This study reports the synthesis and doping of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with metalated porphyrins-nickel [Ni-t(OH)4-Por] (M1-Por), zinc [Zn-t(OH)4-Por] (M2-Por), and manganese [Mn-t(OH)4-Por] (M3-Por) to develop reduced graphene oxide–porphyrin nanocomposites (rGO-M1-Por, rGO-M2-Por, and rGO-M3-Por). These nanocomposites were thoroughly characterized using UV–Vis, FT-IR, 1H NMR, PXRD, and SEM techniques, and their remarkable antimicrobial activity was further supported by insilico molecular docking studies. The antimicrobial efficacy of the metalloporphyrins (M1-Por, M2-Por, and M3-Por) and their hybrids (rGO-M1-Por, rGO-M2-Por, and rGO-M3-Por) was assessed against various bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Enterococcus faecium gram-positive strains, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Escherichia coli gram-negative strains) and fungal strains (Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans). Among the metalloporphyrin complexes, (M3-Por) exhibited the highest activity, attributed to the redox-active Mn(II) center and its strong binding affinity (− 10.54 kcal/mol) through multiple hydrogen bonds. Hybrid nanocomposites demonstrated superior bioactivity, with (rGO-M3-Por) achieving the lowest binding energy (− 14.39 kcal/mol) and extensive hydrogen bonding with ARG24 and ARG27. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations with S. aureus nucleoside diphosphate kinase revealed stable interactions involving hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking, and hydrophobic contacts. Furthermore, insilico ADMET studies indicated good drug-likeness, non-toxicity, and potential for safe oral administration.

A growing body of evidence indicates that artificial manipulation of transcriptional regulation is a powerful approach to activate cryptic biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) of secondary metabolites (SMs) in fungi. In this study, one mutant strain MNP-2-OE::veA was constructed by overexpressing the global transcription regulator veA in an Arctic-derived strain Aspergillus sydowii MNP-2. Chemical investigation of the mutant OE::veA resulted in the isolation of one novel polyhydroxy anthraquinone (1) together with nine known metabolites (2–10), which were unambiguously characterized by various spectroscopic methods including 1D and 2D NMR and HR-ESI-MS as well as via comparison with literature data. Biosynthetically, compounds 1 and 10 as new arising chemicals were, respectively, formed by type II polyketide synthase (T2PK) and non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS), which were silent in the wild-type (WT) strain MNP-2. A bioassay showed that only compound 3 had weak inhibitory effect on human pathogen Candida albicans, with a MIC value of 64 ug/mL, and 4 displayed in vitro weak cytotoxic activity against HCT116 cells (IC50 = 44.47 μM). These results indicate that overexpression of veA effectively awakened the cryptic BGCs in fungal strains and enhanced their structural diversity in natural products.

Upcycling of spent coffee grounds solid-state fermentation by Aspergillus strains: in vitro assessment of prebiotic activity and gut health benefits.

Investigation into the dynamic process of natural inoculation-enhanced fermentation of summer-autumn green tea with aspergillus cristatus.

The study investigated the bioconversion of wheat bran into xylanases by Aspergillus tamarii URM3266 under submerged fermentation. Initial screening of seven Aspergillus strains identified A. tamarii URM3266 as the most efficient xylanase producer (52.9 U/mL). Wheat bran was the best substrate for enzyme production (54.7 U/mL). A 2³ factorial design revealed that wheat bran concentration was the most significant factor, with high levels (4%) inhibiting enzymatic activity, while lower concentrations (1%) combined with urea (0.6 g/L) maximized production. Fermentation kinetics indicated peak enzyme activity (66.20 U/mL) at 72 h. Xylanase exhibited optimal activity at pH 5.0 and 50 °C, with high stability over a pH range of 4.0-6.0 and up to 50 °C. The kinetic parameters (Km = 5.5 mg/mL; Vmax = 96.15 U/mL) indicated good substrate affinity. The results highlight the potential of A. tamarii URM3266 and wheat bran for the sustainable production of xylanases with biotechnological applications.

Schiff base ligand, 5-methoxy-2-[(E)-{[2-(thiophen-2-yl)ethyl]imino}methyl]phenol (LH) and its cobalt(III), nickel(II) and copper(II) metal complexes viz., Co(L)3, Ni(L)2, Cu(L)2 were synthesized and characterized. The structure of the ligand was established from the X-ray diffraction studies including other conventional techniques viz., FT-IR, UV-visible, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and Mass studies. Complexes of the ligand LH were confirmed through FT-IR, UV-visible and CHN analysis. The ligand (LH) and its metal complexes were evaluated for their antimicrobial and antidiabetic potential, supported by a comprehensive computational molecular docking study. Docking simulations demonstrated strong and favourable binding interactions of the ligand and its complexes with major antimicrobial proteins, DNA gyrase and cytochrome P450 14α-sterol demethylase, as well as antidiabetic targets, α-amylase and α-glucosidase, thereby supporting the experimental findings. The antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method against bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and fungal strains Aspergillus flavus and Pichia anomala. Antidiabetic activity was evaluated through in vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays. The results indicated that both the ligand and its metal complexes exhibited moderate to good antibacterial and antifungal activities. However, in antidiabetic studies, the Cu(L)2 complex showed negligible inhibitory activity, while the remaining complexes displayed appreciable effects. Among all the tested compounds, the Co(L)3 complex emerged as the most promising antidiabetic agent, exhibiting significant inhibition of both α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. Overall, the experimental antimicrobial and antidiabetic outcomes showed strong agreement with the molecular docking results, underscoring the reliability of computational predictions in rationalizing the biological behaviour of the synthesized compounds.

Mangrove ecosystems are rich sources of diverse microbial communities, including fungi capable of producing industrially significant enzymes such as polygalacturonase. Identifying potent fungal strains with high enzymatic activity is crucial for biotechnological applications. This study aimed to isolate, identify, and characterize fungal strains from mangrove soils in Gilakaladhindi and Malakayalanka, Krishna District, with a focus on their polygalacturonase production potential. A total of 57 fungal strains were isolated from soil samples using serial dilution and pectin agar plating. The strain exhibiting the highest polygalacturonase activity was selected for further study. Identification of the potent strains was performed through 18S rRNA sequencing, and the sequences were deposited in the NCBI GenBank with accession numbers MK192017, MG271916, KU613360, and KU613362. Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy was conducted to analyze the structural composition of the enzyme, identifying functional groups responsible for its activity. Four fungal strains Aspergillus nomius, Aspergillus terreus, Penicillium citrinum, and Penicillium griseofulvum were confirmed as potent polygalacturonase producers. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis detected hydroxyl, carboxyl, acetyl, and pyruvyl groups, indicating the presence of essential biochemical components. The chemical composition of polygalacturonase consisted primarily of neutral sugars, uronic acids, and proteins. These findings provide valuable insights into fungal polygalacturonase production and its potential applications in various industrial processes.

Bioinformatic assessment of allergenicity, virulence, and secondary metabolites in Aspergillus species for industrial applications.

Invasive mycoses are becoming an increasingly serious global health problem, especially for immunocompromised patients. One of the main causative agents of these infections are fungi of the genus Aspergillus, Aspergillus fumigatus is particularly dangerous. Despite the success in the treatment of antimycotics, primarily azole agents, the spread of resistant strains of Aspergillus spp. It is becoming a new threat to medicine. The purpose of this work is to summarize information on the prevalence of drug-resistant Aspergillus spp. and about the mechanisms of resistance to antifungal antibiotics identified in them. A search has been conducted for relevant research articles and reviews over the past 10 years in electronic databases. eLibrary.ru , PubMed, Google Scholar, Wally. The analysis showed a significant increase in cases of invasive aspergillosis caused by resistant strains of the genus Aspergillus. The main mechanisms of resistance include mutations in the cyp51 gene, and hyperactivation of transport proteins that remove drugs from the cell. Resistant forms of pathogens are found in Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The results obtained can be used to make recommendations for improving the effectiveness of surveillance management for the resistance of fungi of the genus Aspergillus to antifungal agents. Priority research areas should include the development of antimycotics, the creation of new diagnostic tests for the rapid detection of resistant strains, and the optimization of treatment regimens. It is necessary to raise awareness among medical professionals about the risks associated with the use of azole preparations and strengthen control measures over the emergence of resistant species.

Saprophytic fungi of the genus Aspergillus are widely distributed in nature and can act as etiological agents of nosocomial infections. The air environment, including ventilation systems, is one of the most common sources of their spread in medical facilities. To evaluate the effectiveness of different disinfection methods and disinfectants in relation 24 strains of Aspergillus spp. isolated from ventilation systems in medical facilities, three disinfection methods using five different disinfectants were tested . Disinfection methods recommended for ventilation and air conditioning systems (air ducts), as well as a method recommended for mold lesions were tested. The effectiveness of each method was evaluated using both the suspension and test object methods. The effectiveness of the recommended mode for mold lesions was confirmed when evaluated using the suspension method. However, the insufficient effectiveness of the mode recommended for disinfecting ventilation and air conditioning systems (air ducts) at the minimum permitted concentration of disinfectants was noted. The resistance of individual strains to one or several disinfectants was confirmed when using the modes recommended for the disinfection of ventilation and air conditioning systems (ducts). Keywords: Aspergillus, disinfectants, disinfection mode, efficiency, air environment, ventilation, medical organizations, sensitivity, fungi.

Background: Plants from the genus Piper have long been used in traditional medicine for their diverse pharmacological properties. Among them, Piper betle and Piper longum are known for their potential therapeutic effects, yet comparative studies on their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of various solvent extracts prepared from the leaf, stem, and root parts of Piper betle and Piper longum. Materials and Methods: Solvent extracts were prepared from different plant parts using appropriate solvents. Antimicrobial activity was tested against four bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and two fungal strains (Aspergillus niger and Rhizopus sp.) using the agar well diffusion method. Antioxidant activity was determined by the DPPH radical scavenging assay, and IC₅₀ values were calculated. Results: Piper betle demonstrated a broader and stronger antimicrobial spectrum than Piper longum. The methanolic leaf extract of P. betle (A1MH) exhibited the highest inhibition zone (21 mm) against Proteus vulgaris, whereas Pseudomonas aeruginosa was resistant to all extracts. In antioxidant assays, A1MH showed the strongest activity with an IC₅₀ value of 37.57 µg/ml, comparable to that of standard ascorbic acid (IC₅₀ = –0.10 µg/ml). Piper longum extracts displayed comparatively lower antioxidant potential. Conclusion: The methanolic leaf extract of Piper betle exhibited significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, supporting its traditional use as a natural therapeutic agent. Further studies are warranted to isolate and characterize the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects.

Relevance. Probiotic-based starter cultures are used to improve the quality and safety of whole-grain bread. The aim of the study is to use plant substrates with prebiotic properties as fermentation media. Whole-grain buckwheat flour, rich in antioxidants, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, can serve as such a substrate. Fermentation using probiotic starter cultures in whole grain bread technology increases the bioavailability of active compounds, nutritional value and microbiological safety of the product. Methods. Experimental data are presented on the effect of whole-milled buckwheat flour on the growth of lactic acid bacteria and a probiotic yeast strain during the production of thick starter cultures. The antagonistic properties of starter microorganisms against Bacillus subtilis and mold fungi of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, and Rhizopus were studied, along with the fermentative activity of the starter. The optimal dosage of thick buckwheat probiotic starter for whole wheat bread production was determined, along with the amino acid composition and antioxidant activity of the resulting bread. Results . It was found that starter strains developed better in a medium made from the Bashkir Red-Stem buckwheat variety. Antagonistic activity of the studied lactic acid bacteria and yeast strains was observed against Bacillus subtilis VKM-B-501 and certain mold strains of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, and Rhizopus. The most promising lactic acid bacteria strains were selected for creating a thick buckwheat probiotic starter. The starter was deemed suitable for baking applications. The optimal amount of thick buckwheat probiotic starter was 40% of the mass of dispersed wheat grain. Using this starter in whole wheat bread technology resulted in bread with enhanced antioxidant activity and a more balanced amino acid profile.

ABSTRACTRespiratory aspergillosis refers to a range of infections, from allergic to chronic and invasive, which can be life‐threatening and are primarily caused by Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus. Other species, including Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus nidulans, and Aspergillus versicolor, have also been implicated in respiratory infections. Treatment for chronic to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis typically involves azole antifungal drugs, although studies have shown varying minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for these medications, with a growing concern over voriconazole resistance. During the period from August 2022 to May 2024, characteristic hyphae were detected in 7.2% of lower respiratory samples, with culture positivity in 12.8%, including early morning sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. A. flavus (n = 282) was the most frequently isolated species, followed by A. fumigatus (n = 86). Additionally, a seasonal trend was observed for Aspergillus infections, with peaks in April and September. The MIC of itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, amphotericin B, ravuconazole, and caspofungin were assessed for the isolated Aspergillus species. A higher MIC of amphotericin B was observed against A. flavus and A. terreus, whereas azoles exhibited a relatively lower MIC. Caspofungin and posaconazole exhibited the lowest MIC against the isolated Aspergillus species. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the causative fungi and determine the antifungal MIC for Aspergillus species responsible for lower respiratory tract infections. This study emphasizes the significance of respiratory aspergillosis in TB‐endemic regions of Eastern India.

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) is widely recognized as both an oil crop and a high-quality forage. However, the comprehensive utilization of tiger nut meal (TNM) remains underexplored. This study investigates the potential of solid-state fermentation with selected microorganisms to convert TNM into a high-nutritional-value animal feed. After evaluation, fermentation of TNM with Saccharomyces cerevisiae GLLB−3, or the mixture of S. cerevisiae GLLB−3 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SCTM−1 (EMIX group) improves the nutrient profiles of TNM. Post-fermentation, the contents of crude protein, crude fiber, total phosphorus, and amino acids increased. Especially, the crude protein content in TNM fermented with S. cerevisiae GLLB−3 increased by 34.71%, whereas TNM fermented with EMIX exhibited a 27.77% increase. Additionally, essential amino acids except histidine showed significant increases, ranging from 6.82% to 119.49%. The fermentation not only enhances TNM’s nutritional values but also contributes to a more balanced amino acid composition suitable for animal feed production. Simultaneously, fermentation of TNM with two Aspergillus strains changes amino acid and other nutrient profiles. The analysis of the fermented products revealed significant increases in the contents of crude protein, crude fiber, total phosphorus, and amino acids. Notably, the levels of eight essential amino acids were substantially elevated, indicating a marked improvement in the nutritional quality of the fermented products as compared to the raw materials. This study demonstrates probiotic fermentation can effectively enhance the nutritional profile of TNM, highlighting it as a promising approach for the comprehensive utilization of tiger nut by-products.

Background: The escalating threat of mosquito-borne diseases demands innovative control strategies. This study explored the potential of beetle-associated fungi as biological control agents against Culex mosquito larvae in southwestern Algeria. Methods: Fungal strains were isolated from beetle carcasses collected from pesticide-free regions of Beni Abbès and Béchar using dilution plating techniques. Based on metabolic profiles, four strains were selected for bioassays: Three Aspergillus species and one Penicillium species. Culex larvae were exposed to fungal concentration of 106 conidia/ml in sterile rearing water. Larval mortality was monitored daily over seven days. Result: The results demonstrated significant larval mortality across all fungal strains. Aspergillus species showed faster mortality rates within three to five days, while Penicillium sp took seven days to show complete death. The LT50 values also confirm the rapid action of Aspergillus strains with Aspergillus sp 1 showing the most potent activity (LT50=1.25 days). On the other hand, Penicillium sp was slower with an LT50 value of 3 days, these findings highlight the power EPF associated with beetles to be an effective tool for mosquito management in the region.

The unreported peptide versicotide K (1), along with known averufin (2), 1'- hydroxyversicolorin B (3), averufanin (4), and sterigmatocystin (5), was isolated from the sponge-derived fungal strain Aspergillus versicolor 01NT- 1.5.1. Moreover, the new 6,8-dimethoxyaverythrin (6) and known averythrin (7) and sclerotiotide F (8) were isolated from another sponge-derived fungus Aspergillus flavus КMM 4695 (= VO49-48.3). The antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of the isolated compounds were studied. The obtained data on the low cytotoxicity of averufanin (4) to normal HaCaT keratinocytes and H9c2 cardiomyocytes confirms its anticancer potential for future research. The significant activity of averythrin (7) against Staphylococcus aureus growth and biofilm formation (IC50 of approximately 10µM) is the first. The anti-inflammatory activity of versicotide K (1) was predicted using the PASS online server. Moreover, SwissTargetPrediction services predicted COX2 as a possible target for 1, and the interaction of 1 with COX2 was calculated using a molecular docking approach. In in vitro experiments, versicotide K (1) reduced S. aureus infection and ischemia/reperfusion damage of H9c2 cells and prevented TNF-α induced damage of H9c2 cardiomyocytes by 24%, confirming its anti-inflammatory properties.

Azole-resistant Aspergillus infections are a source of increasing concern with limited alternative therapeutic options. However, as most infections are still caused by azole-susceptible Aspergillus strains, there is a need to better understand fungal responses to azole antifungals. To this end, we discover that a long non-coding RNA, afu-182, is a major regulator of cyp51-independent azole recalcitrant colony growth (ARC). We observe that loss of afu-182 leads to azole recalcitrant biofilms and poor treated disease outcomes in murine invasive pulmonary aspergillosis models. In contrast, overexpression of afu-182 significantly reduces fungal burden in animals treated with azole drugs. Whole transcriptome analyses revealed that azole drug treatment leads to an increase in transcripts of genes encoding 7-transmembrane domain proteins of the RTA1 family, and these proteins are negatively regulated by afu-182. Two RTA1 family genes downstream of afu-182 regulation have individual and combined effect in regulating fungal ARC. Taken together, our data show a trans-acting role of the long non-coding RNA afu-182 in regulating Aspergillus fumigatus response to azole drugs both in vitro and in vivo. These data provide further support for investigating antifungal drug responses beyond minimum inhibitory concentration testing.

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the efficacy of 6‐phytase produced by the genetically modified strain Aspergillus oryzae DSM 33737 (HiPhorius™) as a zootechnical feed additive for all poultry, all porcine species and all fin fish. In a previous opinion, the FEEDAP Panel concluded that the additive is safe for the target species, consumers and the environment. The Panel also concluded that the additive is not a skin and eye irritant but should be considered as skin and respiratory sensitiser. The Panel concluded that the additive had the potential to be efficacious as a zootechnical additive when included in the diet of poultry for fattening or reared for laying/breeding, reproductive porcine species and all fin fish. However, due to the lack of sufficient data, the Panel was not in the position to conclude on the efficacy for laying and reproductive poultry and growing porcine species. The applicant provided new trials to support the efficacy of the additive in those target species. Based on the data provided in the previous and current applications, the Panel concluded that the additive has the potential to be efficacious in all poultry and all porcine species.

Modern industry, reliant on petroleum-derived synthetic emulsifiers, faces an urgent need for more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. In this context, bioemulsifiers emerge as a powerful alternative, demonstrating superior emulsifying and stabilizing properties that can lead to cleaner and safer industrial processes. This study investigated the bioemulsifier production of eighteen filamentous fungal isolates, including strains of Aspergillus, Paecilomyces, and Trichoderma, sourced from a petroleum waste landfill. All isolates effectively emulsified motor oil (E24 > 90%) and produced stable emulsions lasting up to three months. Bioemulsifiers from Aspergillus flavus 85b and Trichoderma koningii 96b were extracted using ethanol precipitation and characterized for emulsifying activity. While the bioemulsifier extract from A. flavus A85b emulsified crude, motor, and diesel oils, T. koningii A96b's extract emulsified crude and motor, but not diesel oil. These bioemulsifiers formed stable emulsions even at concentrations of 50µg.mL- 1 and under challenging conditions, including high salinity (up to 30% NaCl) and elevated temperature (121°C). Their anionic nature was confirmed through double diffusion on agar, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy suggested a composition of carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids. Ultimately, these findings highlight fungi from contaminated environments as a sustainable source of stable bioemulsifiers for various industrial and bioremediation applications.

Obligate marine fungi associated with mangroves are a unique group that fulfils significant ecological functions in mangrove ecosystems. The present study aimed to assess the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer potentials of the marine fungus "Swampomyces armeniacus" isolated and characterized (on both morphological and molecular levels) from mangroves located in RAS Mohamed natural protectorate on the Red Sea coast; along with determining the metabolomics profiling of the candidate species. The antimicrobial capability was assessed via the agar well diffusion method against 6 strains (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella sonnei, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger) alongside determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by two-fold microdilution method. The study findings indicated that S. armeniacus crude extract had antimicrobial activity against all test strains whereas the strongest effect was against B. cereus with MIC value 0.7 μg/ml. Moreover, the antioxidant potential was determined via DPPH which showed strong radical scavenging activity of 88.3% and IC50 = 20.4 μg/mL. Additionally, the extract exhibited significant anticancer activity against A549 lung cancer cells, with an IC50 value of 15.57 ± 0.27 µg/mL, while showing minimal toxicity toward normal Wi38 cells (IC50 = 37.71 ± 0.31 µg/mL). GC-MS investigation of S. armeniacus crude extract exhibiting antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer related bioactive compounds such as (Di-tert-butylhydroquinone, 4-Aminocyclohexanecarboxylic acid) and various fatty acids namely (stearic acid, palmitic acid, Ethanedioic acid, and Butanedioic acid). These results highlight the biological activity of S. armeniacus and emphasizing its potential as a unique source of bioactive molecules for biotechnological and therapeutic applications.