An antifungal compound produced by Bacillus subtilis YM 10-20 inhibits germination of Penicillium roqueforti conidiospores.
OBJECTIVE
To identify and characterize an antifungal compound produced by Bacillus subtilis YM 10-20 which prevents spore germination of Penicillium roqueforti.


RESULTS
The antifungal compound was isolated by acid precipitation with HCl. This compound inhibited fungal germination and growth. Identification by HPLC and mass spectrometry analysis showed high similarity to iturin A. Permeabilization and morphological changes in P. roqueforti conidia in the presence of the inhibitor were revealed by fluorescence staining and SEM, respectively. CONCLUSOINS: The iturin-like compound produced by B. subtilis YM 10-20 permeabilizes fungal spores and blocks germination.


CONCLUSIONS
Fluorescence staining in combination with flow cytometry and scanning electron microscopy are efficient tools for assessing the action of antifungal compounds against spores. Iturin-like compounds may permeabilize fungal spores and inhibit their germination.
Chitarra
G S
GS
Department of Agrotechnology and Food Sciences, Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Wageningen University, The Netherlands.
Breeuwer
P
P
Nout
M J R
MJ
van Aelst
A C
AC
Rombouts
F M
FM
Abee
T
T
D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000494:pharmacology; D001412:Bacillus subtilis / Q000378:metabolism*; D011232:Chemical Precipitation; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000494:pharmacology; D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid / Q000379:methods; D006358:Hot Temperature; D006851:Hydrochloric Acid; D013058:Mass Spectrometry / Q000379:methods; D008853:Microscopy / Q000379:methods; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning / Q000379:methods; D010407:Penicillium / Q000187:drug effects / Q000254:growth & development / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D013172:Spores, Fungal / Q000187:drug effects
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D002784:Cholesterol; D006851:Hydrochloric Acid