularly abundant in broccoli. The global consumption of broccoli has increased due to its high nutritional value. This review examines the essential bioactive compounds in broccoli and their biological properties. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that broccoli exhibits various biological activities, including antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity and antidiabetic effects. This review analyzes several aspects of the chemical and biological activity of GSLs and their hydrolysis products, isothiocyanates such as sulforaphane, as well as phenolic compounds. Particular emphasis is placed on sulforaphane’s chemical structure, the reactivity of its isothiocyanate fraction (-NCS), and given the different behavior of SFN enantiomers, a wide and detailed review of the chemical synthesis methods described, by microbial oxidation, or using a chiral ruthenium catalyst and more widely using chiral auxiliaries for synthesizing sulforaphane enantiomers. In addition, the methods of chiral resolution of racemates by HPLC are reviewed, explaining the different chiral fillers used for this resolution and a third section on resolution using the formation of diastereomeric complexes and subsequent separation on achiral columns. Additionally, this review highlights the presence of antimicrobial peptides in broccoli, which have shown potential applications in food preservation and as natural alternatives to synthetic antibiotics. The antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) derived from broccoli target bacterial membranes, enzymes, oxidative stress pathways and inflammatory mediators, contributing to their effectiveness against a wide range of pathogens and with potential therapeutic applications. Full article

This study employed shotgun metagenomics to investigate microbial dynamics, phage-bacteria interactions, and functional genes throughout a three-month apple vinegar fermentation process. A total of 5621 microbial species were identified, revealing three distinct phases: (i) Enterobacteria and non-Saccharomyces species dominated the initial substrate; (ii) S. cerevisiae and Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides prevailed in the intermediate phase; and (iii) acetic acid bacteria (Acetobacter ghanesis and Gluconobacter spp.), alongside non-Saccharomyces species (Pichia kudriavzevii and Malassezia restricta), dominated the final stages. Bacteriophage analysis revealed the presence of phages targeting spoilage bacteria, such as Pseudomonas and Erwinia, suggesting a role in regulating microbial stability and enhancing fermentation control. Functional metagenomic analysis highlighted key pathways associated with microbial growth and metabolite production, including carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, energy production, and glycan biosynthesis. Enzymes involved in stress adaptation and secondary metabolism, including oxidative phosphorylation and phenolic compound synthesis, demonstrated microbial resilience and their potential role in shaping the product’s sensory and functional properties. Moreover, Enterobacteriaceae species were associated with pectin degradation during the early stages, aiding substrate breakdown. These findings are crucial for microbial and phage management in fermentation technology, offering valuable insights for innovation in the vinegar industry. Full article

Cold climate viticulture is challenged by climatic variability, including increased frost risk, shorter growing seasons, and unpredictable weather events that impact vine productivity and grape quality. Global warming is altering traditional viticulture zones, prompting the exploration of new regions for grape cultivation, the selection of climate-resilient cultivars, and the implementation of adaptive practices. This review synthesizes recent advances in adaptive viticulture practices and plant growth regulator applications, highlighting novel molecular and physiological insights on cold stress resilience and berry quality. Key strategies include delayed winter pruning to mitigate frost damage, osmoprotectant application to improve freeze tolerance, and canopy management techniques (cluster thinning and defoliation) to enhance berry ripening and wine composition. Their effectiveness depends on vineyard microclimate, soil properties and variety-specific physiological response. Cover cropping is examined for its role in vine vigor regulation, improving soil microbial diversity, and water retention, though its effectiveness depends on soil type, participation patterns, and vineyard management practices. Recent transcriptomic and metabolomic studies have provided new regulatory mechanisms in cold stress adaptation, highlighting the regulatory roles of abscisic acid, brassinosteroids, ethylene, and salicylic acid in dormancy induction, oxidative stress response, and osmotic regulation. Reflective mulch technologies are currently examined for their ability to enhance light interception, modulating secondary metabolite accumulation, improving technological maturity (soluble solids, pH, and titratable acidity) and enhancing phenolic compounds content. The effectiveness of these strategies remains highly site-specific, influenced by variety selection and pruning methods particularly due to their differences on sugar accumulation and berry weight. Future research should prioritize long-term vineyard trials to refine these adaptive strategies, integrate genetic and transcriptomic insights into breeding programs to improve cold hardiness, and develop precision viticulture tools tailored to cold climate vineyard management. Full article

Brewer’s yeast has high nutritional value and contains bioactive compounds that may promote health. Functionalized canola meal (FCM) is a high-fiber ingredient that has been proposed as a carrier for brewer’s yeast. The objective of this experiment was to determine the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of diets containing yeast-enriched FCM and test their effects on the fecal characteristics and microbiota, skin measures, and serum oxidative stress markers of adult dogs. Twelve dogs were fed four extruded kibble diets (control (no FCM or yeast), FCM + low yeast dose, FCM + medium yeast dose, and FCM + high yeast dose) in a replicated 4x4 LSD. Dogs fed yeast-enriched FCM had greater wet fecal output (~15% greater than control). The ATTD of DM, OM, and fat was lower in the diets containing FCM, although the values remained >80% for all macronutrients. The yeast-enriched FCM altered the relative abundance of a few bacterial genera (Eubacterium brachy, Peptoclostridium, Ruminococcus gnavus) and fecal phenol and indole concentrations. Other fecal characteristics, metabolites, bacterial diversity indices, skin measures, or oxidative stress markers were not affected. These findings suggest that yeast-enriched FCM can be incorporated into canine diets without compromising stool quality or nutrient digestibility and may affect microbial metabolism. Full article