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Establishing Fungal Entomopathogens as Endophytes: Towards Endophytic Biological Control
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Pharmacological Potential of Fungal Endophytes Associated with Medicinal Plants: A Review

Bartholomew Saanu Adeleke1, Olubukola Oluranti Babalola1

  • 1Food Security and Safety Niche Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2735, South Africa.

Journal of Fungi (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 6, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Endophytic fungi from medicinal plants produce valuable bioactive compounds. This review explores these fungal metabolites and their potential for developing new antimicrobial and anticancer drugs.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology and Pharmacology
  • Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

  • Rising antibiotic resistance necessitates novel therapeutic agents.
  • Endophytic microbes reside within plant tissues without causing harm.
  • Chronic diseases pose a significant global health challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review fungal bioactive metabolites derived from medicinal plants.
  • To elucidate the pharmacological potential of these endophytic fungal compounds.
  • To highlight the importance of exploring natural sources for drug discovery.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications on endophytic fungi and their metabolites.
  • Analysis of reported bioactive compounds and their associated pharmacological activities.
  • Compilation of data on specific fungal-derived compounds and their therapeutic relevance.

Main Results:

  • Endophytic fungi produce a diverse array of bioactive metabolites.
  • Identified compounds exhibit antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Examples include pestacin, taxol, camptothecin, and ergoflavin.

Conclusions:

  • Endophytic fungi represent a promising source for novel drug discovery.
  • Further exploration of these metabolites is crucial for developing new treatments.
  • These natural compounds offer multifunctional mechanisms against various diseases.
Keywords:
antibioticsantimicrobialfungal metabolitesmedicinal plantspharmacology

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