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Inhibition of Aspergillus parasiticus NRRL 2999 by pollen and propolis extracts
1Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Selçuk University, Konya, Turkey. mozcan@selcuk.edu.tr
Abstract:
The inhibitory effects on mycelial growth of Aspergillus parasiticus strain NRRL 2998 of pollen and propolis extracts from different regions of Turkey were investigated in culture media. The least active concentration towards the tested fungus was 2% of both extracts. But, the inhibitory effects of all propolis extracts on mycelial growth were higher when compared with pollen extracts. While the effect of a 5% level of Antakya propolis extract increased with increasing incubation period, the antifungal effect of pollen extract from the same region on mycelial growth was less than that of the control group. As a result, none of the extracts tested completely inhibited mycelial growth. The highest inhibition rate was established at the 5% level of Taşkent and Alanya propolis samples.
Insights
Propolis and pollen extracts from Turkey were tested for antifungal activity against Aspergillus parasiticus. Propolis extracts showed higher inhibition of fungal growth than pollen extracts, with Taşkent and Alanya samples being most effective.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Food Science
Background:
- Aspergillus parasiticus is a significant fungal pathogen that contaminates food products.
- Natural compounds from pollen and propolis are explored for their antimicrobial properties.
- Geographical origin can influence the chemical composition and efficacy of natural extracts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of Turkish pollen and propolis extracts against Aspergillus parasiticus.
- To compare the efficacy of pollen versus propolis extracts in inhibiting mycelial growth.
- To identify specific regional extracts with the highest inhibitory potential.
Main Methods:
- Mycelial growth inhibition assays were performed using culture media.
- Various concentrations (starting from 2%) of pollen and propolis extracts were tested.
- Incubation periods were varied to assess time-dependent effects.
- Inhibition rates were compared to a control group.
Main Results:
- Propolis extracts generally exhibited stronger inhibitory effects on Aspergillus parasiticus mycelial growth compared to pollen extracts.
- A concentration of 2% for both extract types showed the least inhibitory activity.
- The highest inhibition rates were observed at a 5% concentration of propolis extracts from Taşkent and Alanya.
- One pollen extract (Antakya) showed less inhibition than the control group, while its corresponding propolis extract's efficacy increased with incubation time.
Conclusions:
- Turkish propolis extracts demonstrate significant antifungal potential against Aspergillus parasiticus.
- Pollen extracts show limited efficacy, with some regional variations.
- Specific propolis samples from Taşkent and Alanya are promising candidates for controlling Aspergillus parasiticus contamination.
