Rhizopus Species Research Articles

First Report of Alternaria alternata and Rhizopus arrhizus Causing Drooping and Death on Sunflower Sprouts (Helianthus annuus) in Kazakhstan

This study presents the first confirmed report of Alternaria alternata and Rhizopus arrhizus as causative agents of seedling wilt and death in sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in Kazakhstan. During phytopathological examination of seeds from four sunflower hybrids, characteristic fungal colonies were identified through morphological and molecular methods, including ITS sequencing and PCR amplification of Alt a1 and calmodulin genes. Symptoms of brown spots, desiccation, and gray mold were observed, with re-inoculation tests confirming pathogenicity. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a 91-98% similarity with known Alternaria and Rhizopus species. This research emphasizes the importance of monitoring imported seed material and implementing integrated disease management strategies. The findings contribute to understanding phytopathogen diversity in the region and inform recommendations for disease prevention in sunflower cultivation.

Comparative Evaluation of Preservation Methods on the Microbiological and Proximate Indices of Onions (Allium cepa L.)

Onions (Allium cepa L.) are among the most widely utilized vegetables globally known for both their culinary and nutritional attributes. Despite their importance, onions are highly perishable and susceptible to quality degradation under suboptimal storage conditions, particularly due to fluctuations in humidity and temperature. This study evaluated the impact of three preservation techniques such as salting, drying, and freezing on the nutritional profile and microbiological safety of onion samples during storage. Fresh onions were processed into raw, salted, dried (as onion powder), and frozen forms. Proximate analyses were conducted to assess moisture, protein, ash, fat, fibre, and carbohydrate levels before and after storage. Standard microbiological procedures were used to determine total viable counts, coliforms, yeasts, and moulds, while microbial species were identified via morphological and biochemical characterization. Results showed a marked reduction in moisture content in dried onions, which correlated with increased concentrations of protein and carbohydrates. Salting significantly suppressed microbial proliferation, including coliform and fungal populations. Although freezing preserved initial moisture levels, it was associated with increased fungal activity, likely due to intermittent thawing. The most frequently isolated microorganisms included Pseudomonas spp. and Staphylococcus spp., as well as Penicillium, Rhizopus, and Aspergillus species. Overall, salting and drying proved most effective in enhancing shelf life and maintaining product quality.

Sensitivity and specificity of immunohistochemistry for the diagnosis of filamentous fungal infections.

Many fungal species share overlapping morphologic features in tissue sections, preventing reliable identification and optimal treatment. We sought to determine whether immunohistochemistry (IHC) using a panel of commercially available antibodies could effectively distinguish between fungi commonly encountered in anatomic pathology specimens. Anti-Aspergillus, anti-Rhizopus, and anti-Candida IHC was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections from 24 cases with fungal infections identified by culture or sequencing (including 4 polyfungal infections). Anti-Aspergillus IHC was positive in 6 of 6 Aspergillus and focally in 1 of 4 Candida species infections and negative in all cases of Fusarium, Scedosporium, Rhizopus, and Mucor species, yielding overall sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 95%. Anti-Rhizopus IHC was positive in 4 of 4 Rhizopus and 1 of 3 Mucor species infections and negative in all other cases, with a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 100%. Anti-Candida IHC was positive in 4 of 4 Candida species infections and showed some cross-reactivity in all other cases, resulting in 100% sensitivity and 0% specificity. Anti-Aspergillus IHC was highly sensitive and specific in its ability to distinguish Aspergillus from other similar-appearing hyaline molds, including Fusarium and Scedosporium species. Anti-Rhizopus IHC was moderately sensitive and highly specific, while anti-Candida IHC was highly sensitive but had minimal specificity.

Pathogenic Fungal Diversity Affecting Vegetables and Pulses in Amravati Region (M.S.)

Abstract India, a tropical country, boasts a rich fungal diversity, contributing nearly one-third of the global total. This study aimed to present an overview of fungal diseases affecting commonly cultivated vegetable and pulse crops in the Amravati region of Maharashtra. Various agricultural food and vegetable crops were selected for investigation. Plants were assessed based on disease symptoms, and samples were collected for photographic documentation and laboratory analysis. Fungal pathogens were identified through microscopic examination, Agar culture isolation, and relevant literature references. Prevalent fungal diseases included powdery mildews, leaf spots, and white rust;also wilt, leaf blights, black smut, and brown rust, all of which significantly impact economically important crops. A total of 36 diseases were observed, with 27 affecting vegetables and 9 affecting pulse crops. Dominant pathogens included Erysiphe (10), Cercospora (6), Alternaria (5), Albugo (3), and Fusarium (3), along with single occurrences of Pythium, Plasmodiophora, Rhizopus, Peronospora, Urocystis, Phomopsis, Colletotrichum, Uromyces, and Leveillula species. The study revealed notable fungal diversity among host plants, encompassing both ubiquitous forms and host-specific species. Keywords: Vegetables, pulses, fungal diseases, survey, Amravati region

Neurovascular Pathology in Intracranial Mucormycosis: Treatment by Cranial Bypass and Literature Review.

Rhino-orbital cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) is an aggressive fungal infection involving the paranasal sinuses, orbit, and intracranial cavity, with a propensity for vascular invasion. This can lead to complications such as internal carotid artery (ICA) thrombosis and occlusion, presenting major neurosurgical challenges. Although surgical debridement and antifungal therapy are the mainstays of treatment, cases with significant neurovascular involvement require specialized intervention. We report a case of ROCM with severe flow-limiting ICA stenosis treated by direct extracranial-intracranial bypass. tA 65-year-old man with diabetes presented with progressive left-sided blindness and facial numbness. Imaging revealed a left orbital mass extending into the paranasal sinuses and intracranially. Empiric antifungal therapy was started. Pathology confirmed Rhizopus species. Despite extensive surgical debridement and antifungal therapy, the patient developed progressive severe cavernous ICA stenosis, leading to watershed territory strokes. To restore cerebral perfusion, protect from distal emboli, and prepare for potential aggressive debridement, a flow-replacing direct (superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery (M2)) bypass was performed, and the supraclinoid carotid was trapped. Intraoperative angiography confirmed robust flow through the bypass. The patient was discharged on antifungal therapy and aspirin. At 6-month follow-up, the patient was neurologically intact with an modified Rankin Scale score of 1. Computed tomography angiography and transcranioplasty Doppler ultrasonography confirmed good flow through the bypass. In addition to antifungal therapy and surgical debridement, superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery bypass can be a lifesaving intervention in the management of ROCM with severe cerebrovascular compromise. This case highlights the critical role of cranial bypass in preserving cerebral perfusion in patients with flow-limiting ROCM-associated ICA invasion.

Silver Gelled Chitosan Films: Preparation, Inclusion of Sunflower Seed Oil, and Application in Bread Packaging

Silver gelled chitosan (CS-Ag) films with improved mechanical traits were prepared via a simple technique, which comprised freezing the CS solution, and then pouring the AgNO3 solution onto it. This resulted in the creation of uniform and mechanically stable CS-Ag films due to the slow diffusion of AgNO3 into the frozen solid CS. The films were characterized via scan electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). Their antimicrobial and mechanical traits were inspected. The tensile strength (TS) of the 1.5% (w/w) AgNO3 processed CS-Ag films reached 22.42 ± 0.89 MPa and its elongation at break was 33.01 ± 2.67%. The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of this film was also inspected and it was 167.77 g/m2day. This value was reduced to 146.95 and 120.68 g/m2day, after the inclusion of sunflower seed oil (SFO) within the CS-Ag films at 5% and 8% (w/w), respectively, and this reflected the increased water resistance of the SFO-CS-Ag films. The inclusion of SFO at concentration ≥ 5% (w/w) also increased the films antimicrobial traits when Aspergillus and Rhizopus species were inspected. On the other hand, the TS of the SFO-CS-Ag films was reduced to 15.13 ± 1.61 MPa and 10.17 ± 0.77 MPa for the 5% and 8% SFO, respectively. Nonetheless, these values were still within 8.3–31.4 MPa TS range of the frequently utilized packaging material; low-density polyethylene. Thus, the 5% and 8% (w/w) SFO-CS-Ag films were utilized to package white bread. The 8% (w/w) SFO-CS-Ag film efficiently preserved bread as no fungal growth observed for 10 storage days.

A Small Cut, a Big Challenge: Pediatric Mucormycosis in an Unexpected Host.

Mucormycosis is an infrequent fungal infection commonly seen in immunocompromised individuals. However, it can also occur in immunocompetent patients, especially following trauma. We present a case of a 15-month-old girl with increasing swelling and redness in her left eye after a minor traumatic injury. Imaging showed sinusitis with orbital involvement. Histopathology validated the diagnosis of mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus species. The patient had emergency surgery, followed by antifungal and antibiotic therapy. Despite febrile reactions to the treatment, the infection was managed, and the patient was discharged after 2 months. This case highlights the importance of considering mucormycosis in immunocompetent patients with unexplained ocular symptoms after trauma. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are essential for improving outcomes, especially in pediatric patients.

ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CELLULOLYTIC BACTERIA AND FUNGI FROM CASSAVA WASTE AND MILL SOIL

The abundance of cellulose on earth, the need for its biodegradation and the various applications of cellulolytic enzymes in commercial settings have necessitated unrestrained research for novel cellulase producing indigenous microorganisms for local production of the enzyme to meet the ever-growing and enormous demand for it. Soil sample was collected from a cassava processing mill while freshly harvested cassava was peeled and steeped in water for five days. Cellulase degrading bacteria and fungi were isolated from the cassava mill soil and the liquid waste (Cassava steeped water) on nutrient agar and potato dextrose agar using pour plate method under standard laboratory conditions for 48 hours. The isolated bacteria and fungi were identified using cellular morphology and biochemical characteristics; they were screened for cellulolytic ability on carboxyl methyl cellulose media supplemented with 0.5% Congo red and incubated for 48 hours. The bacteria isolated were Escherichial coli, Pseudomonas and Bacillus species while the fungi isolates were Aspergillus fumigatus, flavus, terreus, niger, Rhizopus species and Trichodermal species. The isolated Pseudomonas species has the highest cellulolytic ability of (18.00 mm) in terms of diameter of zone of clearance on the Congo red media among the bacteria, then the Bacillus species (15.00 mm) while the least of 1.00 mm was in the E. coli isolated. Aspergillus terreus, fumigatus and niger were the isolates with highest cellulolytic ability with zones of clearance measuring 15.00, 13.00 and 13.00 mm respectively. Conclusively, the isolated Pseudomonas, Bacillus and Aspergillus species are promising organisms as potential enzyme cellulase producer.

A case of mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus in a renal transplant patient.

A 54-year-old man who had been on the kidney donor register for 32years received a kidney from a 9-year-old boy who had died of fulminant myocarditis. The post-operative course was poor, and hemodialysis was still needed after surgery. A kidney biopsy one hour after surgery showed a neutrophil-predominant inflammatory cell infiltrate localized to the peritubular capillaries (PTC) and acute tubular necrosis of the proximal tubule. Rhizopus species was detected in a perirenal white exudate taken 29days postoperatively, and the transplanted kidney was removed on postoperative day 45. The removed kidney showed fungal collection formation localized in the arteries and endotheliitis and embolization of the arteries. Renal damage caused by mucormycosis due to Rhizopus microspores was diagnosed. Mucormycosis is a fungal infection with a strong vascular affinity that develops along the vascular wall but does not extend beyond it. The infection leads to arterial infarction and organ failure. This report presents a rare case in which mucormycosis, which had been nested within the peritubular capillaries of the donor kidney, proliferated under immunosuppressive treatment but did so only in the artery, leading to infarction of the kidney. Neutrophilic collections within the PTC on one hour biopsy may be helpful in the early diagnosis of fungal infections.

Rhizopus sp. as Antagonist Fungi Against Ochratoxin a Production by Aspergillus carbonarius in raw cocoa beans

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is produced generally by the mold of the genera Aspergillus in cocoa beans. This study evaluated the antifungal activity of a strain of Rhizopus sp. on an OTA-producing mold and the biocontrol of the toxin production by this species in cocoa. HPLC detected OTA contents in cocoa beans from different post-harvest treatments. Mold species were identified by conventional microbiology and PCR-DGGE methods according to OTA contents. Suspensions calibrated at 106, and 104 conidia.mL-1 of Rhizopus sp. and A. carbonarius were co-inoculated in cocoa pods and incubated for 4 or 8 days in a climatic chamber. The results showed various fungal species of Aspergillus, Aureobasidium, Chrysonilia, Mucor, Penicillium, and Rhizopus. The number of fungal species obtained with PCR-DGGE was higher than that obtained on Petri dishes. Aspergillus carbonarius and A. niger were the main producers of OTA in the samples. The use of plastic crates as fermentation support in the presence of A. Carbonarius promoted a high production of OTA compared to wooden boxes and banana leaves. The co-inoculation of 104 spores.mL-1 of A. carbonarius and 106 spores.mL-1 of Rhizopus led to an OTA content in cocoa of 0.1 µg.kg-1 in 4 days of incubation while in 8 days, this concentration reached 5.6 µg.kg-1. Finally, the co-inoculation of cocoa with 106 spores.mL-1 of A. carbonarius and 104 spores.mL-1 of Rhizopus sp. led in 4 and 8 days of incubation to respective OTA contents of 36.3 and 6.2 µg.kg-1 of cocoa. Rhizopus could inhibit OTA production in cocoa.

A Case Series on Rhizopus homothallicus: An Emerging Zygomycete causing Mucormycosis

Mucormycosis is an acute opportunistic infection caused by various fungi belonging to the family Mucorales. The most common species causing this infection in humans are Rhizopus (R) species (spp.,) with R. oryzae and R. microsporus being the most prevalent. The authors here report a case series of infections caused by a very rare emerging zygomycete, Rhizopus homothallicus, in a tertiary care Institution in Southern India. The first case involved a 26-year-old male who developed cutaneous mucormycosis following trauma and surgery, with no underlying co-morbidities. The second case was a 40-year-old male, a diabetic, who had recovered from Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and subsequently developed COVID-19-associated rhino-orbital mucormycosis. The third case was a 36-year-old male with a known history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus who developed pulmonary mucormycosis. In all three cases, the authors isolated a very rare zygomycete that was identified as Rhizopus homothallicus. The first patient was successfully discharged, while the second and third patients succumbed to the infection on days 12 and 8, respectively. There has been an increased incidence of mucormycosis in all forms post-COVID-19, and fungi that were previously considered rare, such as R. homothallicus, are now being encountered more frequently. Microbiologists and clinicians must maintain vigilance for these cases to ensure appropriate and prompt diagnosis and treatment, as current evidence suggests that the mortality rate associated with R. homothallicus is lower compared to other Mucorales when diagnosed and treated early. The present case series was aimed to highlight the importance of identifying fungi to the species level in all situations and to emphasise that, with a larger population living with immunosuppression and the emergence of new pandemics like COVID-19 compared to previous years, there is a heightened risk of infections from lesser-known pathogenic fungi such as R. homothallicus.

Fungi Associated with the Deterioration of Zea Mays L. (Maize) From Market Stores in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

This study addressed the characterization of fungi associated with fungal contamination of maize. The diversity of fungal species responsible for maize spoilage necessitates effective control measures; however, their efficacy remains uncertain. Molecular identification of fungal populations provides essential data for predicting disease incidence and assessing potential risks. Accurate characterization of fungal species is crucial for identifying pathogenic strains in maize samples. Stored maize samples were obtained from four markets in Abeokuta- Kuto, Lafenwa, Olomore, and Osiele. Samples were labeled according to their locations. Fungal isolations were performed using the serial dilution method on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Microscopic identification was based on colony morphology. molecular and macroscopic analyses confirmed 100% fungal contamination in all maize samples. The predominant fungal genera identified included Aspergillus, Fusarium, Rhizopus, Penicillium, Mucor, and Cladosporium species. The prevalence of these fungi was consistent across all the sampled locations, highlighting their widespread occurrence in stored maize from Abeokuta markets. The significance of these results were discussed.

Biodiversity of Aspergillus Species and Their Mycotoxin Production Potential in Dry Meat.

This study aimed to examine fungi diversity in dried beef meat sold in Ekiti State, characterize the isolated fungi, and determine the aflatoxin-producing ability of the Aspergillus fungi in the samples. Dried beef meat was collected from different markets in Ekiti State and screened for the presence of filamentous fungi using molecular methods. Samples were cultured aseptically on potato dextrose agar (PDA) for fungi isolation, and molecular identification was performed using DNA extraction, Polymerase chain Reaction (PCR), ITS-1/ITS-4 primer pair, and nucleotide sequencing. The results obtained indicated a range of filamentous fungi genera including Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Penicillium, Fusarium, Cladosporium, Alternaria, and other fungi species contaminating the dried meat at (43%), (42%), (3%), (2%), (2%), (1%), and (7%), respectively. High incidences were recorded for Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus fumigatus in most of the screened samples. Aspergillus flavus accounted for (24.7%) of all the Aspergillus species isolated with the presence of the gene needed for aflatoxin production. The occurrences of these filamentous fungal species pose a cause for concern, as most of these fungal species are known producers of certain toxic substances. Maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis showed a high similarity index score, which indicated a good relationship between isolated Aspergillus Species and the closely related strains from GenBank, isolated from different sources and countries. The implication of this study is that consumer health may be at risk through exposure to contaminated dried meat.

Epidemiological and Mycological Features of MUCORMYCOSIS in Covid -19 Pandemic in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction: Incidence of mucormycosis was increased during COVID pandemic. Uncontrolled DM, usage of corticosteroids is an important risk factor for ROCM. Aims & Objectives: To find Clinical, Epidemiological profile of Covid associated Mucormycosis patients in a Tertiary care hospital in covid 2nd wave surge. To delineate clinical, Epidemiological profile of Covid associated mucormycosis patients. To identify Causes, Risk factors. To describe symptoms, signs & microbiological features of Covid associated Mucormycosis. Materials and Methods: A patient proforma was prepared for patients admitted from May to August 2021, collected their history of Covid symptoms, treatment taken and their biopsy samples were sent to microbiology laboratory, analyzed using KOH mount and culture on SDA, DRBC agar plates and LPCB results were noted Results: Out of 101 patients, 75.7%are males, 26.2% are females.71 patients were on steroid treatment of Covid. 45 were Renovo of DM, 56 were chronic diabetic. 24 patients had visionless, 64 had periorbital edema, 56 had facial pain, 15 had loss of eyemovements ,14 had hard palate necrosis, each patient having one or more signs. On KOH mount, 55 broad aseptate hyphae, 8 narrow aseptate hyphae, 3 yeasts. In 7 samples, no fungal elements were seen.28 were KOH positive & culture negative. On Culture, Rhizopus species was isolated in 43 patients, Aspergillus species were isolated in 8, Candida was isolated 3 patients, Demeticious fungi in 1 patient & “no fungal growth” in 40 patients. Conclusion: Covid -19 infection increased the risk of mucormycosis. Awareness of symptoms and signs, high clinical suspicion, prompt diagnosis, and early initiation of medical & surgical intervention are essential for successful outcome.

Molecular architecture of chitin and chitosan-dominated cell walls in zygomycetous fungal pathogens by solid-state NMR

Zygomycetous fungal infections pose an emerging medical threat among individuals with compromised immunity and metabolic abnormalities. Our pathophysiological understanding of these infections, particularly the role of fungal cell walls in growth and immune response, remains limited. Here we conducted multidimensional solid-state NMR analysis to examine cell walls in five Mucorales species, including key mucormycosis causative agents like Rhizopus and Mucor species. We show that the rigid core of the cell wall primarily comprises highly polymorphic chitin and chitosan, with minimal quantities of β-glucans linked to a specific chitin subtype. Chitosan emerges as a pivotal molecule preserving hydration and dynamics. Some proteins are entrapped within this semi-crystalline chitin/chitosan layer, stabilized by the sidechains of hydrophobic amino acid residues, and situated distantly from β-glucans. The mobile domain contains galactan- and mannan-based polysaccharides, along with polymeric α-fucoses. Treatment with the chitin synthase inhibitor nikkomycin removes the β-glucan-chitin/chitosan complex, leaving the other chitin and chitosan allomorphs untouched while simultaneously thickening and rigidifying the cell wall. These findings shed light on the organization of Mucorales cell walls and emphasize the necessity for a deeper understanding of the diverse families of chitin synthases and deacetylases as potential targets for novel antifungal therapies.

Mini-Review: The Distinct Carbohydrate Active Enzyme Secretome of Rhizopus spp. Represents Fitness for Mycelium Remodeling and Solid-State Plant Food Fermentation.

Rhizopus is a genus of filamentous fungi belonging to the Mucoromycota division. Rhizopus species produce a white, dense mycelium, which is used to create tempeh, a solid-state fermented Asian soybean product, that is gaining renewed attention as a proteinaceous plant food. The profile of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) of a fungus or group of fungi, particularly the secretome CAZymes profile, reflects adaptation to different lifestyles and habitats, and has a significant impact on fermentative capacity. This review examines the CAZymes profiles of Rhizopus species focusing on their implication for carbohydrate utilization and solid-state fermentation of plant materials. Through comprehensive genomic assessments and comparisons with other filamentous fungi, we particularly highlight how the unique CAZymes secretome profile is closely correlated with the taxonomy and ecological niches of Rhizopus species. We discuss how the CAZymes secretome capacity of Rhizopus species differs from other fungi and summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the specific CAZymes involved in the modification of carbohydrates in the fungal cell wall and in plant cell walls. We foresee that advanced genomic and proteomic technologies will be used to expand the biotechnology applications of Rhizopus spp.

Chemical Composition, Antifungal, Antioxidant, and Hemolytic Activities of Moroccan Thymus capitatus Essential Oil.

This study aimed to define the chemical composition of Moroccan Thymus capitatus essential oil, and to investigate its in vitro antioxidant and antifungal activities against human pathogenic fungi. Chemical analysis using GC-FID and GC-MS system revealed 28 constituents, representing 99 % of total compounds. Oxygenated monoterpenes represented the highest proportion (79.79 %), among which carvacrol (75.73 %) was the predominant compound, followed by linalol (2.26 %). Monoterpene hydrocarbons represented the second major fraction (16.29 %): within them, the predominant constituents were γ-terpinene (5,55 %), ρ-cymene (5,50 %), and β-caryophyllene (2.73 %). Antioxidant activity was performed by DPPH scavenging, β-carotene bleaching inhibition, and ferric reducing power. T. capitatus revealed pronounced DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50=110.53 μg mL-1), strong ferric reducing ability (EC50=644.4 μg mL-1), and a remarkable degree of protection against lipid peroxidation during β-carotene bleaching inhibition (IC50=251.76 μg mL-1). Antifungal activity was carried out against Candida, Aspergillus, and Rhizopus species by microdilution method. T. capitatus exhibited potent anticandidal activity (MIC=125-500 μg mL-1) and strong inhibition against filamentous fungi (MIC=250-500 μg mL-1). Its hemolytic activity against human erythrocytes had a low toxic effect at concentrations lower than 1250 μg mL-1. The useful antioxidant properties and broad antifungal effect of T. capitatus EO confirm its considerable potential for the food industry and for phytopharmaceutical production.

A fungus-based soil improvement using Rhizopus oryzae inoculum

This study demonstrates the efficacy of employing Rhizopus oryzae fungus inoculum as a potential solution to improve soil erodibility in coastal environments. A set of unconfined compression tests is conducted on Miami Beach sand treated with a R. oryzae inoculum. Our findings suggest that the R. oryzae fungus inoculum effectively improves the stability of sand by acting as a natural binding agent. This finding aligns with previous studies that utilized different Rhizopus species, such as Rhizopus oligosporus, to improve sand properties. However, a notable difference is observed; the R. oryzae-treated sand exhibits remarkable durability, maintaining significant strength over an extended period without water or dietary supply. The durability is likely attributable to the morphological characteristics of R. oryzae that extensively branches its mycelial network. This paper shares the new discovery to the bio-geotechnics research community, potentially allowing for the customization of soil improvement process by choosing between the fast-acting R. oligosporus and the longer-lasting R. oryzae.

Unsaturated fatty acid perturbation combats emerging triazole antifungal resistance in the human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus.

Contemporary antifungal therapies utilized to treat filamentous fungal infections are inhibited by intrinsic and emerging drug resistance. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop novel antifungal compounds that are effective against drug-resistant filamentous fungi. Here, we utilized an Aspergillus fumigatus cell-based high-throughput screen to identify small molecules with antifungal activity that also potentiated triazole activity. The screen identified 16 hits with promising activity against A. fumigatus. A nonspirocyclic piperidine, herein named MBX-7591, exhibited synergy with triazole antifungal drugs and activity against pan-azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates. MBX-7591 has additional potent activity against Rhizopus species and CO2-dependent activity against Cryptococcus neoformans. Chemical, genetic, and biochemical mode of action analyses revealed that MBX-7591 increases cell membrane saturation by decreasing oleic acid content. MBX-7591 has low toxicity in vivo and shows good efficacy in decreasing fungal burden in a murine model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. Taken together, our results suggest MBX-7591 is a promising hit with a novel mode of action for further antifungal drug development to combat the rising incidence of triazole-resistant filamentous fungal infections.IMPORTANCEThe incidence of infections caused by fungi continues to increase with advances in medical therapies. Unfortunately, antifungal drug development has not kept pace with the incidence and importance of fungal infections, with only three major classes of antifungal drugs currently available for use in the clinic. Filamentous fungi, also called molds, are particularly recalcitrant to contemporary antifungal therapies. Here, a recently developed Aspergillus fumigatus cell reporter strain was utilized to conduct a high-throughput screen to identify small molecules with antifungal activity. An emphasis was placed on small molecules that potentiated the activity of contemporary triazole antifungals and led to the discovery of MBX-7591. MBX-7591 potentiates triazole activity against drug-resistant molds such as A. fumigatus and has activity against Mucorales fungi. MBX-7591's mode of action involves inhibiting the conversion of saturated to unsaturated fatty acids, thereby impacting fungal membrane integrity. MBX-7591 is a novel small molecule with antifungal activity poised for lead development.

Microbial Assessment of Spoilt Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum Linn) Being Sold in Some Markets in Ondo City, Nigeria

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum Linn) are one of the most consumed fruits in Nigeria and the world at large but they are highly susceptible to microbial spoilage. Consumption of these spoilt tomatoes could increase the risk of food poisoning and also cause serious health issues which are of public health concern. This study was therefore designed to investigate the bacteria and fungi associated with spoilt tomatoes being sold in some selected markets in Ondo city. Different media (Nutrient, MacConkey, Mannitol Salt, Salmonella –Shigella, Eosin Methylene Blue, Sorbitol MacConkey and Potato Dextrose agar) were used for the determination of the total viable bacterial and fungal counts from the samples collected from Odoshida, Adeyemi and Iyalaje markets in Ondo using the pour plate technique. The isolates obtained after subculturing were characterized based on their cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. The total bacterial count ranged from 1.25 ×108 to 8.06 ×108cfu/mL while the total fungal count ranged from 2.75 ×105 to 5.65 ×106 cfu/mL. The identified bacteria obtained were Staphylococcus species, Proteus species, Salmonella species, Pseudomonas species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Shigella species, Enterobacter species and Bacillus species, while the fungi were Alternaria species, Penicillium species, Aspergillus species, and Rhizopus species. This study has shown that all the isolates obtained from the selected samples are of public health concerns because of their pathogenic and toxigenic nature; an indication that spoilt tomatoes ordinarily should not be consumed or consumed with utmost caution.