Bioactive compound from Aspergillus terreusDMTMGK004 synergistically contributes towards potential anti-pathogenicity

This study focused on the evaluation of fungal compound for their anti-pathogenic potential against respiratory pathogens. Soil samples were collected from various geographical regions in Madurai, fungal strain was isolated and identified as Aspergillus terreusDMTMGK004 (MGK004). Secondary metabolites were extracted and evaluated for antioxidant potential. It exhibited significantly high anti-proliferative property against gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cell lines. Antimicrobial activity against Gram positive (Streptococcus pneumoniae) and Gram negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae) respiratory pathogens were analysed and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined. Furthermore, the time-killing assay illustrated that the metabolite eliminates 50% of the vegetative cells within few hours of the treatment. From the spectral data, the major functional groups present in the compound were determined as carbonyl group and phenolic hydroxyl group which contribute towards its bioactivity. The compound significantly depreciates the production of extracellular polysaccharides which results in the weakening of biofilm architecture and resistance towards serum killing and phagocytosis. It also induced cell membrane damage which leads to protein and nucleic acid leakage. Hence, the results of the present study could provide a better insinuation towards the formulation of new drug targeting respiratory pathogens. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The ubiquitous fungi Aspergillus terreus is well known for its secondary metabolite production. The fungus was evaluated for production of antagonistic molecule to reduce the growth of infectious agents causing respiratory infections. It exhibited the biological means of antioxidant, anti-proliferative and anti-pathogenic compound production. The compound exhibits killing effect against respiratory pathogens within two hours. It induced cell membrane damage leading to protein and nucleic acid leakage. It significantly reduced the production of extracellular polysaccharides. The results provide needed information to design innovative strategies for targeting pathogenic factors of the respiratory pathogens instead of killing it precisely.