Ascopyrone P, a novel antibacterial derived from fungi.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the antimicrobial efficacy of ascopyrone P (APP), a secondary metabolite formed by the fungi Anthracobia melaloma, Plicaria anthracina, Plic. leiocarpa and Peziza petersi belonging to the order Pezizales.


RESULTS
In vitro testing using a well diffusion procedure showed that APP at a high concentration (approximately 5%) inhibited the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Using an automated microbiology reader, growth curve analysis showed that 2000-4000 mg l(-1) APP caused total or significant bacterial inhibition after incubation for 24 h at 30 degrees C. Against certain yeast strains, 1000- 2000 mg l(-1) APP enhanced growth, although at higher concentrations inhibition of some yeasts was observed. Clostridium and fungal strains were not sensitive to 2000 mg l(-1) APP. No significant cidal effect was observed after 2 h against Listeria monocytogenes or Escherichia coli. Results were identical whether the APP samples tested had been produced enzymatically or chemically.


CONCLUSIONS
At a level of 2000 mg l(-1), APP demonstrated growth inhibitory activity against a broad range of bacteria, but not yeasts or moulds.


CONCLUSIONS
A possible application for this novel natural antimicrobial is in food preservation, to control the growth of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria in raw and cooked foods. Effective dosage levels would be 500-4000 mg kg(-1), depending on food type. The efficacy, organoleptic and safety aspects of this compound in food still need to be assessed.
Thomas
L V
LV
Danisco Innovation, Beaminster, UK. linda.thomas@danisco.com
Yu
S
S
Ingram
R E
RE
Refdahl
C
C
Elsser
D
D
Delves-Broughton
J
J
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001203:Ascomycota / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism*; D005632:Fructose / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000378:metabolism; D005658:Fungi / Q000187:drug effects; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects*; D006094:Gram-Positive Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects*; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests / Q000379:methods
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D005632:Fructose; C048927:1,5-anhydrofructose