Soil Aspergillus Species, Pathogenicity and Control Perspectives
Queenta Ngum Nji1, Olubukola Oluranti Babalola1, Mulunda Mwanza1,2
1Food Security and Safety Focus Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho 2735, South Africa.
Journal of Fungi (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 28, 2023
Summary
Soil-dwelling Aspergillus fungi pose significant food safety risks due to their pathogenicity and mycotoxin production. Climate change may exacerbate these threats, necessitating sustainable biocontrol strategies for agricultural and ecosystem health.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Mycology
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Aspergillus species are widespread soil fungi, with some sections recognized as agricultural pests and mycotoxin producers.
- These fungi threaten global food safety and have adapted to diverse ecological niches.
- Understanding their ecological attributes is crucial for managing their pathogenicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the ecological factors contributing to the pathogenicity of Aspergillus species.
- To explore virulence factors, ecological adaptations, and potential biological control methods.
- To address the challenge of predicting virulence evolution in accidental pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of ecological attributes, virulence factors, and pathogenicity of Aspergillus.
- Analysis of genetic factors influencing virulence.
- Exploration of existing and potential biological control strategies.
Main Results:
- Aspergillus pathogenicity is influenced by conserved and species-specific genetic factors.
- Climate change is predicted to increase the emergence of new cryptic species and mycotoxin risks.
- Fungi remain a source of bioactive compounds, with many gene clusters underexplored.
Conclusions:
- Balancing soil biodiversity with the control of toxigenic fungi is essential for food security.
- Advanced strategies and biocontrol methods offer the most sustainable solutions for managing toxigenic fungi.
- Continued research into Aspergillus ecology and control is vital for mitigating global food safety risks.
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