Pseudomonas fluorescens Showing Antifungal Activity against Macrophomina phaseolina, a Severe Pathogenic Fungus of Soybean, Produces Phenazine as the Main Active Metabolite

Antibacterial mechanism of metabolites of Lactobacillus plantarum against Pseudomonas lundensis and their application in dry-aged beef preservation

In this study, the antibacterial mechanism of metabolites of Lactobacillus plantarum SCB2505 (MLp SCB2505) against Pseudomonas lundensis (P. lundensis) SCB2605 was investigated, along with evaluation of their preservative effects on dry-aged beef. The results demonstrated the effective inhibition of MLp SCB2505 on the growth and biofilm synthesis of P. lundensis. The treatment with MLp SCB2505 led to the compromised membrane integrity, as evidenced by reduced intracellular ATP content, increased extracellular AKPase, K+ and protein content, as well as disrupted cell morphology. Further metabolomics analysis revealed that MLp SCB2505 interfered amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, cofactor and vitamin metabolism, lipid metabolism and respiratory chain in P. lundensis, ultimately leading to the interrupted life activities and even death of the bacteria. Besides, MLp SCB2505 could effectively inhibit the growth of Pseudomonas in dry-aged beef and delay spoilage. These findings propose the potential application of MLp SCB2505 as an antibacterial agent in meat products.

Recent Advances in Phenazine Natural Products: Biosynthesis and Metabolic Engineering

Phenazine natural products are a class of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds produced by microorganisms. The tricyclic ring molecules show various chemical structures and extensive pharmacological activities, such as antimicrobial, anticancer, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, and insecticidal activities, with low toxicity to the environment. Since phenazine-1-carboxylic acid has been developed as a registered biopesticide, the application of phenazine natural products will be promising in the field of agriculture pathogenic fungi control based on broad-spectrum antifungal activity, minimal toxicity to the environment, and improvement of crop production. Currently, there are still plenty of intriguing hidden biosynthetic pathways of phenazine natural products to be discovered, and the titer of naturally occurring phenazine natural products is insufficient for agricultural applications. In this review, we spotlight the progress regarding biosynthesis and metabolic engineering research of phenazine natural products in the past decade. The review provides useful insights concerning phenazine natural products production and more clues on new phenazine derivatives biosynthesis.

Phenazines are involved in the antagonism of a novel subspecies of Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain S1Bt23 against Pythium ultimum

Long-term use of chemical fungicides to control plant diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes has led to pathogen resistance and negative impacts on public health and environment. There is a global search for eco-friendly methods and antagonistic bacteria are emerging as alternatives. We isolated a potent antagonistic bacterial strain (S1Bt23) from woodland soil in Québec, Canada. Taxonomic characterization by 16S rRNA, multi-locus sequence analysis, pairwise whole-genome comparisons, phylogenomics and phenotypic data identified strain S1Bt23 as a novel subspecies within Pseudomonas chlororaphis. In dual culture studies, strain S1Bt23 exhibited potent mycelial growth inhibition (60.2-66.7%) against Pythium ultimum. Furthermore, strain S1Bt23 was able to significantly bioprotect potato tuber slices from the development of necrosis inducible by P. ultimum. Annotations of the whole genome sequence of S1Bt23 revealed the presence of an arsenal of secondary metabolites including the complete phenazine biosynthetic cluster (phzABCDEFG). Thin-layer (TLC) and high-performance liquid (HPLC) chromatographic analyses of S1Bt23 extracts confirmed the production of phenazines, potent antifungal compounds. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated deletion of phzB (S1Bt23ΔphzB) or phzF (S1Bt23ΔphzF) gene abrogated phenazine production based on TLC and HPLC analyses. Also, S1Bt23ΔphzB and S1Bt23ΔphzF mutants lost antagonistic activity and bioprotection ability of potato tubers against P. ultimum. This demonstrated that phenazines are involved in the antagonistic activity of S1Bt23 against P. ultimum. Finally, based on genotypic and phenotypic data, we taxonomically conclude that S1Bt23 represents a novel subspecies for which the name Pseudomonas chlororaphis subsp. phenazini is proposed.

Evaluation of Resistance Induction Promoted by Bioactive Compounds of Pseudomonas aeruginosa LV Strain against Asian Soybean Rust

Pseudomonas are known as higher producers of secondary metabolites with antimicrobial properties and plant growth promoters, including resistance induction. These mechanisms should be an alternative to pesticide use in crop production. Phakopsora pachyrhizi causes Asian soybean rust, representing a high loss of yield around the world. The objective of this paper was to evaluate the application of secondary metabolites produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa LV strain from the semi-purified fraction F4A in soybean plants to induce plant resistance against P. pachyrhizi in field conditions. The experimental design was performed in randomized blocks with three replicates using two F4A doses (1 and 10 μg mL-1) combined or not with fungicides (Unizeb Gold® or Sphere Max®). The control treatment, with Uni + Sph, saponins, flavonoids, and sphingolipids, showed higher intensities in the plants. In contrast, plants treated with the F4A fraction mainly exhibited fatty acid derivatives and some non-identified compounds with nitrogen. Plants treated with Sphere Max®, with or without F4A10, showed higher intensities of glycosylated flavonoids, such as kaempferol, luteolin, narigenin, and apigenin. Plants treated with F4A showed higher intensities of genistein and fatty acid derivatives. These increases in flavonoid compound biosynthesis and antioxidant properties probably contribute to the protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Fine-scale characterization of the soybean rhizosphere microbiome via synthetic long reads and avidity sequencing

BACKGROUND

The rhizosphere microbiome displays structural and functional dynamism driven by plant, microbial, and environmental factors. While such plasticity is a well-evidenced determinant of host health, individual and community-level microbial activity within the rhizosphere remain poorly understood, due in part to the insufficient taxonomic resolution achieved through traditional marker gene amplicon sequencing. This limitation necessitates more advanced approaches (e.g., long-read sequencing) to derive ecological inferences with practical application. To this end, the present study coupled synthetic long-read technology with avidity sequencing to investigate eukaryotic and prokaryotic microbiome dynamics within the soybean (Glycine max) rhizosphere under field conditions.

RESULTS

Synthetic long-read sequencing permitted de novo reconstruction of the entire 18S-ITS1-ITS2 region of the eukaryotic rRNA operon as well as all nine hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA gene. All full-length, mapped eukaryotic amplicon sequence variants displayed genus-level classification, and 44.77% achieved species-level classification. The resultant eukaryotic microbiome encompassed five kingdoms (19 genera) of protists in addition to fungi - a depth unattainable with conventional short-read methods. In the prokaryotic fraction, every full-length, mapped amplicon sequence variant was resolved at the species level, and 23.13% at the strain level. Thirteen species of Bradyrhizobium were thereby distinguished in the prokaryotic microbiome, with strain-level identification of the two Bradyrhizobium species most reported to nodulate soybean. Moreover, the applied methodology delineated structural and compositional dynamism in response to experimental parameters (i.e., growth stage, cultivar, and biostimulant application), unveiled a saprotroph-rich core microbiome, provided empirical evidence for host selection of mutualistic taxa, and identified key microbial co-occurrence network members likely associated with edaphic and agronomic properties.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to combine synthetic long-read technology and avidity sequencing to profile both eukaryotic and prokaryotic fractions of a plant-associated microbiome. Findings herein provide an unparalleled taxonomic resolution of the soybean rhizosphere microbiota and represent significant biological and technological advancements in crop microbiome research.

Novel Pseudomonas Species Prevent the Growth of the Phytopathogenic Fungus Aspergillus flavus

In response to the escalating demand for sustainable agricultural methodologies, the utilization of microbial volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as antagonists against phytopathogens has emerged as a viable eco-friendly alternative. Microbial volatiles exhibit rapid diffusion rates, facilitating prompt chemical interactions. Moreover, microorganisms possess the capacity to emit volatiles constitutively, as well as in response to biological interactions and environmental stimuli. In addition to volatile compounds, these bacteria demonstrate the ability to produce soluble metabolites with antifungal properties, such as APE Vf, pyoverdin, and fragin. In this study, we identified two Pseudomonas strains (BJa3 and MCal1) capable of inhibiting the in vitro mycelial growth of the phytopathogenic fungus Aspergillus flavus, which serves as the causal agent of diseases in sugarcane and maize. Utilizing GC/MS analysis, we detected 47 distinct VOCs which were produced by these bacterial strains. Notably, certain volatile compounds, including 1-heptoxydecane and tridecan-2-one, emerged as primary candidates for inhibiting fungal growth. These compounds belong to essential chemical classes previously documented for their antifungal activity, while others represent novel molecules. Furthermore, examination via confocal microscopy unveiled significant morphological alterations, particularly in the cell wall, of mycelia exposed to VOCs emitted by both Pseudomonas species. These findings underscore the potential of the identified BJa3 and MCal1 Pseudomonas strains as promising agents for fungal biocontrol in agricultural crops.

Nano-Agrochemicals as Substitutes for Pesticides: Prospects and Risks

This review delves into the mesmerizing technology of nano-agrochemicals, specifically pesticides and herbicides, and their potential to aid in the achievement of UN SDG 17, which aims to reduce hunger and poverty globally. The global market for conventional pesticides and herbicides is expected to reach USD 82.9 billion by 2027, growing 2.7% annually, with North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region being the biggest markets. However, the extensive use of chemical pesticides has proven adverse effects on human health as well as the ecosystem. Therefore, the efficacy, mechanisms, and environmental impacts of conventional pesticides require sustainable alternatives for effective pest management. Undoubtedly, nano-agrochemicals have the potential to completely transform agriculture by increasing crop yields with reduced environmental contamination. The present review discusses the effectiveness and environmental impact of nanopesticides as promising strategies for sustainable agriculture. It provides a concise overview of green nano-agrochemical synthesis and agricultural applications, and the efficacy of nano-agrochemicals against pests including insects and weeds. Nano-agrochemical pesticides are investigated due to their unique size and exceptional performance advantages over conventional ones. Here, we have focused on the environmental risks and current state of nano-agrochemicals, emphasizing the need for further investigations. The review also draws the attention of agriculturists and stakeholders to the current trends of nanomaterial use in agriculture especially for reducing plant diseases and pests. A discussion of the pros and cons of nano-agrochemicals is paramount for their application in sustainable agriculture.

Alternaria alternata Isolated from Infected Pears (Pyrus communis) in Italy Produces Non-Host Toxins and Hydrolytic Enzymes as Infection Mechanisms and Exhibits Competitive Exclusion against Botrytis cinerea in Co-Infected Host Fruits

Alternaria alternata is one of the most devastating phytopathogenic fungi. This microorganism causes black spots in many fruits and vegetables worldwide, generating significant post-harvest losses. In this study, an A. alternata strain, isolated from infected pears (Pyrus communis) harvested in Italy, was characterized by focusing on its pathogenicity mechanisms and competitive exclusion in the presence of another pathogen, Botrytis cinerea. In in vitro assays, the fungus produces strong enzymatic activities such as amylase, xylanase, and cellulase, potentially involved during the infection. Moreover, it secretes four different toxins purified and identified as altertoxin I, alteichin, alternariol, and alternariol 4-methyl ether. Only alteichin generated necrotic lesions on host-variety pears, while all the compounds showed moderate to slight necrotic activity on non-host pears and other non-host fruit (lemon, Citrus limon), indicating they are non-host toxins. Interestingly, A. alternata has shown competitive exclusion to the competitor fungus Botrytis cinerea when co-inoculated in host and non-host pear fruits, inhibiting its growth by 70 and 65%, respectively, a result not observed in a preliminary characterization in a dual culture assay. Alteichin and alternariol 4-methyl ether tested against B. cinerea had the best inhibition activity, suggesting that the synergism of these toxins and enzymatic activities of A. alternata are probably involved in the competitive exclusion dynamics in host and non-host pear fruits.

Recent Developments in the Biological Activities, Bioproduction, and Applications of Pseudomonas spp. Phenazines

Phenazines are a large group of heterocyclic nitrogen-containing compounds with demonstrated insecticidal, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and anticancer activities. These natural compounds are synthesized by several microorganisms originating from diverse habitats, including marine and terrestrial sources. The most well-studied producers belong to the Pseudomonas genus, which has been extensively investigated over the years for its ability to synthesize phenazines. This review is focused on the research performed on pseudomonads' phenazines in recent years. Their biosynthetic pathways, mechanism of regulation, production processes, bioactivities, and applications are revised in this manuscript.

Sources of Antifungal Drugs

Due to their eukaryotic heritage, the differences between a fungal pathogen's molecular makeup and its human host are small. Therefore, the discovery and subsequent development of novel antifungal drugs are extremely challenging. Nevertheless, since the 1940s, researchers have successfully uncovered potent candidates from natural or synthetic sources. Analogs and novel formulations of these drugs enhanced the pharmacological parameters and improved overall drug efficiency. These compounds ultimately became the founding members of novel drug classes and were successfully applied in clinical settings, offering valuable and efficient treatment of mycosis for decades. Currently, only five different antifungal drug classes exist, all characterized by a unique mode of action; these are polyenes, pyrimidine analogs, azoles, allylamines, and echinocandins. The latter, being the latest addition to the antifungal armamentarium, was introduced over two decades ago. As a result of this limited arsenal, antifungal resistance development has exponentially increased and, with it, a growing healthcare crisis. In this review, we discuss the original sources of antifungal compounds, either natural or synthetic. Additionally, we summarize the existing drug classes, potential novel candidates in the clinical pipeline, and emerging non-traditional treatment options.

The nexus between biofuels and pesticides in agroforestry: Pathways toward United Nations sustainable development goals

The growth of global population continuously increases the demands for agroforestry-derived products, underpinning a sustainable growth of energy matrix in the sectors of food security, transportation, and industrial is momentous. The high demand for the sustainable energy sources has led to an increase in the application of pesticides associated with growing crops for the production of biofuel. In 2019, the global consumption of pesticides was 4.2 million tonnes. Case studies on life cycle assessment (LCA) of pesticides showed that toxicity is the major severe impact of pesticide usage, contributing to human toxicity (∼70%) and freshwater eco-toxicity (>50%). This alarming situation needs a solution as conventional pesticides pose various negative impacts to human and the environment, rendering the biofuel production process unsustainable. In this review, we focus on the interaction between pesticide use, biofuel production, food security for a sustainable balancing in between government benefits, environmental, and human health, aiming to track the implications and impact to the global efforts towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Even though, there are strict government regulations and legislations pertaining to pesticide use, and policies devised as guidelines for agroforestry sectors to implement and monitor these measures, the discrepancies still exist in between national and supranational entities. To cater the above issue, many efforts have been made to upscale the biofuel production, for example, the United States, Brazil, China and Indonesia have ventured into biofuels production from non-food-crops based feedstock while other developing nations are rapidly catching up. In this perspective, a sustainable nexus between Biofuels-Pesticides-Agroforestry (BPA) is essential to create a sustainable roadmap toward the UN SDGs, to fulfilling the energy, food, and land security. The contribution of technologies in BPA includes genetic modified crops, integrated pest and weed management with controlled release pesticides, use of nano-biopesticides is being reviewed. As a whole, the concept of biofuel processing complex (BPC) and farmers upskilling, together with the effective implementation of efficient policies and Internet of Things (IoT) would be the key to drive the BPA nexus towards fulfilment of SDGs.

Truncatenolide, a Bioactive Disubstituted Nonenolide Produced by Colletotrichum truncatum, the Causal Agent of Anthracnose of Soybean in Argentina: Fungal Antagonism and SAR Studies

A bioactive disubstituted nonenolide, named truncatenolide, was produced by Colletotrichum truncatum, which was collected from infected tissues of soybean showing anthracnose symptoms in Argentina. This is a devastating disease that drastically reduces the yield of soybean production in the world. The fungus also produced a new trisubstituted oct-2-en-4-one, named truncatenone, and the well-known tyrosol and N-acetyltyramine. Truncatenolide and truncatenone were characterized by spectroscopic (essentially one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) ¹H and ¹³C NMR and HR ESIMS) and chemical methods as (5E,7R,10R)-7-hydroxy-10-methyl-3,4,7,8,9,10-hexahydro-2H-oxecin-2-one and (Z)-6-hydroxy-3,5-dimethyloct-2-en-4-one, respectively. The geometry of the double bond of truncatenolide was assigned by the value of olefinic proton coupling constant and that of truncatenone by the correlation observed in the corresponding NOESY spectrum. The relative configuration of each stereogenic center was assigned with the help of ¹³C chemical shift and ¹H-¹H scalar coupling DFT calculations, while the absolute configuration assignment of truncatenolide was performed by electronic circular dichroism (ECD). When tested on soybean seeds, truncatenolide showed the strongest phytotoxic activity. Tyrosol and N-acetyltyramine also showed phytotoxicity to a lesser extent, while truncatenone weakly stimulated the growth of the seed root in comparison to the control. When assayed against Macrophomina phaseolina and Cercospora nicotianae, other severe pathogens of soybean, truncatenolide showed significant activity against M. phaseolina and total inhibition of C. nicotianae. Thus, some other fungal nonenolides and their derivatives were assayed for their antifungal activity against both fungi in comparison with truncatenolide. Pinolidoxin showed to a less extent antifungal activity against both fungi, while modiolide A selectively and totally inhibited only the growth of C. nicotianae. The SAR results and the potential of truncatenolide, modiolide A, and pinolidoxin as biofungicides were also discussed.