An insight into endophytic antimicrobial compounds: an updated analysis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global health challenge.
• Endophytes are microorganisms residing within plant tissues, offering mutualistic benefits.
• Endophytes synthesize diverse compounds, including antimicrobials, similar to their host plants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of fungal endophytes in producing novel antimicrobial compounds.
• To highlight the benefits of endophytes to their host plants.
• To discuss the application of endophytic antimicrobials in pharmaceutical industries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on studies of endophytic fungi and their antimicrobial properties.
• Analysis of classification systems for endophytic fungi.
• Exploration of genetic factors influencing antimicrobial production.
• Review of novel antimicrobial compounds derived from endophytes.
• Examination of the role of nanoparticles in enhancing antimicrobial activity.

Main Results:

• Endophytic fungi are a rich source of diverse antimicrobial compounds.
• These compounds show efficacy against bacterial, fungal, and viral infections.
• Endophytes provide significant benefits to their host plants.
• Novel endophytic antimicrobials and nanoparticle applications show pharmaceutical promise.

Conclusions:

• Fungal endophytes represent a valuable resource for discovering new antimicrobial agents.
• Further research into genetic mechanisms and formulation strategies is warranted.
• Endophytic-derived antimicrobials, potentially enhanced by nanoparticles, could address the challenge of antimicrobial resistance.