MOSP - Macao Scientific Publishers

Research Article

Suppression of Fusarium spp. in a maize and beans intercrop by soil fertility management

Sheila Okoth* and Elizabeth Siameto

Abstract: Fusarium root rot of maize and beans is a common problem in Taita District, Kenya causing reduction in yields to the small scale farmers. The pathogen attacks maize and beans at all growth stages and causing rot at the seedling stage, yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth and death if severe. Potentially effective crop rotations to maintain the pathogen at low levels are not currently acceptable in this region due to the small size of farms and prices of fungicides which are out of reach to the small scale farmer. This study is aimed at assessing alternatives to the use of fungicides in controlling root infection by Fusarium spp in maize and beans. Field trials were done in Taita District where agriculture contributes to 95% of household income with very little or no fertility inputs in farms. The following were tested in the trial: three kinds of fertilizers, cow manure and Trichoderma seed coating. Planting was done during the long and short rains. Soil and roots were collected from the rhizosphere during harvesting and assessed for inoculum density, while the roots were evaluated for incidence of infection by Fusarium spp. The most common species in both soil and roots were Fusarium oxysporum (Schlecht) Snyd. et Hans. and Fusarium sporotrichoides Sherb. Addition of soil amendments had a positive effect of reducing root infection and in some cases lowering inoculum density in the soil. Of the four fertilizers tested, Mavuno had the highest yield and was the most effective in suppressing root colonisation by Fusarium spp.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Fusarium spp, root infection, fertilizers, Trichoderma, soil amendments.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：763

Research Article

Antifungal properties of essential oils and some constituents to reduce foodborne pathogen

Yaouba Aoudou, Tatsadjieu Ngouné Léopold*, Jazet Dongmo Pierre Michel, Etoa François Xavier and Mbofung Carl Moses

Abstract: Investigations were conducted to evaluate the antifungal activities of the essential oils of Lippia rugosa, Plectranthus glandulosus, Clausena anisata and Vepris heterophylla and some essential oils compounds as citral, geraniol, nerol, citronellol, fenchone, linalool, 1,8 cineol, nerolidol, terpen 4-ol and -terpinolene on mycelia growth of different strains of Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium genus, common fungi causing spoilage of stored food product. The disc diffusion method was used to evaluate fungal growth inhibition at various concentrations. The strains of fungi exhibited similar susceptibilities (90 mm) to the action of L. rugosa essential oil and different susceptibilities (34 - 90 mm) to P. glandulosus, 0 to 44 mm to C. anisata and 0 to 30 mm to V. heterophylla essential oils. These inhibition halos varied from 0 to 84 mm according to each compound activity. The mycelial growth of fungal species tested was totally inhibited by MIC values ranged from 0.2 to 0.6 mg/ml for L. rugosa, 0.8 to 2 mg/ml for P. glandulosus and 0.5 to 1.2 mg/ml for citral, geraniol, nerol and citronellol which are the more active among the ten components tested. Results obtained indicate the possibility of exploiting L. rugosa, P. glandulosus essential oils and citral, geraniol, nerol, and citronellol to fight these strains responsible for biodeterioration of stored food.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Sanitizing agents, essential oils, antifungal activity, essential oil constituents.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：812

Research Article

Some sugar fungi in coastal sand dunes of Orissa, India

T. Panda

Abstract: Occurrence and distribution of sugar fungi was studied from soil and leaf litter in coastal sand dunes of Orissa for a period of two years covering three distinct seasons. Fungal succession of litter was also studied. Microbial isolation and soil analysis was performed using standard procedures. Maximum population density was observed in the rainy season followed by winter and lastly summer. Higher microbial populations were encountered in plantation soil than the barren sand. They corresponded to the fluctuation of prevailing temperature, moisture and total organic carbon content of the said habitat. A total of 8 species of sugar fungi were isolated of which soil and the leaf litter had a share of 8 species each. Maximum population of sugar fungi was recorded from coastal sand dunes with Casuarina plantation which can be due to less competition with other fungi.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Sugar fungi, coastal sand dune, fungi, leaf litter.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：759

Research Article

Overview on Echinophora platyloba, a synergistic anti-fungal agent candidate

Avijgan Majid*, Mahboubi Mohaddesse, Darabi Mahdi, Saadat Mahdi, Sarikhani Sanaz and Nazilla Kassaiyan

Abstract: Echinophora Platyloba DC. is one of the four native species of this plant in Iran. The aim of this five-step study was to investigate the antimicrobial properties of this plant. Dried aerial parts of the plant were extracted by ethanol 70% in percolator. The antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extract was evaluated against dermatophytes, Candida (C) albicans and gram positive bacteria by agar dilution method and microbroth dilution assay. Finally, the synergistic effect of Amphotericin B plus 5% ethanolic extract against C. albicans was determined by measuring MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) and MLC (minimum lethal concentration) values. Gram positive bacteria were resistant to the extract according to measurement of zones of inhibition; Trichophyton schenlaini and Trichophyton verucosum were sensitive to concentrations ³ 35 mg/ml, while other dermatophytes showed various susceptibilities to extract. MIC value of 5% ethanolic extract was 2 mg/ml against C. albicans using broth micro dilution method. In synergism assay, there was a 50% reduction in MIC and a 75% reduction in MLC values of the mixture of Amphotericin B and 5% ethanolic extract against C. albicans in comparison to Amphotericin B alone. Regarding this study, some degrees of synergy was recorded in the combination of Amphotericin B plus E. platyloba extract covering C. albicans which represented promising finding in antifungal therapy.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Amphotericin B, Candida albicans, Echinophora platyloba, ethanolic extract, traditional medicine.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：726

Research Article

Influence of bacteria and protozoa from the rumen of buffalo on in-vitro activities of anaerobic fungus Caecomyces sp. isolated from the feces of elephant

Ravinder Nagpal*, Anil Kumar Puniya, Jatinder Paul Sehgal and Kishan Singh

Abstract: Anaerobic fungal isolates Caecomyces sp. from the feces of elephant and Orpinomyces sp. from buffalo rumen were co- cultured in-vitro with rumen bacterial and protozoal fractions collected from buffalo to observe the possible fate of these fungi in the rumen, if inoculated as microbial-feed supplements. When co-cultured together or separately with rumen bacteria and protozoa, Caecomyces sp. was adversely affected. However, bacterial and protozoal counts were higher, compared to the counts when grown alone. Similar patterns of results were observed when Orpinomyces sp. was grown in co-culture with bacteria and protozoa separately as well as together, indicating that it is possibly the inhibitory action of bacteria and protozoa, and not inter-species competition, that affects the growth of fungi preventing them from attaining their full fibre-degrading potential. Conversely, although fungal counts were lowered during their co-culturing with bacterial and protozoal fractions, their co-culturing increased the FPase activity of the co-cultured fraction which could be the apparent reason for enhanced fibre degradation.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rumen microflora, anaerobic fungi, microbial interactions, fibre degradation.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：732

Research Article

Effects of storage conditions and tillage operation on some fungal diseases and yield of maize

G. O. Ihejirika*, M. I. Nwufo and S. O. Anagboso

Abstract: Maize (Zea mays L) belongs to the family Poaceae and it is mostly grown as food for man and feed for animal. A two-season experiment was conducted in 2006 and 2007, respectively, to determine the effect of storage condition and tillage operation on some fungal diseases and yield of maize. Analysis of variance indicated that storage condition significantly affected plant height (cm) 5.69; 6.26 at 9 weeks after planting. Tillage operation was statistically significant on leaf spot and blight infection at 9 weeks after planting at 5% probability level. Interaction of storage condition and tillage operation was also significant on blight infection at 9 weeks after planting 0.50; 0.58. Seeds from dehusked maize recorded highest plant height, leaf formation and grain yield, while shelled was lowest on both parameters in 2006 and 2007, respectively. However, the three storage conditions investigated were statistically similar on blight infection. Dehusked and undehusked plots recorded statistically similar result on leaf spot severity while shelled had the highest. Spot tilled plots recorded lowest leaf spot and blight severity but highest grain yields when zero-tilled plots (control) had the highest in all the field diseases investigated, but lowest grain yield in 2006 and 2007 respectively. Micro-organisms identified on infected leaves were Helminthosporium spp, Spermospora spp, while Fusarium spp, Penicilium spp, Blastomyces and Aspergillus species were identified with infected grains with Fusarium and Penicilium species occurring highest in 2006 and 2007, respectively.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Storage condition, tillage operation, fungal diseases, yield, maize.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：743

Research Article

Determination of effective dose of garlic for controlling seedborne fungal disease of tomato

M. M. Rashid, A. B. M. Ruhul Amin and F. Rahman

Abstract: Tomato seeds collected from farmer’s were treated with garlic tablet at concentration 1:3 w/v, 1:4 w/v, 1:5 w/v and 1:6 w/v for controlling seedborne fungal diseases. Seed health status of treated seeds was evaluated following blotter incubation method. Three different fungal pathogens viz., Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp. and Penicillium spp. were identified from seed samples by blotter incubation method. Garlic tablet at 1:3 w/v dose showed better performance in increasing seed germination and reducing prevalance of fungal pathogens over control treatment. The highest germination recorded was 71.25% at 1:3 w/v dose of garlic tablet which represents an increase of 11.25% over control. Germination percentage was increased 18.75% over control when treated seeds were sown in tray soil. Substantial importance in seed quality was noticed in reducing hard seed, damping off, blighted seedlings and tip over. In pot experiment, 1:3 w/v dose also performed best to yield the lowest percentage of hard seed, damping off, blighted seedlings, tip over and seedlings with highest seed germination.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Garlic, tomato, seed treatment, germination, seedborne pathogens, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：807

Research Article

Mycotic contamination of stockfish sold in Jos, Nigeria

S. A. Junaid*, F. Olarubofin and A. O. Olabode

Abstract: This study was aimed at isolating and identifying the fungi associated with stockfish contamination in Jos Metropolis. A total of 100 stockfish samples were randomly purchased from four markets namely, Terminus, Kwararafa, Katako and Gada biu in Jos town, Plateau State, Nigeria. The stockfish samples were assayed for fungal contamination and moisture content using standard procedures. All the stockfish samples were contaminated with fungi. Seven different fungi were found to be associated with the stockfish samples sold in the four different markets. The associated fungi were Mucor Spp, Asergillus flavus, Trichophyton verrucosum, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillin Spp and Rhizopus Spp. It was observed that Mucor Spp had the highest rate of occurrence among the isolated fungi. The moisture content was between 6 - 27%. Results from the study are useful in developing and establishing public health standards as consumption of these fungi exposes the consumers to the probable toxic metabolites produced by the fungi.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Mycotic contamination stockfish, cod.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：872

Research Article

Improved antimicrobial activity of the Tanzanian edible mushroom Coprinus cinereus (Schaeff) Gray by chicken manure supplemented solid sisal wastes substrates

Liberata Nyang’oso Mwita, Anthony Manoni Mshandete and Sylvester Leonard Lyantagaye*

Abstract: The Tanzanian edible mushroom species Coprinus cinereus was grown on sisal waste substrates supplemented with chicken manure with the aim to evaluate the effects of the chicken manure supplement on the antimicrobial activity of the mushroom’s extracts. Crude ethyl acetate extracts were prepared from the mushroom’s fruiting bodies harvested at pre-capping, capping and post capping stages, and the extracts were tested for antimicrobial activity, using the agar well method. The antimicrobial activity was observed only in capping and post capping stages of the mushrooms and the activity generally increased with increased percentage of manure supplementation. These findings show that Tanzanian edible C. cinereus mushroom contains antimicrobial compounds and chicken manure could be used in the cultivation of the mushroom to increase the production of active secondary metabolites, which could be used as lead compounds for discovery of new and more effective drugs against microbial infections.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Coprinus cinereus, antimicrobial, chicken manure.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：823

Research Article

Identification of a restriction endonuclease (SacC1) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Mukaram Shikara

Abstract: SacC1 is a novel restriction endonuclease from Saccharomyces cerevisiae that recognizes the palindromic sequence 5’CTCGAC3’ cleaving both DNA strands upstream and downstream of its recognition sequence and makes a staggered cut at the distance of five bases from the recognition sequence on the upper strand and at the seventh base on the complementary strand. It shares similar characteristics with Sac I from Streptomyces achromogenes as well as Sst1 from Streptomyces Stanford and Psp124B1 from Pseudomonas species. It has been purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, dialysis, and gel filtration using phosphocellulose, DEAE-cellulose and Sephadex G-100 with an optimal pH range (7.5-8.5), active at 37°C and dependent on Mg +2 or Mn2+ which increases its activity by 4- and 2-folds, respectively, while other cations decrease its activity to some extents. Cleavage on both sides of the recognition sequence is characteristic of Type IIB systems but all IIB enzymes studied so far have been found to recognize discontinuous sites and a distinctive subunit/domain organization that is not present in the SacC1 enzyme. There are similarities between SacC1 and other homing endonucleases belonging to the LAGLIDADG family such as a requirement for Mg2+ (or Mn2+) for cleavage to take place, optimal activity at alkaline pH and stimulation of the reaction by moderate concentrations of the monovalent cation.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Purification, recognition site, restriction enzyme, Saccharomyces, Streptomyces, Type IIB.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：795

Research Article

FLAG tag module for PCR based gene targeting

Rajeev Ranjan, Sumit Kumar Verma and Shakil Ahmed*

Abstract: Epitope tagging of yeast proteins has become an efficient tool for biochemical analysis of protein of interest. The epitope-tagged proteins can be used for western blotting, immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence experiments without the need to raise specific antibodies, thus saving considerable time and expense. We have constructed plasmid containing FLAG tag with kanMX6 module, which allows selection of G418-resistant cells in yeast. The same set of primers that amplify module constructed by Bahler et al. (1998) can be used to amplify the FLAG tag module constructed in this study. The linear DNA fragment containing FLAG tag module with flanking homology region of gene of interest can be efficiently integrated on the yeast genome, using homologous recombination. We have successfully FLAG tag wat1/pop3 gene at its chromosomal locus and confirmed by western blot analysis. This construct can be very useful for generating C terminal tagging of desired genes at its normal chromosomal locus without interfering with their function.[...] Read More.

Keywords: S. pombe, epitope tagging, FLAG tag, pFA6a plasmid, wat1/ pop3.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：767

Research Article

Evidence of antagonistic interactions between rhizosphere and mycorrhizal fungi associated with Dendrocalamus strictus (Bamboo)

Rohit Sharma,*, Ram .C. Rajak and Akhilesh .K. Pandey

Abstract: The paper deals with interactions of some microfungal strains isolated from rhizosphere soils from three different sites with ectomycorrhizal fungus Cantharellus tropicalis mycelium grown in vitro on agar plates. The rhizospheric fungi were isolated from 3 different sites of bamboo forest and grown against Cantharellus. The cross inoculation method showed that C. tropicalis was highly active against some fungi, thus resulting in different types and strength of interactions. Overgrowth was the most common interaction (45%), followed by inhibition at distance (29%), intermingling (17%) and contact inhibition (13%). The competitive strength of the ectomycorrhizal fungus was high and only affected by some fast growing sterile mycelia, an unidentified fungus and Trichoderma viride.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cantharellus, ectomycorrhiza, mycorrhizal systems, biological control, soil micro fungi.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：760

Research Article

Production cellulase by different co-culture of Aspergillus niger and Tricoderma viride from waste paper

Ali A. Juwaied, Suhad Adnan and Ahmed Abdulamier Hussain Hussain Al-Amiery*

Abstract: In Iraq, there is attempts to transfer the various industrial carbon waste to veterinary proteins depend on microorganisms by using of chemical process. Five different co-culture combinations (1:1 ratio, 1 × 106 conidia)of Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma viride, mixing of A. niger and T. viride, in 24 and 48 h old monocultures of Aspergillus similar mixing of A. in 24 and 48 h old monoculture of Trichoderma and the monocultures of both were evaluated for their potential performance of cellulases production. The study indicates that the cellulases obtained from compatible mixed cultures simultaneous mixing of both fungi have more enzyme activity as compared to their pure cultures and other combinations. The fermentation experiments were performed in solid stat fermentation (SSF). Incubation time, carbon sources and initial pH of fermentation medium was optimized with simultaneous mixed culture. It was revealed that the newspaper at pH = 5 and 40°C was the best source of carbon for the enhanced production of cellulase in the compatible mixed culture experiments after 8 days of incubation with 5.70 U/ml. Based on the reported results, it may be concluded that industrial carbon waste can be a potential substrate for production of cellulase, incorporation of co-culturing A. niger and T. viride. The aim of this work is to produce of Cellulase from waste paper and reduce the pollution.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Aspergillus niger, Tricoderma viride, cellulase, culture.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：763

Research Article

A specific inhibitory protein to a restriction enzyme from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Mukaram Shikara*

Abstract: A specific protein inhibitor for the restriction enzyme (SacC1) has been purified from Saccharomyces cerevisiae approximately 21,000 fold and its inhibitory properties have been characterized. The isoelectric points (pI) of SacCI and its inhibitor are 9.0 and 5.22, respectively. The molecular weight of SacC1, the inhibitor and SacC1-inhibitor complex were estimated by gel filtration on a Sephadex G-100 column to be 64,000, 32,000 and 85,000, respectively. The inhibitor protein inhibits SacC1 catalytic activities efficiently, but has no effect on other restriction enzymes tested. Inhibition does not occur unless SacC1 enzyme is exposed to the inhibitor protein prior to the reaction of the enzyme with DNA. The inhibitory activity is independent of temperature. The inhibition increased linearly with the addition of inhibitor to various amounts of SacC1, up to 85% inhibition. The slope of inhibition was constant irrespective of the initial amount of SacC1 and Ki value of 3.45 x 10-12 was obtained. The inhibitor interacts strongly with SacC1 and this interaction could increase the stability of the complex, possibly manifesting itself as SacC1 decreases in the dissociation rate due to the electrostatic attraction between the two groups or the stability may increase by potentially stronger electrostatic interaction. The conformational specificity between SacC1 and its inhibitor seems to be essential for their interaction. The extremely strong affinity of the inhibitor to SacC1 is remarkable and stronger than the affinity of several restriction enzymes.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, inhibitor, protein, restriction enzyme, yeast, purification, Ki.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：748

Research Article

Interactions between multiple fungi isolated from two bark beetles, Dendroctonus brevicomis and Dendroctonus frontalis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Thomas S. Davis, Richard W. Hofstetter, Kier D. Klepzig, Jeffrey T. Foster and Paul Keim

Abstract: Antagonism between the fungal symbionts of bark beetles may represent a biologically significant interaction when multiple beetle species co-occur in a host tree. Since high density bark beetle populations rapidly and dramatically shift forest characteristics, patterns of competition between the obligate fungal associates of sympatric bark beetle species may have broad ecological effects. Primary and competitive resource acquisition between allopatric and sympatric isolates of mutualist fungi associated with the bark beetles Dendroctonus frontalis and Dendroctonus brevicomis were investigated. Growth assays at multiple temperatures suggest that primary resource acquisition by fungi growing in the absence of competitors varies regionally, and that optimal growth rate is likely to correspond to average summertime maximum temperatures. In competition assays, interactions were asymmetric between fungi isolated from sympatric beetle populations and fungi isolated from allopatric beetle populations: sympatric isolates out-competed allopatric isolates. However, competition between fungi from beetle populations in sympatry was found to be equal. These studies are the first to investigate interactions between the mycangial fungi of multiple Dendroctonus species, and the results suggest that competition is likely to occur when the mycangial fungi of multiple beetle species occur together.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Allopatric, competition, coexistence, mutualism, mutualist, mycangial fungi, sympatric.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：750

Research Article

Solid state fermentation of Jatropha curcas kernel cake: Proximate composition and antinutritional components

M. A. Belewu* and R. Sam

Abstract: Five fungi (Aspergillus niger, Penicillium chrysogenum, Rhizopus oligosporus, Rhizopus nigricans and Trichoderma longibrachitum) were used in the fermentation of Jatropha curcas kernel cake for a 7 days period in a completely randomized design model. The results revealed significant increase in the crude protein content of all the fungi treated samples with Aspergillus niger and T. longbrachitum treated cake recorded higher value compared to other treated samples. There was no significant difference in the crude fiber content among all the samples. With the exception of ether extract content of sample treated with Rhizopus nigricans which was similar to that of the control (untreated sample) other samples showed lower significant values than the untreated (control) sample. Contrarily, the ash content was significantly lower in the control sample compared to other fungi treated samples. The content of the trypsin inhibitor was highest (18.6 mg/kg) in the control but reduced significantly in the fungi treated samples (6.50 - 8.23). The lectin, saponins, phytate and phorbolester contents followed similar trend. It could be concluded from this study that solid state fermentation of Jatropha kernel cake detoxified and inactivate almost 100% of the antinutrient contents expect phorbolester to a tolerable level in the A. niger treated sample.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Jatropha curcas kernel cake, proximate composition, trypsin inhibitor, lectin, phytic acid, saponins, phorbolester.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：764

Research Article

Studies on the mycoflora associated with sugarcane factory waste and pollution of River Nile in upper Egypt

A.H.M. El-Said*, T. H. Sohair and A. G. El-Hadi

Abstract: Sixty-nine species and four varieties which belong to twenty eight genera of terrestrial fungi were recovered from polluted and nonpolluted water and mud samples on glucose and cellulose-Czapek's agar at 28˚C. The most common species from the two substrates on the two types of media were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Fusarium oxysporum, Mycosphaerella tassiana and Penicillium chrysogenum. Twenty-six species belonging to 14 genera were isolated from polluted (26 species and 14 genera) and nonpolluted (17 and 10) mud samples on sabouraud’s dextrose agar at 28°C. The most prevalent species were Acremonium retiulum, Alternaria alternata, A. flavus, Aphanoascus fulvescens, Aspergillus terreus, Aphanoascus sp., Penicillium funiculosum and Stachybotrys chartarum.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Pollution, River Nile, terrestrial fungi and keratinophilic fungi.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：770

Research Article

Antifungal activity of extracts obtained from actinomycetes

Harpreet Sharma and Leena Parihar*

Abstract: In the present investigation an attempt has been done on isolation of actinomycetes from the soil, extracting the antifungal compounds from these isolated actinomycetes and then testing the extract against the growth of Alternaria sps, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium sps, and Rhizopus stolonifer. During the investigation it was found that nearly all the extracts were effective against the test fungi and the mycelial growth of fungi is inversely proportional to the concentration of extract.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antifungal activity, actinomycetes extracts, plant pathogenic fungi.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：781

Research Article

Media studies on Myrothecium roridum Tode: A potential biocontrol agent for water hyacinth

Wahab Oluwanisola Okunowo*, George Olabode Gbenle, Akinniyi Adediran Osuntoki and Adedotun Adeyinka Adekunle

Abstract: Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is a noxious aquatic weed in Nigeria and many parts of the world. A potential mycoherbicidal agent for the control has been identified recently as Myrothecium roridum Tode. The best media for in-vitro propagation was investigated using seven culture media; potato dextrose agar (PDA), malt extract agar (MEA), potato sucrose agar (PSA), sabouraud agar (SA), potato carrot agar (PCA), Czapek-Dox agar (ZA) and a semi artificial diet, which included the material from the fungal host’s plant (WHA). The effect of nitrogen sources (ammonium chloride, sodium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, sodium glutamate and glutamine) and pH on the growth of the fungus was also determined. The mycelia growth was assessed by diameter measurement on agar plates and the conidial yield was measured with a Neubauer hemocytometer slide. The mycelia growth was maximum on PSA and minimum on ZA. The conidial yield was highest on MEA. The mycelia growth and spore concentration of the fungus were highest on sodium glutamate and glutamine respectively, when used as nitrogen sources. The optimal growth pH was 5.5.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Media, Mycoherbicide, Myrothecium roridum Tode, nitrogen sources.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：796

Research Article

Identification of Candida glabrata and Candida parapsilosis strains by polymerase chain reaction assay using RPS0 gene fragment

Emira Noumi,*, Mejdi Snoussi, Maria del Pilar Vercher, Eulogio Valentin, Lucas Del Castillo and Amina Bakhrouf

Abstract: Two Candida species were identified by the amplification of the RPS0 gene intron fragment. For this, two pairs of primers were used in PCR analysis performed with genomic DNA of clinical isolates of Candida. The primers designed are highly specific for their respective species and produce amplicons of the expected sizes and fail to amplify any DNA fragment from the other species tested. For Candida glabrata, the size of the amplicon was 406 pb and 150 bp for C. parapsilosis. The designed primers were able to amplify all C. glabrata isolates. One of three C. parapsilosis strains was confirmed as C. orthopsilosis, when we used the designed oligonucleotides. The used primers cannot amplify the other Candida species such as C. albicans. These results indicate that sequences of intron genes can be useful to specifically identify Candida strains by PCR. This molecular identification will be considered as an early identification of Candida species responsible for all candidiasis.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Candida glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. orthopsilosis, PCR- identification, RPS0 intron.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：762

Research Article

Effect of some alternative medicine and biological factors on Candida albicans in Saudi Arabia

Amany H. Aboellil* and Majdah M. Y. Al-Tuwaijri

Abstract: Yeast of the genus Candida has been recognized as important microorganisms responsible for Nosocomial fungemia. Six isolates of clinical Candida albicans isolated from patients and studied by electrophoretic karyotyping of chromosomal DNA by pulsed field gel electrophoresis. Six chromosal DNA profiles were more or less identical. Natural fungicide nystatin is more effective on C. albicans growth than the other synthesitic miconazole nitrate and clotrimazole. The minimum inhibitory concentration for 90% growth of C. albicans (MIC90) of nystatin is1500 unit/ml. The antimicrobial activities of alternative and traditional medicine in Saudi Arabia were evaluated against C. albicans growth. Natural acetic acid, plant extract, charcoal and Elshab are used as natural drug for Candidiasis. The percent of 36% Concentration of acetic acid in media causes maximum inhibition of C. albicans growth. There are direct relation between acetic acid concentrations and inhibition zones. Increase or decrease of pH inhibits the growth of C. albicans. The ideal pH for inhibiting C. albicans growth is pH 10. The combination of Salvadora persica extract (Meswak) and Elshab (KAl(SO4)2) in concentration of (28.5 + 12.75 mg/ml, respectively), have an antimicrobial effect on C. albicans growth (0.01 g/10ml of media). Charcoal in 20 mg/ml concentration or Lawsonia alba extract (Henna) in 250 mg/ml is the ideal concentration used for stop growth of C. albicans. The susceptibility of yeast to the previous alternative medicine shows that, it could be used in treating candidiasis resulting from different strains of C. albicans instead of commercial antibiotics used, without any adverse side effects. Also, it is an attempt to stop development of multidrug resistance organism. Aspergillus fumigatus performed a good tool as biocontrol for C. albicans which caused infections mainly candidiasis. Both are isolated as clinical isolates of nosocomial of infected patients.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Candida albicans, chromosomal DNA, Lawsonia alba, Salvadora persica, antibiotics, biocontrol.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：764

Research Article

Antagonism of Trichoderma farzianum isolates on soil borne plant pathogenic fungi from Embu District, Kenya

E. N. Siameto, S. Okoth*, N. O. Amugune, and N. C. Chege

Abstract: Species in the genus Trichoderma are important as commercial source of several enzymes and as biofungicides/growth promoters. The most common biological control agents of the genus are strains of T. harzianum, T. viride and T. viriens. In this study, sixteen selected isolates of T. harzianum from different land use types in Embu, Kenya were tested for anatognism against five soil borne phytopathogenic fungi (Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium sp, Fusarium graminearum, F. oxysporum f. sp phaseoli and F. oxysporum f. sp Lycopersici) using dual culture assay and through production of non-volatile inhibitors. Seven isolates were further characterized using RAPD-PCR procedure to determine genetic variability. All T. harzianum isolates had considerable antagonistic effect on mycelial growth of the pathogens in dual cultures compared to the controls. Maximum inhibitions occurred in Pythium sp-055E interactions (73%).The culture filtrates obtained from Czapek’s liquid medium reduced the dry weight (mg) of the mycelia significantly while those from the potato dextrose broth showed minimum inhibition growth. Pythium sp was inhibited the most compared to other pathogens. Genetic similarities generated using Jacquard’s coefficient of similarity ranged from 0.231 between isolates 055E and 011E to 0.857 between isolates 010E and 015E. The technique of RAPD was efficient in demonstrating the DNA polymorphism in the isolates of T. harzianum tested showing intraspecific genetic variability. Since all T. harzianum isolates evaluated were effective in controlling colony growth of the soil borne pathogens both in dual cultures and in culture filtrates they could be tried as a broad spectrum biological control agent in the green house and under field conditions.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Trichoderma harzianum, growth antagonism, genetic similarity, RAPDs.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：726

Research Article

Molecular cloning and characterization of STL1 gene of Debaryomyces hansenii

Juan Carlos González-Hernández

Abstract: Debaryomyces hansenii is often found in salty environments. This yeast species is not only halotolerant, but also halophilic. Its genome sequence is known completely, but the mechanisms behind its halotolerance are poorly understood. It was compared to the STL1 protein sequence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae against the translated sequence from the D. hansenii genome sequence database released by Génolevure. An ORF (DEHA0E01122g) was found with 54% homology and 39% identity with Stl1p from S. cerevisiae. DhSTL1 was heterologously expressed successfully in a S. cerevisiae (BY4741) wild type and in another strain lacking its own system for the glycerol transport (STL1) gene. The DhSTL1 gene in transformed S. cerevisiae strains showed a slight but significant difference in the doubling times in growth curves obtained in liquid YNB-ura medium, with glycerol as carbon source. DhSTL1 gene in transformed stl1 yeast strain showed phenotype growth at pH 7.5 under salt stress conditions (glucose as carbon source). The kinetic parameters of transport and glycerol accumulation conferred by DhSTL1 in the S. cerevisiae transformant strains did not show significant differences. An increase in the transcript level of DhSTL1 gene in the presence of saline stress at pH 5.6; whereas, at 7.5 pH, it was expressed in all evaluated conditions.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Debaryomyces hansenii, glycerol, transport, salt tolerance.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：773

Research Article

Study on combined antimicrobial activity of some biologically active constituents from wild Moringa peregrina Forssk

M. A. Abdel-Rahman Tahany*, A. K. Hegazy, A. Mohsen Sayed, H. F. Kabiel, T. El-Alfy and S. M. El-Komy

Abstract: Three plants were used in this study: Moringa pregrina, Achillea fragrantissima and Coleome droserifolia. Six active constituents were separated from n-hexane and ethyl acetate fractions of Moringa pregrina. These active constituents were lupeol acetate, -amyrin, -amyrin, -sitosterol, - sitosterol-3-O- -D-glucoside and apignin were assayed individually and in combination against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. All constituents were proved to be more antibacterial than antifungal agents. Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium solani were completely resistant to all constituents. -amyrin was the most effective antibacterial compound. The least relative activity was achieved by -sitosterol against Bacillus subtilis compared to ampicillin. Reasonable antifungal activity was recorded in case of lupeol acetate, -amyrin and -amyrin, while -sitosterol and -sitosterol-3-O- -D-glucoside, revealed no antifungal activity. Apignin missed both antifungal and antibacterial activities. Low MICs were detected by -amyrin, -amyrin and -sitosterol-3-O- -D-glucoside against all tested bacteria. Concerning fungi, -sitosterol and - sitosterol- 3-O- -D-glucoside showed no antimycotic activity. Lupeol acetate, -amyrin and -amyrin, however, have slightly high MICs for all tested dermatophytic fungi compared to that of fluconazole. Among ninety nine assayed combination mixtures, thirty seven synergistic combination mixtures were detected which exerts 37 synergisms against different pathogens with FICI less than 0.5, which indicates high efficacy of combination mixtures over monotherapy treatments.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Combined antimicrobial therapy, active constituents, Moringa peregrina, Achillea fragrantissima, Coleome droserifolia.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：776

Research Article

Isolation and characterization of a fungal isolate for phosphate solubilization and plant growth promoting activity

Varsha Nenwani, Pratima Doshi, Tithi Saha and Shalini Rajkumar*

Abstract: A fungal species namely F1 was isolated from the rhizosphere on the basis of its ability to form halos (zone of solubilization) on Pikovskaya’s agar. F1 was assessed for phosphate solubilization, titratable acidity (TA), gluconate concentration and change in pH over incubation period of 21 days and other plant growth promoting traits. F1 solubilized maximum inorganic phosphorus (662 g P ml-1) from tricalcium phosphate present in the Pikovskaya’s broth on 18th day. The TA followed a similar trend as that of P solubilized, except on day 21 when the value that for TA was highest. A similar pattern was also observed with production of gluconic acid, for which a constant value of 8.96 × 10-4 g% was observed till 18th day of incubation. However, gluconic acid was not the only organic acid produced in the culture broth, because the amount of gluconic acid produced did not relate to the high values observed for P solubilized and TA. Efficiency of the F1 to solubilize phosphate from organic reserves was determined by performing assays of phosphatases and phytases. The culture F1 produced 1.86 and 1.90 EU of enzymes alkaline and acid phosphatase, respectively and phytase activity was 28 mU. The concentration of catechol and hydroxymate type siderophores produced by F1 was 4.50 and 4.55 µgml-1 respectively and it also produced 11.45 µgml-1 of IAA which is significantly high. Some fungi may possess traits associated with biocontrol of plant pathogens such as production of enzyme chitinase which was 0.037 EU for F1. On the basis of cultural and microscopic features, the isolate F1 could be Absidia spp. and has potential of being a competent bioinoculant.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Phosphate solubilization, bioinoculant, plant growth promoting fungus (PGPF).

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：757

Research Article

Intergeneric protoplast fusion of yeast for high ethanol production from cheese industry waste â€“ Whey

Krishnamoorthy, R. Narayanan*, K. Vijila and K. Kumutha

Abstract: In this study, Intergeneric protoplast fusion of the yeast cultures Viz., Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Kluyveromyces marxianus was carried out for enhancing production to ethanol temperature tolerance and lactose utilizing characters in a single stain. S. cerevisiae (Parent 1) has ethanol tolerance, whereas, K. marxianus (Parent 2) is temperature tolerant and also has lactose utilizing capacity. Twelve fused cultures were obtained by protoplast fusion. Fused cultures recorded higher DNA content than the parent strains, which showed complementary banding pattern of two parental Strains. SDS-PAGE confirms the presence of HSP 70 in the fused culture, which is responsible for temperature tolerance. Fermentation of cheese whey was carried out with two parental and fused cultures. The results revealed that the ethanol production was higher with fused culture (12.5%, with 18.09 g/l of biomass) after 72 h of fermentation. Parent 1 showed poor growth on the cheese whey medium, but growth of the Parent 2 was inhibited when the ethanol production reached 6%.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Marker selection, protoplast fusion, RAPD, SDS-PAGE, whey.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：808

Research Article

Utilization of experimental design and surface response methodology to study the influence of glucose and ammonium sulphate in the chlamydosporulation of Candida albicans FMT123-05

João Vicente Braga de Souza*, Carolina Talhari, Dieter Reinel and Sinésio Talhari

Abstract: The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of glucose and ammonium sulphate in the chlamydosporulation of Candida albicans FMT123-05. Different media were produced and inoculated with C. albicans FMT123- 05. The glucose and ammonium sulphate content were defined using an experimental design (22 + star). Glucose content inhibits C. albicans chlamydosporulation two times more than ammonium sulphate. The mathematical model and the surface response demonstrated that the total absence of carbon and nitrogen sources was the best condition for chlamydosporulation of C. albicans 123-05 in the experimental conditions.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Chlamydosporulation, glucose, ammonium sulphate, experimental design.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：757

Research Article

Influence of culture media on growth, colony character and sporulation of fungi isolated from decaying vegetable wastes

G. Sharma and R. R. Pandey*

Abstract: The mycelial growth rate, colony character and sporulation pattern of ten fungal isolates, grown on three different culture media viz., Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Czapek’s Dox + Yeast Extract Agar (CYA) and Lignocellulose Agar (LCA) were observed after seven days of incubation at 25±1°C. The colony diameter, culture characteristics (texture, surface and reverse colouration, zonation) and sporulation of selected test fungi were greatly influenced by the type of growth medium used. LCA exhibited comparatively higher mycelial growth in six test fungi, whereas all the ten isolates revealed heavy sporulation on this culture medium. Penicillium sp. and Acremonium kiliense exhibited maximum colony growth on PDA, while Chaetomium funicola and Fusarium oxysporum showed highest growth on CYA medium. These results will be useful for fungal taxonomic studies.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Mycelial growth, colony character, sporulation, culture media.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：758

Research Article

Heat resistance of genus Byssochlamys isolated from bottled raphia palm wine

E. I. Eziashi*, I. B. Omamor, C. E. Airede, C. V. Udozen and N. Chidi

Abstract: Bottled raphia palm wine was cultured in a laboratory medium amended with 0.5% acetic acid (pH 4.8). Two cultures of identified heat resistant yeast (HRY) and one unidentified yeast species were isolated. Cultures of the isolates grown on potato dextrose agar for 10 days at 26°C, survived pasteurization temperature at 80°C for 20 min and 85°C for 15 min. Of these HRY identified were Byssochlamys nivea, Byssochlamys zollerniae and one unidentified yeast species. To determine the source of contamination, fresh un-pasteurized Raphia palm wine was cultured. Result revealed that, colonies of the three HRY were higher compared with the pasteurized Raphia palm wine. Frequencies of occurrence at 80°C, 85°C and in un-pasterurized raphia palm wine were B. nivea 15.2, 6.1 and 24.2%; B. zollerniae 6.1, 3.0 and 12% and yeast species 9.1, 6.1 and 18.2% respectively. The thermal destruction time were B. nivea 90°C for 15 min, B. zollerniae 90°C for 5 min and yeast species 90°C for 10 min. The result indicates they are acid tolerant and thermophilic yeasts with B. nivea having the highest frequency of occurrence.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Culture, pasteurization, spoilage, identification, thermophilic.

2010, 9(1), 1-6;

Full text

Download：782

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Advanced Journal of Microbiology Research