A Review on the Synthesis and Bioactivity Aspects of Beauvericin, a Fusarium Mycotoxin

In vitro assessment of emerging mycotoxins co-occurring in cheese: a potential health hazard

Some Penicillium strains used in cheese ripening produce emerging mycotoxins, notably roquefortine C (ROQC) and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), as well as enniatins (ENNs) and beauvericin (BEA). Co-occurrence of these mycotoxins in natural samples has been reported worldwide, however, most studies focus on the toxicity of a single mycotoxin. In the present study, the effects of ROQC and CPA alone and in combination with BEA and ENNs A, A1, B, and B1 were analysed in human neuroblastoma cells. ROQC and CPA reduced cell viability, with IC50 values of 49.5 and 7.3 µM, respectively, and induced caspase-8-mediated apoptosis. When ROQC and CPA were binary combined with ENNs, an enhancement of their individual effects was observed. Furthermore, a clear synergism was produced when ROQC and CPA were mixed with the four ENNs. An additive effect was also described for the combination of CPA + ENNs (A, A1, B, B1) + BEA. Finally, the effects of commercial cheese extracts containing the mentioned mycotoxins were evaluated, finding a strong reduction in cell viability. These results suggest that the co-occurrence of emerging mycotoxins in natural matrices could pose a potential health risk.

Metabolome and transcriptome unveil the mechanism of light on regulating beauvericin synthesis in Cordyceps chanhua

Cordyceps chanhua, an important cordycipitoid medical mushroom with wide use in Asia, has gained attention for its bioactive component beauvericin (BEA), which is of medicinal value as a drug lead, but also of food safety risk. Recent observations by our group revealed a significant decrease of BEA content in C. chanhua when exposed to light, but the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, a comprehensive approach combining metabolomics and transcriptomics was employed to investigate the effects of white light on the secondary metabolism of C. chanhua for elucidation of the influence of light on BEA biosynthesis in this fungus. The result showed that the genes and metabolites involved in the synthesis of D-hydroxyisovaleric acid, a precursor of BEA synthesis, were down-regulated under light exposure, while those associated with the synthesis of phenylalanine, another precursor of BEA synthesis, were up-regulated leading to elevated phenylalanine levels. It suggested that the suppressive effect of light on BEA synthesis in C. chanhua occurred primarily through the inhibition of D-hydroxyisovaleric acid synthesis, while the enhanced phenylalanine biosynthesis likely directed towards other metabolic pathway such as pigment synthesis. These results contributed to a better understanding on how light modulates the secondary metabolism of C. chanhua and provided valuable guidance for optimizing BEA production in cultivation practices.

Anti-tumor activity of beauvericin: focus on intracellular signaling pathways

Beauvericin, a Fusarium mycotoxin commonly found in feeds, particularly cereals worldwide, exhibits a wide array of biofunction. It exhibits anticancer characteristics in addition to its antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial capabilities against gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. The mechanism underlying most of beauvericin's properties lies in its ionophoric activity. By facilitating calcium (Ca2+) flow from the extracellular space as well as its release from intracellular reservoirs, beauvericin increases intracellular free Ca2+. This elevation in Ca2+ levels leads to detrimental effects on mitochondria and oxidative stress, ultimately resulting in apoptosis and cell death. Studies on various cancer cell lines have shown that beauvericin induces apoptosis upon exposure. Moreover, besides its cytotoxic effects, beauvericin also inhibits cancer growth and progression by exerting anti-angiogenic and anti-migratory effects on cancer cells. Additionally, beauvericin possesses immunomodulatory properties, albeit less explored. Recent research indicates its potential to enhance the maturation and activation of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells, both directly through its interaction with Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and indirectly by increasing intracellular Ca2+ levels. Hence, beauvericin could serve as an adjuvant in chemoimmunotherapy regimens to enhance treatment outcomes. Given these diverse properties, beauvericin emerges as an intriguing candidate for developing effective cancer treatments. This review explores the cellular signaling pathways involved in its anticancer effects.

Releasing Preferentially Sequestered Na+ from Its Confinement by Beauvericin: A Single Water Molecule is the Accomplice

Beauvericin (Bv) is a natural ionophore capable of transporting ions across biological membranes. Mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy show that Bv specifically captures sodium ions with a unique 6-fold coordination in its cavity, which illustrates how ions are carried through the membrane. But with no reports on how ions are released from Bv at the interface, a complete picture of the ion transport process has yet to be established. In this study, conformational changes of Bv complexes with alkali metal ions upon hydration were investigated using infrared spectroscopy and computational calculations. The addition of a single water molecule to Na+Bv pries the ion away from the 6-fold cavity to the amide face of the ionophore, evidence of the first step of ion release. In contrast, there is little impact on the other M+Bv complexes, with the ion bound to the three carbonyl groups on the amide face. Analysis of the carbonyl C═O and water OH stretching modes reveals the competition between ion-ionophore, ion-water, and water-ionophore interactions and demonstrates how water actively participates in ion transport by initiating ion release from the ionophore.

Emerging mycotoxins and preventive strategies related to gut microbiota changes: probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics - a systematic review

Recent research has focused on the involvement of the gut microbiota in various diseases, where probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics (PPSP) exert beneficial effects through modulation of the microbiome. This systematic review aims to provide insight into the interplay among emerging mycotoxins, gut microbiota, and PPSP. The review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. In this review, unregulated yet highly recurrent mycotoxins are classified as emerging mycotoxins. The most frequently observed mycotoxins included those from the Fusarium genus-enniatins (n = 11) and beauvericin (n = 11)-and the Alternaria genus-alternariol monomethyl ether, altertoxin, and tentoxin (n = 10). Among probiotics, the most studied genera were Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Inulin and cellulose were the most found prebiotics. Data on synbiotics and postbiotics are scarce. Studies have shown that both the gut microbiota and PPSP can detoxify and mitigate the harmful effects of emerging mycotoxins. PPSP not only reduced mycotoxin bioaccessibility, but also counteracted their detrimental effects by activating health-promoting pathways such as short-chain fatty acid production, genoprotection, and reduction of oxidative stress. However, both quantitative and qualitative data remain limited, indicating a need for further in vivo and long-term studies. The formulation of PPSP as functional foods, feeds, or nutraceuticals should be considered a preventive strategy against the toxicity of emerging mycotoxins, for which, there is no established regulatory framework.

Impact of enniatins and beauvericin on lipid metabolism: Insights from a 3D HepaRG spheroid model

Emerging mycotoxins enniatins (ENNs) and beauvericin (BEA) pose potential health risks to humans through dietary exposure. However, research into their mechanisms of toxicity is limited, with a lack of comprehensive toxicological data. This study investigates from a hepatic lipid metabolism perspective, establishing a more precise and reliable 3D HepaRG hepatocyte spheroid model as an alternative for toxicity assessment. Utilizing physiological indices, histopathological analyses, lipidomics, and molecular docking techniques, it comprehensively elucidates the effects of ENNs and BEA on hepatic lipid homeostasis and their molecular toxicological mechanisms. Our findings indicate that ENNs and BEA impact cellular viability and biochemical functions, significantly altering lipid metabolism pathways, particularly those involving glycerophospholipids and sphingolipids. Molecular docking has demonstrated strong binding affinity of ENNs and BEA with key enzymes in lipid metabolism such as Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α (PPARα) and Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), revealing the mechanistic basis for their hepatotoxic effects and potential to impair liver function and human health. These insights enhance our understanding of the potential hepatotoxicity of such fungal toxins and lay a foundation for the assessment of their health risks.

What are the 100 most cited fungal genera?

The global diversity of fungi has been estimated between 2 to 11 million species, of which only about 155 000 have been named. Most fungi are invisible to the unaided eye, but they represent a major component of biodiversity on our planet, and play essential ecological roles, supporting life as we know it. Although approximately 20 000 fungal genera are presently recognised, the ecology of most remains undetermined. Despite all this diversity, the mycological community actively researches some fungal genera more commonly than others. This poses an interesting question: why have some fungal genera impacted mycology and related fields more than others? To address this issue, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to identify the top 100 most cited fungal genera. A thorough database search of the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed was performed to establish which genera are most cited. The most cited 10 genera are Saccharomyces, Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Botrytis, Pichia, Cryptococcus and Alternaria. Case studies are presented for the 100 most cited genera with general background, notes on their ecology and economic significance and important research advances. This paper provides a historic overview of scientific research of these genera and the prospect for further research. Citation: Bhunjun CS, Chen YJ, Phukhamsakda C, Boekhout T, Groenewald JZ, McKenzie EHC, Francisco EC, Frisvad JC, Groenewald M, Hurdeal VG, Luangsa-ard J, Perrone G, Visagie CM, Bai FY, Błaszkowski J, Braun U, de Souza FA, de Queiroz MB, Dutta AK, Gonkhom D, Goto BT, Guarnaccia V, Hagen F, Houbraken J, Lachance MA, Li JJ, Luo KY, Magurno F, Mongkolsamrit S, Robert V, Roy N, Tibpromma S, Wanasinghe DN, Wang DQ, Wei DP, Zhao CL, Aiphuk W, Ajayi-Oyetunde O, Arantes TD, Araujo JC, Begerow D, Bakhshi M, Barbosa RN, Behrens FH, Bensch K, Bezerra JDP, Bilański P, Bradley CA, Bubner B, Burgess TI, Buyck B, Čadež N, Cai L, Calaça FJS, Campbell LJ, Chaverri P, Chen YY, Chethana KWT, Coetzee B, Costa MM, Chen Q, Custódio FA, Dai YC, Damm U, de Azevedo Santiago ALCM, De Miccolis Angelini RM, Dijksterhuis J, Dissanayake AJ, Doilom M, Dong W, Alvarez-Duarte E, Fischer M, Gajanayake AJ, Gené J, Gomdola D, Gomes AAM, Hausner G, He MQ, Hou L, Iturrieta-González I, Jami F, Jankowiak R, Jayawardena RS, Kandemir H, Kiss L, Kobmoo N, Kowalski T, Landi L, Lin CG, Liu JK, Liu XB, Loizides M, Luangharn T, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Makhathini Mkhwanazi GJ, Manawasinghe IS, Marin-Felix Y, McTaggart AR, Moreau PA, Morozova OV, Mostert L, Osiewacz HD, Pem D, Phookamsak R, Pollastro S, Pordel A, Poyntner C, Phillips AJL, Phonemany M, Promputtha I, Rathnayaka AR, Rodrigues AM, Romanazzi G, Rothmann L, Salgado-Salazar C, Sandoval-Denis M, Saupe SJ, Scholler M, Scott P, Shivas RG, Silar P, Souza-Motta CM, Silva-Filho AGS, Spies CFJ, Stchigel AM, Sterflinger K, Summerbell RC, Svetasheva TY, Takamatsu S, Theelen B, Theodoro RC, Thines M, Thongklang N, Torres R, Turchetti B, van den Brule T, Wang XW, Wartchow F, Welti S, Wijesinghe SN, Wu F, Xu R, Yang ZL, Yilmaz N, Yurkov A, Zhao L, Zhao RL, Zhou N, Hyde KD, Crous PW (2024). What are the 100 most cited fungal genera? Studies in Mycology 108: 1-411. doi: 10.3114/sim.2024.108.01.

Toxicological evaluation of microbial secondary metabolites in the context of European active substance approval for plant protection products

Risk assessment (RA) of microbial secondary metabolites (SM) is part of the EU approval process for microbial active substances (AS) used in plant protection products (PPP). As the number of potentially produced microbial SM may be high for a certain microbial strain and existing information on the metabolites often are low, data gaps are frequently identified during the RA. Often, RA cannot conclusively clarify the toxicological relevance of the individual substances. This work presents data and RA conclusions on four metabolites, Beauvericin, 2,3-deepoxy-2,3-didehydro-rhizoxin (DDR), Leucinostatin A and Swainsonin in detail as examples for the challenging process of RA. To overcome the problem of incomplete assessment reports, RA of microbial AS for PPP is in need of new approaches. In view of the Next Generation Risk Assessment (NGRA), the combination of literature data, omic-methods, in vitro and in silico methods combined in adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) can be used for an efficient and targeted identification and assessment of metabolites of concern (MoC).

Next generation sequencing-aided screening, isolation, molecular identification, and antimicrobial potential for bacterial endophytes from the medicinal plant, Elephantorrhiza elephantina

Elephantorrhiza elephantina, a wild plant in southern Africa, is utilized in traditional medicine for various ailments, leading to its endangerment and listing on the Red List of South African Plants. To date, there have been no reports on bacterial endophytes from this plant, their classes of secondary metabolites, and potential medicinal properties. This study presents (i) taxonomic characterization of bacterial endophytes in leaf and root tissues using 16S rRNA, (ii) bacterial isolation, morphological, and phylogenetic characterization, (iii) bacterial growth, metabolite extraction, and LC-MS-based metabolite fingerprinting, and (iv) antimicrobial testing of bacterial crude extracts. Next-generation sequencing yielded 693 and 2,459 DNA read counts for the rhizomes and leaves, respectively, detecting phyla including Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, Gemmatimonadota, Actinobacteriota, Verrucomicrobiota, Dependentiae, Firmicutes, and Armatimonodata. At the genus level, Novosphingobium, Mesorhizobium, Methylobacterium, and Ralstonia were the most dominant in both leaves and rhizomes. From root tissues, four bacterial isolates were selected, and 16S rRNA-based phylogenetic characterization identified two closely related Pseudomonas sp. (strain BNWU4 and 5), Microbacterium oxydans BNWU2, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia BNWU1. The ethyl acetate:chloroform (1:1 v/v) organic extract from each isolate exhibited antimicrobial activity against all selected bacterial pathogens. Strain BNWU5 displayed the highest activity, with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 62.5 μg/mL to 250 μg/mL against diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica, antibiotic-resistant Vibrio cholerae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Enterococcus durans. LC-MS analysis of the crude extract revealed common antimicrobial metabolites produced by all isolates, including Phenoxomethylpenicilloyl (penicilloyl V), cis-11-Eicosenamide, 3-Hydroxy-3-phenacyloxindole, and 9-Octadecenamide.

Computational Applications: Beauvericin from a Mycotoxin into a Humanized Drug

Drug discovery was initially attributed to coincidence or experimental research. Historically, the traditional approaches were complex, lengthy, and expensive, entailing costly random screening of synthesized compounds or natural products coupled with in vivo validation largely depending on the availability of appropriate animal models. Currently, in silico modeling has become a vital tool for drug discovery and repurposing. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations are being used to find the best match between a ligand and a molecule, an approach that could help predict the biomolecular interactions between the drug and the target host. Beauvericin (BEA) is an emerging mycotoxin produced by the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana, being originally studied for its potential use as a pesticide. BEA is now considered a molecule of interest for its possible use in diverse biotechnological applications in the pharmaceutical industry and medicine. In this manuscript, we provide an overview of the repurposing of BEA as a potential therapeutic agent for multiple diseases. Furthermore, considerable emphasis is given to the fundamental role of in silico techniques to (i) further investigate the activity spectrum of BEA, a secondary metabolite, and (ii) elucidate its mode of action.

First Total Syntheses of Beauvericin A and allo-Beauvericin A

The first total syntheses of beauvericin A and allo-beauvericin A were achieved. N-Methyl-l-phenylalanine, (2R)-hydroxylvaleric acid, and (2R,3S)- or (2R,3R)-2-hydroxy-2-methylpentanoic acid were linked and cyclized to form the target natural products. The structure of synthetic beauvericin A was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. NMR data of the synthetic beauvericins were identical with those of the reported natural products. These results secure the structures of natural products, as originally proposed in the isolation studies.

Endophytic fungi as a potential source of anti-cancer drug

Endophytes are considered one of the major sources of bioactive compounds used in different aspects of health care including cancer treatment. When colonized, they either synthesize these bioactive compounds as a part of their secondary metabolite production or augment the host plant machinery in synthesising such bioactive compounds. Hence, the study of endophytes has drawn the attention of the scientific community in the last few decades. Among the endophytes, endophytic fungi constitute a major portion of endophytic microbiota. This review deals with a plethora of anti-cancer compounds derived from endophytic fungi, highlighting alkaloids, lignans, terpenes, polyketides, polyphenols, quinones, xanthenes, tetralones, peptides, and spirobisnaphthalenes. Further, this review emphasizes modern methodologies, particularly omics-based techniques, asymmetric dihydroxylation, and biotic elicitors, showcasing the dynamic and evolving landscape of research in this field and describing the potential of endophytic fungi as a source of anticancer drugs in the future.

Low beauvericin concentrations promote PC-12 cell survival under oxidative stress by regulating lipid metabolism and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling

Beauvericin (BEA), a naturally occurring cyclic peptide with good pharmacological activity, has been widely explored in anticancer research. Although BEA is toxic, studies have demonstrated its antioxidant activity. However, to date, the antioxidant mechanisms of BEA remain unclear. Herein, we conducted a comprehensive and detailed study of the antioxidant mechanism of BEA using an untargeted metabolomics approach, subsequently validating the results. BEA concentrations of 0.5 and 1 μM significantly inhibited H2O2-induced oxidative stress (OS), decreased reactive oxygen species levels in PC-12 cells, and restored the mitochondrial membrane potential. Untargeted metabolomics indicated that BEA was primarily involved in lipid-related metabolism, suggesting its role in resisting OS in PC-12 cells by participating in lipid metabolism. BEA combated OS damage by increasing phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and sphingolipid levels. In the current study, BEA upregulated proteins related to the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, thereby promoting cell survival. These findings support the antioxidant activity of BEA at low concentrations, warranting further research into its pharmacological effects.

Virulence factors of the genus Fusarium with targets in plants

Fusarium spp. comprise various species of filamentous fungi that cause severe diseases in plant crops of both agricultural and forestry interest. These plant pathogens produce a wide range of molecules with diverse chemical structures and biological activities. Genetic functional analyses of some of these compounds have shown their role as virulence factors (VF). However, their mode of action and contributions to the infection process for many of these molecules are still unknown. This review aims to analyze the state of the art in Fusarium VF, emphasizing their biological targets on the plant hosts. It also addresses the current experimental approaches to improve our understanding of their role in virulence and suggests relevant research questions that remain to be answered with a greater focus on species of agroeconomic importance. In this review, a total of 37 confirmed VF are described, including 22 proteinaceous and 15 non-proteinaceous molecules, mainly from Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium graminearum and, to a lesser extent, in Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium solani.

Lamium album Flower Extracts: A Novel Approach for Controlling Fusarium Growth and Mycotoxin Biosynthesis

Lamium album is a medicinal flowering plant that is rich in bioactive compounds with various biological properties. Fusarium species, known for causing significant crop losses and mycotoxin contamination, pose threats to food safety and human health. While synthetic fungicides are commonly employed for fungal management, their environmental impact prompts the ongoing development of alternative methods. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of L. album flower extracts in inhibiting the in vitro growth and biosynthesis of mycotoxins by Fusarium culmorum and F. proliferatum strains. The extracts were obtained by supercritical fluid extraction using CO2 (SC-CO2). The effects of various concentrations (2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10%) were assessed on a potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium using the "poisoning" technique. L. album flower extracts reduced mycelium growth by 0 to 30.59% for F. culmorum and 27.71 to 42.97% for F. proliferatum. Ergosterol content was reduced by up to 88.87% for F. culmorum and 93.17% for F. proliferatum. Similarly, the amounts of synthesized mycotoxins produced by both strains were also lower compared to control cultures. These findings are a preliminary phase for further in vivo tests planned to determine the fungistatic effect of L. album flower extracts on cereal substrates as seedlings incubated in controlled environments and under field conditions. Their phytotoxicity and biological stability, as well as the possibility of formulating a bio-preparation to protect cereals against Fusarium infections, will be evaluated.

Effects of beauvericin on the blood cells of Bombyx mori

In this study, silkworms were treated by injection of the bioactive depsipeptide beauvericin (BEA) to explore its effect on the cellular immunity of larvae of the silkworm Bombyx mori. The results showed that: The LC50 of BEA for silkworms on the 3rd day of the 4th instar was 362.36 µM. The total count of circulating hemocytes in the silkworms decreased at 12 h after injection with 350 µM BEA, and reached the minimum value at 72 h post-treatment; at 48 h post-treatment, a large number of nodules formed by the aggregation of blood cells of the silkworms were observed under the light microscope. The survival rate of hemocytes in the larvae treated with BEA was significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in vivo and in vitro. The encapsulation of Q-Sepharose Fast Flow (QFF) gel particles by hemocytes in the treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group at 1.5 h and 3 h post-treatment (P < 0.05). Moreover, the melanization ratio of QFF gel particles kept increasing with treatment time. The melanization rate at 24 h after treatment was significantly higher than that at other times (P < 0.05), reaching 55.33 %. Under the scanning electron microscope, BEA-treated larvae showed protrusions on the surface of their blood cells in vivo. Under the transmission electron microscope, it was observed that silkworm hemocytes were vacuolated. This study demonstrated that BEA had an effect on the blood cells of silkworms, and has thrown some light on the inhibitory effect and mechanism of BEA on insect cellular immunity.

Infrared Spectra of Beauvericin-Alkaline Earth Metal Ion Complexes─Ion Preference to Physiological Ions

Beauvericin (Bv) is a naturally occurring ionophore that selectively transports ions through cell membranes. However, the intrinsic ion selectivity of Bv for alkaline earth metal ions (M2+) is yet to be established due to inconsistent results from condensed phase experiments. Based on fluorescence quenching rates, Ca2+ appears to be preferred while extraction experiments favor Mg2+. In this study, we apply cold ion trap─infrared spectroscopy to Bv-M2+ coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The mass spectrum shows that Bv favors binding to physiologically active ions Mg2+ and Ca2+ although it can form complexes with all four alkaline earth metal ions. Infrared spectroscopy, as measured by the H2 tag technique, reveals that Bv binds Mg2+ and Ca2+ ions by six carbonyl oxygens in the center of its cavity. This observation is supported by theoretical calculations. Other alkaline earth metal ions are bound by three carbonyl groups at the amide face. This difference in configuration is consistent with the binding preferences for the alkaline earth metal ions.

On the Potential Role of the (Pseudo-) Jahn-Teller Effect in the Membrane Transport Processes: Enniatin B and Beauvericin

The molecular structure of mycotoxins enniatin B and beauvericin, which are used as ionophores, was studied using density functional theory in various symmetry groups and singly charged states. We have shown that the charge addition or removal causes significant structural changes. Unlike the neutral C3 molecules, the stability of the charged C1 structures was explained by the Jahn-Teller or Pseudo-Jahn-Teller effect. This finding agrees with the available experimental X-ray structures of their metal complexes where electron density transfer from the metal can be expected. Hence, the membrane permeability of metal sandwich-structure complexes possessing antimicrobial activities is modulated by the conformational changes.

Beauvericin suppresses the proliferation and pulmonary metastasis of osteosarcoma by selectively inhibiting TGFBR2 pathway

Osteosarcoma (OS) patients, particularly those with distant metastasis, experience rapid progression and derive poor survival benefits from traditional therapies. Currently, effective drugs for treating patients with metastatic OS remain scarce. Here, we found that the cyclic hexadepsipeptide beauvericin (BEA) functioned as a new selective TGFBR2 inhibitor with potent antiproliferative and antimetastatic activities against OS cells. Functionally, BEA inhibited TGF-β signaling-mediated proliferation, invasiveness, mesenchymal phenotype, and extracellular matrix remodeling of OS cells, and suppressed tumor growth and reduced pulmonary metastasis in vivo. Mechanistic investigation revealed that BEA selectively and directly bound to Asn 332 of TGFBR2 and inhibited its kinase activity, thereby suppressing the aggressive progression of OS cells. Together, our study identifies an innovative and natural selective TGFBR2 inhibitor with effective antineoplastic activity against metastatic OS and demonstrates that targeting TGFBR2 could be a potential therapeutic strategy for metastatic OS.

Unprecedented Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Polyketides from Cultures of Diaporthe africana sp. nov

Four unprecedented polyketides named isoprenylisobenzofuran B (2), isoprenylisobenzofuran C₁/C₂ (3), diaporisoindole F₁/F₂ (4), and isochromophilonol A₁/A₂ (7) were isolated from ethyl acetate extracts of the newly described endophytic fungus Diaporthe africana. Additionally, the previously reported cyclic depsipeptide eucalactam B (1) was also identified, along with the known compounds diaporisoindole A/B (5), tenellone B (6) and beauvericin (8). The taxonomic identification of the fungus was accomplished using a polyphasic approach combining multi-gene phylogenetic analysis and microscopic morphological characters. The structures 1-8 were determined by a detailed analysis of their spectral data, namely high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESIMS), 1D/2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, as well as electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. In addition, chemical methods such as Marfey's analysis were also employed to determine the stereochemistry in compound 1. All the compounds obtained were evaluated for antimicrobial and in vitro cytotoxic properties. Compounds 3-8 were active against certain fungi and Gram-positive bacteria with MIC values of 8.3 to 66.6 µg/mL. In addition, 3-5 displayed cytotoxic effects (22.0 ≤ IC₅₀ ≤ 59.2 µM) against KB3.1 and L929 cell lines, whereas compounds 6-8 inhibited the growth of seven mammalian cancer cell lines with IC₅₀ ranging from 17.7 to 49.5 µM (6), 0.9 to 12.9 µM (7) and 1.9 to 4.3 µM (8).

Mycotoxins and consumers' awareness: Recent progress and future challenges

While food shortages have become an important challenge, providing safe food resources is a point of interest on a global scale. Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites that are formed through various fungi species. They are mainly spread through diets such as food or beverages. About one quarter of the world's food is spoiled with mycotoxins. As this problem is not resolved, it represents a significant threat to global food security. Besides the current concerns regarding the contamination of food items by these metabolites, the lack of knowledge by consumers and their possible growth and toxin production attracted considerable attention. While globalization provides a favorite condition for some countries, food security still is challenging for most countries. There are various approaches to reducing the mycotoxigenic fungi growth and formation of mycotoxins in food, include as physical, chemical, and biological processes. The current article will focus on collecting data regarding consumers' awareness of mycotoxins. Furthermore, a critical overview and comparison among different preventative approaches to reduce risk by consumers will be discussed. Finally, the current effect of mycotoxins on global trade, besides future challenges faced by mycotoxin contamination on food security, will be discussed briefly.

Survey of the enniatins and beauvericin in raw and UHT cow's milk in Poland

Introduction

The enniatins A, A1, B and B1 (ENNs) and beauvericin (BEA) are structurally related compounds produced by Fusarium species. They occur as contaminants in cereals, such as wheat, barley and maize. They are called "emerging mycotoxins", because they have been reported in feed and food and their toxic effects are not fully known. Data on their levels in food (especially in milk) are limited. The study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of ENNs and BEA in milk.

Material and Methods

A total of 103 bovine milk samples (76 of raw milk and 27 of UHT milk) were collected from different parts of Poland and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Among the 76 raw milk samples, 31 (41%) and 15 (20%) samples were contaminated with ENN B and with BEA, respectively. No contamination with other enniatins was found. The highest concentration of BEA was found in raw milk and was 6.17 μg kg-1. Out of the 27 samples of UHT milk, 16 (59%) were contaminated with ENN B at concentrations ranging from 0.157 μg kg-1 to 0.587 μg kg-1 (limit of quantification (LOQ) 0.098 μg kg-1). Beauvericin was detected in 9 UHT milk samples (33%) at concentrations ranging from 0.101 μg kg-1 to 1.934 μg kg-1 (LOQ 0.095 μg kg-1).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated constant but low milk contamination in Poland with ENN B and BEA. The analysis of milk samples revealed that the emerging mycotoxins ENN B and BEA were measured in trace amounts. It does not suggest any immediate risk to milk consumers; however, it is unknown whether long-term exposure to low levels of toxins may be harmful.

Metabotyping of Andean pseudocereals and characterization of emerging mycotoxins

Pseudocereals are best known for three crops derived from the Andes: quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), canihua (C. pallidicaule), and kiwicha (Amaranthus caudatus). Their grains are recognized for their nutritional benefits; however, there is a higher level of polyphenism. Meanwhile, the chemical food safety of pseudocereals remains poorly documented. Here, we applied untargeted and targeted metabolomics approaches by LC-MS to achieve both: i) a comprehensive chemical mapping of pseudocereal samples collected in the Andes; and ii) a quantification of their contents in emerging mycotoxins. An inventory of the fungal community was also realized to better know the fungi present in these grains. Metabotyping permitted to add new insights into the chemotaxonomy of pseudocereals, confirming the previously established phylotranscriptomic clades. Sixteen samples from Peru (out of 27) and one from France (out of one) were contaminated with Beauvericin, an emerging mycotoxin. Several mycotoxigenic fungi were detected, including Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp., and Alternaria sp.

Fusarium-Derived Secondary Metabolites with Antimicrobial Effects

Fungal microbes are important in the creation of new drugs, given their unique genetic and metabolic diversity. As one of the most commonly found fungi in nature, Fusarium spp. has been well regarded as a prolific source of secondary metabolites (SMs) with diverse chemical structures and a broad spectrum of biological properties. However, little information is available concerning their derived SMs with antimicrobial effects. By extensive literature search and data analysis, as many as 185 antimicrobial natural products as SMs had been discovered from Fusarium strains by the end of 2022. This review first provides a comprehensive analysis of these substances in terms of various antimicrobial effects, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic. Future prospects for the efficient discovery of new bioactive SMs from Fusarium strains are also proposed.

Impact of Enniatin B and Beauvericin on Lysosomal Cathepsin B Secretion and Apoptosis Induction

Enniatin B (ENN B) and Beauvericin (BEA) are cyclohexadepsipeptides that can be isolated from Fusarium and Beauveria bassiana, respectively. Both compounds are cytotoxic and ionophoric. In the present study, the mechanism of cell death induced by these compounds was investigated. Epidermal carcinoma-derived cell line KB-3-1 cells were treated with different concentrations of these compounds. The extracellular secretion of cathepsin B increased in a concentration-dependent manner, and the lysosomal staining by lysotracker red was reduced upon the treatment with any of the compounds. However, the extracellular secretion of cathepsin L and cathepsin D were not affected. Inhibition of cathepsin B with specific inhibitor CA074 significantly reduced the cytotoxic effect of both compounds, while inhibition of cathepsin D or cathepsin L did not influence the cytotoxic activities of both compounds. In vitro labelling of lysosomal cysteine cathepsins with Ethyl (2S, 3S)-epoxysuccinate-Leu-Tyr-Acp-Lys (Biotin)-NH2 (DCG04) was not affected in case of cathepsin L upon the treatment with both compounds, while it was significantly reduced in case of cathepsin B. In conclusion, ENN B and BEA increase lysosomal Ph, which inhibits delivery of cathepsin B from Golgi to lysosomes, thereby inducing cathepsin B release in cytosol, which activates caspases and hence the apoptotic pathway.

Depsipeptides Targeting Tumor Cells: Milestones from In Vitro to Clinical Trials

Cancer is currently considered one of the most threatening diseases worldwide. Diet could be one of the factors that can be enhanced to comprehensively address a cancer patient's condition. Unfortunately, most molecules capable of targeting cancer cells are found in uncommon food sources. Among them, depsipeptides have emerged as one of the most reliable choices for cancer treatment. These cyclic amino acid oligomers, with one or more subunits replaced by a hydroxylated carboxylic acid resulting in one lactone bond in a core ring, have broadly proven their cancer-targeting efficacy, some even reaching clinical trials and being commercialized as "anticancer" drugs. This review aimed to describe these depsipeptides, their reported amino acid sequences, determined structure, and the specific mechanism by which they target tumor cells including apoptosis, oncosis, and elastase inhibition, among others. Furthermore, we have delved into state-of-the-art in vivo and clinical trials, current methods for purification and synthesis, and the recognized disadvantages of these molecules. The information collated in this review can help researchers decide whether these molecules should be incorporated into functional foods in the near future.

In vitro anti-cancer effects of beauvericin through inhibition of actin polymerization and Src phosphorylation

BACKGROUND

Beauvericin (BEA) is a depsipeptide with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities isolated from Beauveria bassiana. However, little is understood on its anti-cancer activities and mechanism.

PURPOSE

Aim of this study was to explore the anti-cancer activity of BEA and its underlying molecular mechanism to provide a theoretical basis for its role as a candidate natural drug in cancer diseases.

STUDY DESIGN

Various cancer cells such as C6 glioma, U251, MDA-MB-231, HeLa, HCT-15, LoVo cells, and HEK293T cells were used to the anti-cancer activity of BEA.

METHODS

To evaluate the anti-cancer activity of BEA, cell viability test (MTT assay), morphological change check, confocal microscopy, actin polymerization assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting analysis. To check the target enzyme of BEA, overexpression and site-directed mutagenesis was employed.

RESULTS

BEA inhibited the viability of cancer cells including C6, MDA-MB-231, HeLa, HCT-15, LoVo, and U251 cells. Treatment of BEA in C6 glioma cells induced cell membrane blebbing and apoptosis. Caspase-3 and -9 were dose-dependently activated by BEA, and the mRNA expression of Bcl-2 was inhibited by BEA. According to confocal microscopy, actin polymerization and actin-actin interaction were interrupted by BEA in C6 cells. BEA regulated the apoptosis of C6 cells depending on the protein phosphorylation of Src and Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3). Moreover, c-terminal amino acids in Src directly interacted with BEA in C6 cells, and the binding of Src and BEA suppressed the kinase activity of Src.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that BEA may be a critical candidate or substitute drug for cancer treatment via suppression of the Src/STAT3 pathway.

Na+ Selective Binding by Beauvericin and Its Mechanism Studied by Mass-Coupled Cold Ion Trap Infrared Spectroscopy

Beauvericin (Bv) is a cyclic hexadepsipeptide mycotoxin that selectively transports ions across cell membranes. Characterization of its intrinsic ion affinity has been complicated by different previous results in condensed phases and biological membranes. We report the marked specificity between alkali metal ions by Bv using experimental and computational methods. Mass spectrometry shows Bv readily binds all five alkali ions; however, the complex with Na⁺ is the most abundant species, indicating a strong binding preference. Gas phase infrared spectroscopy and theoretical calculations show that Li⁺, K⁺, Rb⁺, and Cs⁺ are coordinated by three amide carbonyl oxygens on the N-methylamino-l-phenylalanyl face. Selectivity for Na⁺ is achieved as Bv sequesters Na⁺ in the center of its cavity formed by three amide carbonyl and three ester carbonyl groups, a configuration unique among alkali metal ions. This finding provides insight into the correlation between selectivity and conformation of Bv, essential for development of this mycotoxin.

Traditional and emerging Fusarium mycotoxins disrupt homeostasis of bovine mammary cells by altering cell permeability and innate immune function

High incidence of traditional and emerging Fusarium mycotoxins in cereal grains and silages can be a potential threat to feed safety and ruminants. Inadequate biodegradation of Fusarium mycotoxins by rumen microflora following ingestion of mycotoxin-contaminated feeds can lead to their circulatory transport to target tissues such as mammary gland. The bovine udder plays a pivotal role in maintaining milk yield and composition, thus, human health. However, toxic effects of Fusarium mycotoxins on bovine mammary gland are rarely studied. In this study, the bovine mammary epithelial cell line was used as an in-vitro model of bovine mammary epithelium to investigate effects of deoxynivalenol (DON), enniatin B (ENB) and beauvericin (BEA) on bovine mammary gland homeostasis. Results indicated that exposure to DON, ENB and BEA for 48 h significantly decreased cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.001). Exposure to DON at 0.39 μmol/L and BEA at 2.5 μmol/L for 48 h also decreased paracellular flux of FITC-40 kDa dextran (P < 0.05), whereas none of the mycotoxins affected transepithelial electrical resistance after 48 h exposure. The qPCR was performed for assessment of expression of gene coding tight junction (TJ) proteins, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and cytokines after 4, 24 and 48 h of exposure. DON, ENB and BEA significantly upregulated the TJ protein zonula occludens-1, whereas markedly downregulated claudin 3 (P < 0.05). Exposure to DON at 1.35 μmol/L for 4 h significantly increased expression of occludin (P < 0.01). DON, ENB and BEA significant downregulated TLR4 (P < 0.05). In contrast, ENB markedly increased expression of cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) (P < 0.001), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-a) (P < 0.05) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) (P < 0.01). BEA significantly upregulated IL- 6 (P < 0.001) and TGF-β (P = 0.01), but downregulated TNF-α (P < 0.001). These results suggest that DON, ENB and BEA can disrupt mammary gland homeostasis by inducing cell death as well as altering its paracellular permeability and expression of genes involved in innate immune function.

In silico comparative genomic analysis unravels a new candidate protein arsenal specifically associated with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis pathogenesis

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp albedinis (Foa) is a devastating fungus of date palms. To unravel the genetic characteristics associated with its pathogenesis, the two available genomes of Foa 133 and Foa 9 were compared with 49 genomes of 29 other pathogenic formae speciales belonging to Fusarium oxysporum species complex (FOSC). Foa 133 and Foa 9 have genomes of 56.23 Mb and 65.56 Mb with 17460 and 19514 putative coding genes. Of these genes, 30% lack functional annotation with no similarity to characterized proteins. The remaining genes were involved in pathways essential to the fungi's life and their adaptation. Foa secretome analysis revealed that both Foa strains possess an expanded number of secreted effectors (3003 in Foa 133 and 2418 in Foa 9). Those include effectors encoded by Foa unique genes that are involved in Foa penetration (Egh16-like family), host defense mechanisms suppression (lysM family) and pathogen protection (cysteine-rich protein family). The accessory protein SIX6, which induces plant cell death, was also predicted in Foa. Further analysis of secreted CAZymes revealed an arsenal of enzymes involved in plant cell wall degradation. This arsenal includes an exclusively Foa-specific CAZyme (GH5-7). Transcription factors and membrane transporters (MFS) involved in fungicide efflux have been predicted in Foa, in addition to a variety of secondary metabolites. These comprise mycotoxins as well as chrysogin, the latter provides Foa with resistance against adverse environmental conditions. Our results revealed new Foa proteins that could be targeted in future research in order to manage Bayoud disease.

Study on In Vitro Metabolism and In Vivo Pharmacokinetics of Beauvericin

Beauvericin (BEA) is a well-known mycotoxin produced by many fungi, including Beaveria bassiana. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro distribution and metabolism characteristics as well as the in vivo pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of BEA. The in vitro metabolism studies of BEA were performed using rat, dog, mouse, monkey and human liver microsomes, cryopreserved hepatocytes and plasma under conditions of linear kinetics to estimate the respective elimination rates. Additionally, LC-UV-MSn (n = 1~2) was used to identify metabolites in human, rat, mouse, dog and monkey liver microsomes. Furthermore, cytochrome P450 (CYP) reaction phenotyping was carried out. Finally, the absolute bioavailability of BEA was evaluated by intravenous and oral administration in rats. BEA was metabolically stable in the liver microsomes and hepatocytes of humans and rats; however, it was a strong inhibitor of midazolam 1′-hydroxylase (CYP3A4) and mephenytoin 4′-hydroxylase (CYP2C19) activities in human liver microsomes. The protein binding fraction values of BEA were >90% and the half-life (T1/2) values of BEA were approximately 5 h in the plasma of the five species. The absolute bioavailability was calculated to be 29.5%. Altogether, these data indicate that BEA has great potential for further development as a drug candidate. Metabolic studies of different species can provide important reference values for further safety evaluation.

Using genomics to understand the mechanisms of virulence and drug resistance in fungal pathogens

Fungal pathogens pose an increasingly worrying threat to human health, food security and ecosystem diversity. To tackle fungal infections and improve current diagnostic and therapeutic tools it is necessary to understand virulence and antifungal drug resistance mechanisms in diverse species. Recent advances in genomics approaches have provided a suitable framework to understand these phenotypes, which ultimately depend on genetically encoded determinants. In this work, we review how the study of genome sequences has been key to ascertain the bases of virulence and drug resistance traits. We focus on the contribution of comparative genomics, population genomics and directed evolution studies. In addition, we discuss how different types of genomic mutations (small or structural variants) contribute to intraspecific differences in virulence or drug resistance. Finally, we review current challenges in the field and anticipate future directions to solve them. In summary, this work provides a short overview of how genomics can be used to understand virulence and drug resistance in fungal pathogens.

Phylogenetic Diversity and Mycotoxin Potential of Emergent Phytopathogens Within the Fusarium tricinctum Species Complex

Recent studies on multiple continents indicate members of the Fusarium tricinctum species complex (FTSC) are emerging as prevalent pathogens of small-grain cereals, pulses, and other economically important crops. These understudied fusaria produce structurally diverse mycotoxins, among which enniatins (ENNs) and moniliformin (MON) are the most frequent and of greatest concern to food and feed safety. Herein a large survey of fusaria in the Fusarium Research Center and Agricultural Research Service culture collections was undertaken to assess species diversity and mycotoxin potential within the FTSC. A 151-strain collection originating from diverse hosts and substrates from different agroclimatic regions throughout the world was selected from 460 FTSC strains to represent the breadth of FTSC phylogenetic diversity. Evolutionary relationships inferred from a five-locus dataset, using maximum likelihood and parsimony, resolved the 151 strains as 24 phylogenetically distinct species, including nine that are new to science. Of the five genes analyzed, nearly full-length phosphate permease sequences contained the most phylogenetically informative characters, establishing its suitability for species-level phylogenetics within the FTSC. Fifteen of the species produced ENNs, MON, the sphingosine analog 2-amino-14,16-dimethyloctadecan-3-ol (AOD), and the toxic pigment aurofusarin (AUR) on a cracked corn kernel substrate. Interestingly, the five earliest diverging species in the FTSC phylogeny (i.e., F. iranicum, F. flocciferum, F. torulosum, and Fusarium spp. FTSC 8 and 24) failed to produce AOD and MON, but synthesized ENNs and/or AUR. Moreover, our reassessment of nine published phylogenetic studies on the FTSC identified 11 additional novel taxa, suggesting this complex comprises at least 36 species.

Role of Nrf2 Nucleus Translocation in Beauvericin-Induced Cell Damage in Rat Hepatocytes

Beauvericin (BEA), a food-borne mycotoxin metabolite derived from the fungus Beauveria Bassiana, is proven to exhibit high hepatotoxicity. However, the molecular mechanism underlying BEA-induced liver damage is not fully understood. Herein, the effect of Nrf2 nuclear translocation-induced by BEA in hepatocytes was investigated. CCK8 solution was used to determine the appropriate concentrations of BEA (0, 1, 1.5 and 2 μmol/L), and BRL3A cells were then exposed to different concentrations of BEA for 12 h. Our results reveal that BEA exposure is associated with high cytotoxicity, lowered cell viability, damaged cellular morphology, and increased apoptosis rate. BEA could lead to oxidative damage through the overproduction of ROS and unbalanced redox, trigger the activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway and Nrf2 nuclear translocation for transcriptional activation of downstream antioxidative genes. Additionally, BEA treatment upregulated the expression of autophagy-related proteins (LC3, p62, Beclin1, and ATG5) indicating a correlation between Nrf2 activation and autophagy, which warrants further studies. Furthermore, ML385, an Nrf2 inhibitor, partially ameliorated BEA-induced cell injury while CDDO, an Nrf2 activator, aggravated liver damage. The present study emphasizes the role of Nrf2 nuclear translocation in BEA-induced oxidative stress associated with the hepatotoxic nature of BEA.

The Mycotoxin Beauvericin Exhibits Immunostimulatory Effects on Dendritic Cells via Activating the TLR4 Signaling Pathway

Beauvericin (BEA), a mycotoxin of the enniatin family produced by various toxigenic fungi, has been attributed multiple biological activities such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial functions. However, effects of BEA on dendritic cells remain unknown so far. Here, we identified effects of BEA on murine granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-cultured bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and the underlying molecular mechanisms. BEA potently activates BMDCs as signified by elevated IL-12 and CD86 expression. Multiplex immunoassays performed on myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) and toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domain containing adaptor inducing interferon beta (TRIF) single or double deficient BMDCs indicate that BEA induces inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production in a MyD88/TRIF dependent manner. Furthermore, we found that BEA was not able to induce IL-12 or IFNβ production in Toll-like receptor 4 (Tlr4)-deficient BMDCs, whereas induction of these cytokines was not compromised in Tlr3/7/9 deficient BMDCs. This suggests that TLR4 might be the functional target of BEA on BMDCs. Consistently, in luciferase reporter assays BEA stimulation significantly promotes NF-κB activation in mTLR4/CD14/MD2 overexpressing but not control HEK-293 cells. RNA-sequencing analyses further confirmed that BEA induces transcriptional changes associated with the TLR4 signaling pathway. Together, these results identify TLR4 as a cellular BEA sensor and define BEA as a potent activator of BMDCs, implying that this compound can be exploited as a promising candidate structure for vaccine adjuvants or cancer immunotherapies.

Beauvericin (BEA) and enniatin B (ENNB)-induced impairment of mitochondria and lysosomes - Potential sources of intracellular reactive iron triggering ferroptosis in Atlantic salmon primary hepatocytes

Beauvericin (BEA) and enniatin B (ENNB) are emerging mycotoxins frequently detected in plant-based fish feed. With ionophoric properties, they have shown cytotoxic potential in mammalian models. Sensitivity in fish is still largely unknown. Primary hepatocytes isolated from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) were used as a model and exposed to BEA and ENNB (0.05-10 μM) for 48 h. Microscopy, evaluation of cell viability, total ATP, total H₂O₂, total iron content, total Gpx enzyme activity, and RNA sequencing were used to characterize the toxicodynamics of BEA and ENNB. Both mycotoxins became cytotoxic at ≥ 5 μM, causing condensation of the hepatocytes followed by formation of blister-like protrusions on the cell's membrane. RNA sequencing analysis at sub-cytotoxic levels indicated BEA and ENNB exposed hepatocytes to experience increased energy expenditure, elevated oxidative stress, and iron homeostasis disturbances sensitizing the hepatocytes to ferroptosis. The present study provides valuable knowledge disclosing the toxic action of these mycotoxins in Atlantic salmon primary hepatocytes.

In silico evidence of beauvericin antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2

Background

Scientists are still battling severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic so human lives can be saved worldwide. Secondary fungal metabolites are of intense interest due to their broad range of pharmaceutical properties. Beauvericin (BEA) is a secondary metabolite produced by the fungus Beauveria bassiana. Although promising anti-viral activity has previously been reported for BEA, studies investigating its therapeutic potential are limited.

Methods

The objective of this study was to assess the potential usage of BEA as an anti-viral molecule via protein–protein docking approaches using MolSoft.

Results

In-silico results revealed relatively favorable binding energies for BEA to different viral proteins implicated in the vital life stages of this virus. Of particular interest is the capability of BEA to dock to both the main coronavirus protease (Pockets A and B) and spike proteins. These results were validated by molecular dynamic simulation (Gromacs). Several parameters, such as root-mean-square deviation/fluctuation, the radius of gyration, H-bonding, and free binding energy were analyzed. Computational analyses revealed that interaction of BEA with the main protease pockets in addition to the spike glycoprotein remained stable.

Conclusion

Altogether, our results suggest that BEA might be considered as a potential competitive and allosteric agonist inhibitor with therapeutic options for treating COVID-19 pending in vitro and in vivo validation.

Effects of Secondary Metabolites from Pea on Fusarium Growth and Mycotoxin Biosynthesis

Fusarium species present ubiquitously in the environment are capable of infecting a wide range of plant species. They produce several mycotoxins targeted to weaken the host plant. While infecting some resistant plants, the host can alter the expression of toxin-related genes and accumulate no/very low amounts of mycotoxins. The ability of the host plant to modulate the biosynthesis of these toxins is entirely depending on the secondary metabolites produced by the plant, often as a part of systemic acquired resistance (SAR). A major role plays in the family of metabolites called phenyl propanoids, consisting of thousands of natural products, synthesized from the phenylalanine or tyrosine amino acids through a cascade of enzymatic reactions. They are also famous for inhibiting or limiting infection through their antioxidant characteristics. The current study was aimed at identifying the differentially expressed secondary metabolites in resistant (Sokolik) and susceptible (Santana) cultivars of pea (Pisum sativum L.) and understanding their roles in the growth and mycotoxin biosynthesis of two different Fusarium species. Although metabolites such as coumarin, spermidine, p-coumaric acid, isoorientin, and quercetin reduced the growth of the pathogen, a higher level of p-coumaric acid was found to enhance the growth of F. proliferatum strain PEA1. It was also noticeable that the growth of the pathogen did not depend on their ability to produce mycotoxins, as all the metabolites were able to highly inhibit the biosynthesis of fumonisin B₁ and beauvericin.

The regulation of BbLaeA on the production of beauvericin and bassiatin in Beauveria bassiana

Beauvericin and bassiatin are two valuable compounds with various bioactivities biosynthesized by the supposedly same nonribosomal peptide synthetase BbBEAS in entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana. To evaluate the regulatory effect of global regulator LaeA on their production, we constructed BbLaeA gene deletion and overexpression mutants, respectively. Deletion of BbLaeA resulted in a decrease of the beauvericin titer, while overexpression of BbLaeA increased its production by 1-2.26 times. No bassiatin could be detected in ΔBbLaeA and wild type strain of B. bassiana, but 4.26-5.10 µg/mL bassiatin was produced in OE::BbLaeA. Furthermore, additional metabolites with increased production in OE::BbLaeA were isolated and identified as primary metabolites. Among them, 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid showed antibacterial bioactivity against Ralstonia solanacearum. These results indicated that BbLaeA positively regulates the production of beauvericin, bassiatin and various bioactive primary metabolites.

Bioexploration and Phylogenetic Placement of Entomopathogenic Fungi of the Genus Beauveria in Soils of Lebanon Cedar Forests

The cedar forests of Lebanon have been threatened by the outbreak caused by climate change of a web-spinning sawfly, Cephalcia tannourinensis (Hymenoptera: Pamphiliidae), which negatively impacted the survival of one of the oldest tree species on earth. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of naturally soil-inhabiting entomopathogenic fungi for their role in containing the massive outbreak of this insect. We used a combination of fungal bioexploration methods, including insect bait and selective media. Morphological features and multilocus phylogeny-based on Sanger sequencing of the transcripts encoding the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF-α), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RBP2), and the nuclear intergenic region (Bloc) were used for species identification. The occurrence rate of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) varied with location, soil structure, forest structure, and isolation method. From 15 soil samples positive for fungal occurrence, a total of 249 isolates was obtained from all locations using different isolation methods. The phylogenetic analysis confirmed the existence of two novel indigenous species: Beauveria tannourinensis sp. nov. and Beauveria ehdenensis sp. nov. In conclusion, the present survey was successful (1) in optimizing the isolation methods for EPF, (2) investigating the natural occurrence of Beauveria spp. in outbreak areas of C. tannourinensis, and (3) in characterizing the presence of new Beauveria species in Lebanese cedar forest soil.

Species diversity and mycotoxin production by members of the Fusarium tricinctum species complex associated with Fusarium head blight of wheat and barley in Italy

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a global cereal disease caused by a complex of Fusarium species. In Europe, the main species responsible for FHB are F. graminearum, F. culmorum and F. poae. However, members of the F. tricinctum species complex (FTSC) have become increasingly important. FTSC fusaria can synthesize mycotoxins such as moniliformin (MON), enniatins (ENNs) and several other biologically active secondary metabolites that could compromise food quality. In this study, FTSC isolates primarily from Italian durum wheat and barley, together with individual strains from four non-graminaceous hosts, were collected to assess their genetic diversity and determine their potential to produce mycotoxins in vitro on rice cultures. A multilocus DNA sequence dataset (TEF1, RPB1 and RPB2) was constructed for 117 isolates from Italy and 6 from Iran to evaluate FTSC species diversity and their evolutionary relationships. Phylogenetic analyses revealed wide genetic diversity among Italian FTSC isolates. Among previously described FTSC species, F. avenaceum (FTSC 4) was the most common species in Italy (56/117 = 47.9%) while F. tricinctum (FTSC 3), and F. acuminatum (FTSC 2) accounted for 11.1% (13/117) and the 8.5% (10/117), respectively. The second most detected species was a new and unnamed Fusarium sp. (FTSC 12; 32/117 = 19%) resolved as the sister group of F. tricinctum. Collectively, these four phylospecies accounted for 111/117 = 94.9% of the Italian FTSC collection. However, we identified five other FTSC species at low frequencies, including F. iranicum (FTSC 6) and three newly discovered species (Fusarium spp. FTSC 13, 14, 15). Of the 59 FTSC isolates tested for mycotoxin production on rice cultures, 54 and 55 strains, respectively, were able to produce detectable levels of ENNs and MON. In addition, we confirmed that the ability to produce bioactive secondary metabolites such as chlamydosporol, acuminatopyrone, longiborneol, fungerin and butanolide is widespread across the FTSC.

Entomopathogenic Fungi and Bacteria in a Veterinary Perspective

Simple Summary

Several fungal species are well suited to control arthropods, being able to cause epizootic infection among them and most of them infect their host by direct penetration through the arthropod’s tegument. Most of organisms are related to the biological control of crop pests, but, more recently, have been applied to combat some livestock ectoparasites. Among the entomopathogenic bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis, innocuous for humans, animals, and plants and isolated from different environments, showed the most relevant activity against arthropods. Its entomopathogenic property is related to the production of highly biodegradable proteins. Entomopathogenic fungi and bacteria are usually employed against agricultural pests, and some studies have focused on their use to control animal arthropods. However, risks of infections in animals and humans are possible; thus, further studies about their activity are necessary.

Abstract

The present study aimed to review the papers dealing with the biological activity of fungi and bacteria against some mites and ticks of veterinary interest. In particular, the attention was turned to the research regarding acarid species, Dermanyssus gallinae and Psoroptes sp., which are the cause of severe threat in farm animals and, regarding ticks, also pets. Their impact on animal and human health has been stressed, examining the weaknesses and strengths of conventional treatments. Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae are the most widely employed agents. Their activities have been reviewed, considering the feasibility of an in-field application and the effectiveness of the administration alone or combined with conventional and alternative drugs is reported.

Molecular insight into the endophytic growth of Beauveria bassiana within Phaseolus vulgaris in the presence or absence of Tetranychus urticae

Entomopathogenic fungi are an important factor in the natural regulation of arthropod populations. Moreover, some can exist as an endophyte in many plant species and establish a mutualistic relationship. In this study, we have investigated the endophytic growth of Beauveria bassiana within different tissues of Phaseolus vulgaris in the presence and absence of Tetranuychus urticae. After the colonization of the B. bassiana within the internal tissues of P. vulgaris. The susceptibility of T. urticae appeared to depend on the life stage where high, moderate, and low mortalities were recorded among adults, nymphs, and eggs, respectively. In addition, this study provided, for the first time, molecular insight into the endophytic growth of B. bassiana by analyzing the expression of several genes involved in the development of the entomopathogenic fungi at 0-, 2-, and 7- days post-inoculation. B. bassiana displayed preferential tissue colonization within P. vulgaris that can be put into the following order based on the detection rate: leaf > stem > root. After analyzing the development-implicated genes (degrading enzymes, sugar transporter, hydrophobins, cell wall synthesis, secondary metabolites, stress management), the most remarkable finding is the detection of behavioral change between parasitic and endophytic Beauveria during post-penetration events. This study elucidates the tri-trophic interaction between fungus-plant-herbivore.

Beauvericin and Enniatins: In Vitro Intestinal Effects

Food and feed contamination by emerging mycotoxins beauvericin and enniatins is a worldwide health problem and a matter of great concern nowadays, and data on their toxicological behavior are still scarce. As ingestion is the major route of exposure to mycotoxins in food and feed, the gastrointestinal tract represents the first barrier encountered by these natural contaminants and the first structure that could be affected by their potential detrimental effects. In order to perform a complete and reliable toxicological evaluation, this fundamental site cannot be disregarded. Several in vitro intestinal models able to recreate the different traits of the intestinal environment have been applied to investigate the various aspects related to the intestinal toxicity of emerging mycotoxins. This review aims to depict an overall and comprehensive representation of the in vitro intestinal effects of beauvericin and enniatins in humans from a species-specific perspective. Moreover, information on the occurrence in food and feed and notions on the regulatory aspects will be provided.

Antiproliferative and Antimigration Activities of Beauvericin Isolated from Isaria sp. on Pancreatic Cancer Cells

This study describes the antiproliferative and antimigration effects of beauvericin from a culture broth of Isaria sp. in human pancreatic cancer cells (PANC-1). Activity-guided fractionation of the EtOAc extract of cultured broth of Isaria sp. RD055140 afforded beauvericin (1), a new isariotin derivative, 7-O-methylisariotin C (2), together with the known isariotin analogs, TK-57-164A (3) and B (4). As a result of the measurement of the cell viability, 1 inhibited cell growth (IC50 = 4.8 µM) of PANC-1 cells. Furthermore, 1 was found to inhibit the migration activity of PANC-1 cells by upregulating the expression of the E-cadherin gene and reducing N-cadherin and Snail genes in a dose-dependent manner (0.1-1 µM). These activities of 1 had lower concentrations than the cytotoxic activity. These findings suggest that 1 can be used as an anticancer agent against human pancreatic carcinoma.

Beauvericin alters the expression of genes coding for key proteins of the mitochondrial chain in ovine cumulus-oocyte complexes

Beauvericin (BEA) is a member of the enniatin family of mycotoxins which has received increasing interest because of frequent occurrence in food and feed. By its ionophoric properties, BEA is able to alter membrane ion permeability uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation. It was also shown to alter oocyte mitochondrial function. In this study, the effects of BEA at 0.5, 1, ,3 and 5 μmol/L on expression of genes coding for key proteins of the mitochondrial chain in ovine oocytes and cumulus cells were evaluated at different time points of in vitro maturation (IVM), germinal vesicle (GV; t = 0), metaphase I (MI; t = 7 h), and metaphase II (MII; t = 24 h). The expression of nuclear (TFAM, NDUFA12, UQCRH, COX4, ATP5O) and mitochondrial (ND1, COX1, COX2, ATP6, ATP8) genes coding for proteins of Complexes I, III, IV, and V was analyzed by qRT-PCR. After BEA exposure, perturbed expression of all genes was observed in cumulus cells and in oocytes at the MI stage (7 h IVM). Expression of ND1, UQCRH, COX4 and ATP5O was downregulated in cumulus cells and upregulated in oocytes starting from 0.5 μmol/L BEA. Expression of TFAM, NDUFA12, COX1, COX2, ATP6, and ATP8 was upregulated starting from 1 μmol/L in cumulus cells and from 3 μmol/L in oocytes. Cumulus cells and oocytes displayed different gene expression patterns upon BEA exposure. The downregulation in cumulus cells of four genes coding for proteins of mitochondrial complexes could represent a major toxic event induced by BEA on the cumulus-oocyte complex which may result in mitochondrial functional alteration.

Connecting the conformational behavior of cyclic octadepsipeptides with their ionophoric property and membrane permeability

Cyclic octadepsipeptides such as PF1022A and its synthetic derivative emodepside exhibit anthelmintic activity with the latter sold as a commercial drug treatment against gastrointestinal nematodes for animal health use. The structure-permeability relationship of these cyclic depsipeptides that could ultimately provide insights into the compound bioavailability is not yet well understood. The fully N-methylated amide backbone and apolar sidechain residues do not allow for the formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, normally observed in the membrane-permeable conformations of cyclic peptides. Hence, any understanding gained on these depsipeptides would serve as a prototype for future design strategies. In previous nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies, two macrocyclic core conformers of emodepside were detected, one with all backbone amides in trans-configuration (hereon referred as the symmetric conformer) and the other with one amide in cis-configuration (hereon referred as the asymmetric conformer). In addition, these depsipeptides were also reported to be ionophores with a preference of potassium over sodium. In this study, we relate the conformational behavior of PF1022A, emodepside, and closely related analogs with their ionophoric characteristic probed using NMR and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and finally evaluated their passive membrane permeability using PAMPA. We find that the equilibrium between the two core conformers shifts more towards the symmetric conformer upon addition of monovalent cations with selectivity for potassium over sodium. Both the NMR experiments and the theoretical Markov state models based on extensive MD simulations indicate a more rigid backbone for the asymmetric conformation, whereas the symmetric conformation shows greater flexibility. The experimental results further advocate for the symmetric conformation binding the cation. The PAMPA results suggest that the investigated depsipeptides are retained in the membrane, which may be advantageous for the likely target, a membrane-bound potassium channel.