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Remolif G, Buonsenso F, Schiavon G, Garello M, Spadaro D. Efficacy of Essential Oil Vapours in Reducing Postharvest Rots and Effect on the Fruit Mycobiome of Nectarines. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:341. [PMID: 38786695 PMCID: PMC11121902 DOI: 10.3390/jof10050341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Nectarines can be affected by many diseases, resulting in significant production losses. Natural products, such as essential oils (EOs), are promising alternatives to pesticides to control storage rots. This work aimed to test the efficacy of biofumigation with EOs in the control of nectarine postharvest diseases while also evaluating the effect on the quality parameters (firmness, total soluble solids, and titratable acidity) and on the fruit fungal microbiome. Basil, fennel, lemon, oregano, and thyme EOs were first tested in vitro at 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0% concentrations to evaluate their inhibition activity against Monilinia fructicola. Subsequently, an in vivo screening trial was performed by treating nectarines inoculated with M. fructicola, with the five EOs at 2.0% concentration by biofumigation, performed using slow-release diffusers placed inside the storage cabinets. Fennel, lemon, and basil EOs were the most effective after storage and were selected to be tested in efficacy trials using naturally infected nectarines. After 28 days of storage, all treatments showed a significant rot reduction compared to the untreated control. Additionally, no evident phytotoxic effects were observed on the treated fruits. EO vapors did not affect the overall quality of the fruits but showed a positive effect in reducing firmness loss. Metabarcoding analysis showed a significant impact of tissue, treatment, and sampling time on the fruit microbiome composition. Treatments were able to reduce the abundance of Monilinia spp., but basil EO favored a significant increase in Penicillium spp. Moreover, the abundance of other fungal genera was found to be modified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Remolif
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.R.); (F.B.); (G.S.); (M.G.)
- Interdepartmental Centre for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector—AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Fabio Buonsenso
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.R.); (F.B.); (G.S.); (M.G.)
- Interdepartmental Centre for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector—AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Giada Schiavon
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.R.); (F.B.); (G.S.); (M.G.)
- Interdepartmental Centre for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector—AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Marco Garello
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.R.); (F.B.); (G.S.); (M.G.)
- Interdepartmental Centre for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector—AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Davide Spadaro
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.R.); (F.B.); (G.S.); (M.G.)
- Interdepartmental Centre for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector—AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
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Álvarez-García S, Moumni M, Romanazzi G. Antifungal activity of volatile organic compounds from essential oils against the postharvest pathogens Botrytis cinerea, Monilinia fructicola, Monilinia fructigena, and Monilinia laxa. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1274770. [PMID: 37860258 PMCID: PMC10582630 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1274770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Gray mold and brown rot, caused respectively by Botrytis cinerea and Monilinia spp., are fungal diseases responsible for significant losses during the storage of fruit and vegetables. Nowadays, the control of postharvest diseases is shifting towards more sustainable strategies, including the use of plant secondary metabolites. In this study, the antifungal activity of Origanum vulgare, Thymus vulgaris, Thymus serpyllum, Melaleuca alternifolia, Lavandula officinalis, Lavandula hybrida, Citrus bergamia, Rosmarinus officinalis, Cinnamomum zeylanicum essential oils (EOs) in vapor phase was tested in vitro against B. cinerea, Monilinia fructicola, Monilinia fructigena, and Monilinia laxa. For the experiments, a protocol using a volatile organic compounds (VOC) chamber was designed. Results indicate a dose-dependent inhibitory activity of all the tested EOs, with O. vulgare, T. vulgaris, and T. serpyllum being the most active ones, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 22.73, 45.45, and 22.73 µl/L, respectively, against B. cinerea and a range between 5.64 and 22.73 µl/L against the three Monilinia spp. Overall, B. cinerea presented lower sensitivity to vapor-phase EOs than any of the Monilinia strains, except for the C. zeylanicum EO, which consistently showed higher inhibition against B. cinerea. Among the three Monilinia spp., M. fructicola was the least sensitive, while M. fructigena was the most sensitive. The use of VOC chambers proved to be a reliable protocol for the assessment of antimicrobial activities of EOs. These results suggest that the VOC emitted by the tested EOs are effective towards important decay-causing fungi, and that they could be used for the control of gray mold and brown rot in in vivo trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Álvarez-García
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
- Plant Physiology Area, Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Department, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - Marwa Moumni
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Romanazzi
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
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Prusky D, Romanazzi G. Induced Resistance in Fruit and Vegetables: A Host Physiological Response Limiting Postharvest Disease Development. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2023; 61:279-300. [PMID: 37201920 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-phyto-021722-035135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Harvested fruit and vegetables are perishable, subject to desiccation, show increased respiration during ripening, and are colonized by postharvest fungal pathogens. Induced resistance is a strategy to control diseases by eliciting biochemical processes in fruits and vegetables. This is accomplished by modulating the progress of ripening and senescence, which maintains the produce in a state of heightened resistance to decay-causing fungi. Utilization of induced resistance to protect produce has been improved by scientific tools that better characterize physiological changes in plants. Induced resistance slows the decline of innate immunity after harvest and increases the production of defensive responses that directly inhibit plant pathogens. This increase in defense response in fruits and vegetables contributes to higher amounts of phenols and antioxidant compounds, improving both the quality and appearance of the produce. This review summarizes mechanisms and treatments that induce resistance in harvested fruits and vegetables to suppress fungal colonization. Moreover, it highlights the importance of host maturity and stage of ripening as limiting conditions for the improved expression of induced-resistance processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dov Prusky
- Department of Postharvest Science, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Institute, Rishon LeZion, Israel;
| | - Gianfranco Romanazzi
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy;
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Toffolatti SL, Davillerd Y, D’Isita I, Facchinelli C, Germinara GS, Ippolito A, Khamis Y, Kowalska J, Maddalena G, Marchand P, Marcianò D, Mihály K, Mincuzzi A, Mori N, Piancatelli S, Sándor E, Romanazzi G. Are Basic Substances a Key to Sustainable Pest and Disease Management in Agriculture? An Open Field Perspective. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3152. [PMID: 37687399 PMCID: PMC10490370 DOI: 10.3390/plants12173152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Pathogens and pests constantly challenge food security and safety worldwide. The use of plant protection products to manage them raises concerns related to human health, the environment, and economic costs. Basic substances are active, non-toxic compounds that are not predominantly used as plant protection products but hold potential in crop protection. Basic substances' attention is rising due to their safety and cost-effectiveness. However, data on their protection levels in crop protection strategies are lacking. In this review, we critically analyzed the literature concerning the field application of known and potential basic substances for managing diseases and pests, investigating their efficacy and potential integration into plant protection programs. Case studies related to grapevine, potato, and fruit protection from pre- and post-harvest diseases and pests were considered. In specific cases, basic substances and chitosan in particular, could complement or even substitute plant protection products, either chemicals or biologicals, but their efficacy varied greatly according to various factors, including the origin of the substance, the crop, the pathogen or pest, and the timing and method of application. Therefore, a careful evaluation of the field application is needed to promote the successful use of basic substances in sustainable pest management strategies in specific contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Laura Toffolatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali (DiSAA), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.)
| | - Yann Davillerd
- Institut de l’Agriculture et de l’Alimentation Biologiques (ITAB), 149 rue de BERCY, F-75012 Paris, France; (Y.D.); (P.M.)
| | - Ilaria D’Isita
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimenti, Risorse Naturali e Ingegneria (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Via Napoli 25, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (I.D.); (G.S.G.)
| | - Chiara Facchinelli
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy; (C.F.); (A.M.); (N.M.)
| | - Giacinto Salvatore Germinara
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimenti, Risorse Naturali e Ingegneria (DAFNE), University of Foggia, Via Napoli 25, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (I.D.); (G.S.G.)
| | - Antonio Ippolito
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy;
| | - Youssef Khamis
- Agricultural Research Center, Plant Pathology Research Institute, 9 Gamaa St., Giza 12619, Egypt;
| | - Jolanta Kowalska
- Department of Organic Agriculture and Environmental Protection, Institute of Plant Protection–National Research Institute, Władysława Wêgorka 20, 60-318 Poznañ, Poland;
| | - Giuliana Maddalena
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali (DiSAA), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.)
| | - Patrice Marchand
- Institut de l’Agriculture et de l’Alimentation Biologiques (ITAB), 149 rue de BERCY, F-75012 Paris, France; (Y.D.); (P.M.)
| | - Demetrio Marcianò
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali (DiSAA), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milano, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.)
| | - Kata Mihály
- Faculty of Agricultural and Food Science and Environmental Management, Institute of Food Science, University of Debrecen, Böszörményi út 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (K.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Annamaria Mincuzzi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy; (C.F.); (A.M.); (N.M.)
| | - Nicola Mori
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy; (C.F.); (A.M.); (N.M.)
| | - Simone Piancatelli
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche 10, 60131 Ancona, Italy; (S.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Erzsébet Sándor
- Faculty of Agricultural and Food Science and Environmental Management, Institute of Food Science, University of Debrecen, Böszörményi út 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (K.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Gianfranco Romanazzi
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche 10, 60131 Ancona, Italy; (S.P.); (G.R.)
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Valente MT, Orzali L, Manetti G, Magnanimi F, Matere A, Bergamaschi V, Grottoli A, Bechini S, Riccioni L, Aragona M. Rapid molecular assay for the evaluation of clove essential oil antifungal activity against wheat common bunt. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1130793. [PMID: 37342131 PMCID: PMC10277744 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1130793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Common bunt of durum wheat (DW), Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum (Desf.) Husn., is caused by the two closely related fungal species belonging to Tilletia genus (Tilletiales, Exobasidiomycetes, Ustilaginomycotina): Tilletia laevis Kühn (syn. T. foetida (Wallr.) Liro.) and T. caries (DC) Tul. (syn. T. tritici (Bjerk.) G. Winter). This is one of the most devastating diseases in wheat growing areas worldwide, causing considerable yield loss and reduction of wheat grains and flour quality. For these reasons, a fast, specific, sensitive, and cost-effective method for an early diagnosis of common bunt in wheat seedlings is urgent. Several molecular and serological methods were developed for diagnosis of common bunt in wheat seedlings but at late phenological stages (inflorescence) or based on conventional PCR amplification, with low sensitivity. In this study, a TaqMan Real Time PCR-based assay was developed for rapid diagnosis and quantification of T. laevis in young wheat seedlings, before tillering stage. This method, along with phenotypic analysis, was used to study conditions favoring pathogen infection and to evaluate the effectiveness of clove oil-based seed dressing in controlling the disease. The overall results showed that: i) the Real Time PCR assay was able to quantify T. laevis in young wheat seedlings after seed dressing by clove oil in different formulations, greatly reducing times of analysis. It showed high sensitivity, detecting up to 10 fg of pathogen DNA, specificity and robustness, allowing to directly analyze crude plant extracts and representing a useful tool to speed up the tests of genetic breeding for disease resistance; ii) temperature was a critical point for disease development when using wheat seeds contaminated by T. laevis spores; iii) at least one of the clove oil-based formulations tested was able to efficiently control wheat common bunt, suggesting that clove oil dressing could represent a promising tool for managing the disease, especially in sustainable farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Valente
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Orzali
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Giuliano Manetti
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Magnanimi
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Matere
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Valentino Bergamaschi
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Grottoli
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Bechini
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Riccioni
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Aragona
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Research Centre for Plant Protection and Certification (CREA-DC), Rome, Italy
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Sureshkumar J, Jenipher C, Sriramavaratharajan V, Gurav SS, Gandhi GR, Ravichandran K, Ayyanar M. Genus Equisetum L: Taxonomy, toxicology, phytochemistry and pharmacology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 314:116630. [PMID: 37207877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The genus Equisetum (Equisetaceae) is cosmopolitan in distribution, with 41 recognized species. Several species of Equisetum are widely used in treating genitourinary and related diseases, inflammatory and rheumatic problems, hypertension, and wound healing in traditional medicine practices worldwide. This review intends to present information on the traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of Equisetum spp. and to analyze the new insights for further study. METHODS Relevant literature has been scanned and collected via various electronic repositories, including PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Springer Connect, and Science Online, from 1960 to 2022. RESULTS Sixteen Equisetum spp. were documented as widely used in traditional medicine practices by different ethnic groups throughout the world. A total of 229 chemical compounds were identified from Equisetum spp. with the major group of constituents being flavonol glycosides and flavonoids. The crude extracts and phytochemicals of Equisetum spp. exhibited significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiulcerogenic, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and diuretic properties. A wide range of studies have also demonstrated the safety of Equisetum spp. CONCLUSION The reported pharmacological properties of Equisetum spp. support its use in traditional medicine, though there are gaps in understanding the traditional usage of these plants for clinical experiments. The documented information revealed that the genus is not only a great herbal remedy but also has several bioactives with the potential to be discovered as novel drugs. Detailed scientific investigation is still needed to fully understand the efficacy of this genus; hence, very few Equisetum spp. were studied in detail for phytochemical and pharmacological investigation. Moreover, its bioactives, structure-activity connection, in vivo activity, and associated mechanism of action ought to be explored further.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Sureshkumar
- Department of Botany, Sri Kaliswari College (Autonomous), (Affiliated to Madurai Kamaraj University), Sivakasi, 626 123, India.
| | - C Jenipher
- Department of Botany, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University), Poondi, Thanjavur, 613 503, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - V Sriramavaratharajan
- School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, 613 401, India.
| | - S S Gurav
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Goa College of Pharmacy, Panaji, Goa University, Goa, 403 001, India.
| | - G Rajiv Gandhi
- Department of Biosciences, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Kalamaserry, Kochi, 683104, India.
| | - K Ravichandran
- Department of Physics, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University), Poondi, Thanjavur, 613 503, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - M Ayyanar
- Department of Botany, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University), Poondi, Thanjavur, 613 503, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Marchand PA. Evolution of plant protection active substances in Europe: the disappearance of chemicals in favour of biocontrol agents. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:1-17. [PMID: 36378372 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-24057-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
With the entry into force of Regulation EC 1107/2009 and the important cut-off of a number of existing active substances from before 2011, which was processed from 342 in Annex I of Directive 91/414/EEC to 298, all these active substances are listed in Part A of Regulation EU 540/2011. Here, we have conducted a survey of all active substances since concerning their regulatory characteristics and their agricultural uses. Between 2011 and 2018, a global increase in active substances was observed with up to 502 approved, but since then an inexorable decline in the number active substances has occurred, despite numerous biocontrol agents (BCAs) being approved and only few chemicals. The newly approved active substances were then listed in Parts B, C, D and E, while renewed substances moved to Parts B to E. The impact of these changes was studied in relation to the availability of these substances and the corresponding global modifications in terms of employment, functions, uses, crops, and maximum residue limits. There has been a net loss of 53 active substances since 2018, notwithstanding 30 approvals, equates to a real loss of 95 active substances in the last 4 years and 118 since 2011. The main reduction of active substances is not only due to a falling-off of chemicals (95) but also a significant decay of BCA (19) impacting crop protection with an important reduction of the herbicides and a small increase of fungicides with an high replacement rate, with all crops being impacted, while the residue situation has greatly improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice A Marchand
- Institut de L'Agriculture et de L'Alimentation Biologiques (ITAB), 149 Rue de BERCY, 75595, PARIS CEDEX 12, France.
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Schiavon G, Garello M, Prencipe S, Meloni GR, Buonsenso F, Spadaro D. Essential Oils Reduce Grey Mould Rot of Apples and Modify the Fruit Microbiome during Postharvest Storage. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 9:jof9010022. [PMID: 36675843 PMCID: PMC9866169 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Botrytis cinerea is the causal agent of grey mould rot of apples. The efficacy of biofumigation with thyme (Thymus vulgaris), savoury (Satureja montana), and basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oils (EOs) at 1%, 0.5%, and 0.1% concentrations were tested against B. cinerea. In vitro, the results showed 100% growth inhibition at 1% concentration for all oils. Subsequent biofumigation experiments on apples of cultivar 'Opal' with 1% EOs showed that, after 60 d storage, thyme and savoury EOs significantly reduced grey mould rot incidence (average incidence 2% for both treatments) compared to the control (7%). Analyses of quality indicated slightly higher fruit firmness for 1% thyme at 30 d and slightly higher titratable acidity for 1% thyme and savoury at 60 d. Sampling of the atmosphere inside the cabinets was performed to characterize and quantify the volatile components of EOs released through biofumigation. Though thymol and p-cymene were the main components of thyme EO, the antimicrobial activity was mainly due to the presence of thymol and, to a lower extent, of carvacrol. In savoury EO, carvacrol and p-cymene were the main components, whereas in basil EO, linalool and estragole were mainly present. Metabarcoding analyses showed that the epiphytic microbiome had higher richness and evenness compared to their endophytic counterpart. By the end of shelf-life, treatments with thyme EO reduced B. cinerea abundance compared to the inoculated control for both endophytes (from 36.5% to 1.5%) and epiphytes (from 7.0% to 0.7%), while favouring a significant increase in Penicillium species both in endophytes (from 0.2% to 21.5%) and epiphytes (from 0.5% to 18.6%). Results indicate that thyme EO (1%) and savoury EO (1%) are equally effective in hampering grey mould rot development in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Schiavon
- Department of Agricultural, Forestry and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
- Centre of Competence for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector-AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Marco Garello
- Department of Agricultural, Forestry and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
- Centre of Competence for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector-AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Simona Prencipe
- Department of Agricultural, Forestry and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Giovanna Roberta Meloni
- Department of Agricultural, Forestry and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
- Centre of Competence for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector-AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Fabio Buonsenso
- Department of Agricultural, Forestry and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
- Centre of Competence for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector-AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Davide Spadaro
- Department of Agricultural, Forestry and Food Sciences (DISAFA), University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
- Centre of Competence for the Innovation in the Agro-Environmental Sector-AGROINNOVA, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Preharvest Application of Commercial Products Based on Chitosan, Phosphoric Acid Plus Micronutrients, and Orange Essential Oil on Postharvest Quality and Gray Mold Infections of Strawberry. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415472. [PMID: 36555113 PMCID: PMC9779177 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Strawberry is a perishable fruit with a limited shelf life after harvest due to deterioration of quality and the development of gray mold, Rhizopus rot and other minor diseases. In this study, the effectiveness of commercial compounds based on chitosan, phosphoric acid plus micronutrients, and sweet orange essential oil (EO) in reducing decay and optimizing the quality of strawberries was analyzed. The plant canopy of a greenhouse crop was sprayed once and strawberry fruit were harvested three days later. Gray mold infections were evaluated after chilled storage for seven days at 4 ± 0.5 °C followed by five days shelf life. The qualitative parameters were recorded at harvest (initial day) and after three days of storage at room temperature (RT, 20 °C) or after cold storage and shelf life (CS, 4 °C). The application of sweet orange EO increased the antioxidant and flavonoid content at harvest, while a decrease was reported following three days of storage at RT. At the same time, increased ethylene production and weight loss were observed during CS three days after harvesting. Chitosan treatment maintained the harvest fruit quality and was effective in the control of postharvest decay. Our results suggest that the investigated natural compounds could improve strawberry quality after harvest. Since chitosan performed best in terms of maintaining quality and reducing postharvest decay, it could be considered as a good substitute for chemical-synthetic fungicides for the preservation of strawberry postharvest gray mold.
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Burtscher-Schaden H, Durstberger T, Zaller JG. Toxicological Comparison of Pesticide Active Substances Approved for Conventional vs. Organic Agriculture in Europe. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10120753. [PMID: 36548586 PMCID: PMC9783316 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10120753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
There is much debate about whether the (mostly synthetic) pesticide active substances (AS) in conventional agriculture have different non-target effects than the natural AS in organic agriculture. We evaluated the official EU pesticide database to compare 256 AS that may only be used on conventional farmland with 134 AS that are permitted on organic farmland. As a benchmark, we used (i) the hazard classifications of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), and (ii) the dietary and occupational health-based guidance values, which were established in the authorization procedure. Our comparison showed that 55% of the AS used only in conventional agriculture contained health or environmental hazard statements, but only 3% did of the AS authorized for organic agriculture. Warnings about possible harm to the unborn child, suspected carcinogenicity, or acute lethal effects were found in 16% of the AS used in conventional agriculture, but none were found in organic agriculture. Furthermore, the establishment of health-based guidance values for dietary and non-dietary exposures were relevant by the European authorities for 93% of conventional AS, but only for 7% of organic AS. We, therefore, encourage policies and strategies to reduce the use and risk of pesticides, and to strengthen organic farming in order to protect biodiversity and maintain food security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmut Burtscher-Schaden
- Umweltforschungsinstitut & Umweltorganisation Global 2000 (Friends of the Earth Austria), Neustiftgasse 36, 1070 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence:
| | - Thomas Durstberger
- Umweltforschungsinstitut & Umweltorganisation Global 2000 (Friends of the Earth Austria), Neustiftgasse 36, 1070 Vienna, Austria
| | - Johann G. Zaller
- Department of Integrative Biology and Biodiversity Research, Institute of Zoology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU), Gregor Mendel Straße 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria
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Romanazzi G, Moumni M. Chitosan and other edible coatings to extend shelf life, manage postharvest decay, and reduce loss and waste of fresh fruits and vegetables. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2022; 78:102834. [PMID: 36343563 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Fresh fruits and vegetables contain high percentage of water and continue metabolic activity after being harvested, resulting in ripening, increased sensitivity to decay-causing fungi, and consequent loss and waste. Edible coatings are prepared from naturally occurring renewable sources and can contribute to reducing waste, respecting environment, and consumer health. Chitosan and other edible coatings form a thin layer surrounding fresh produce that acts as a protective agent, extending shelf life, and have the potential to control their ripening process and maintain nutritional properties of the coated product. This review discusses recent research on the application of chitosan and other edible coatings to prevent fungal decay, keep the quality, and reduce fresh product waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianfranco Romanazzi
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Marwa Moumni
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
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