Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026
Live-cell Imaging of Fungal Cells to Investigate Modes of Entry and Subcellular Localization of Antifungal Plant Defensins
Published on: December 24, 2017
Antifungal mechanism of phenyllactic acid against Mucor investigated through proteomic analysis
Chaoqi Zhang1, Mingmei Guo2, Yanhui Kong3
1College of Food Engineering, Yantai Key Laboratory of Nanoscience and Technology for Prepared Food, Yantai Engineering Research Center of Food Green Processing and Quality Control, Ludong University, Yantai, Shandong 264025, PR China.
Abstract:
The primary inhibitory targets of phenyllactic acid (PLA, including D-PLA and L-PLA) on Mucor were investigated using Mucor racemosus LD3.0026 isolated from naturally spoiled cherry, as an indicator fungi. The results demonstrated that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PLA against Mucor was 12.5 mmol·L-1. Results showed that the growing cells at the tip of the Mucor were not visibly deformed, and there was no damage to the cell wall following PLA treatment; however, PLA damaged the cell membrane and internal structure. The results of isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) indicated that the Mucor mitochondrial respiratory chain may be the target of PLA, potentially inhibiting the energy supply of Mucor. These results indicate that the antifungal mechanism of PLA against mold is independent of its molecular configuration. The growth of Mucor is suppressed by PLA, which destroys the organelle structure in the mycelium and inhibits energy metabolism.
Insights
Phenyllactic acid (PLA) inhibits Mucor mold growth by damaging cell membranes and internal structures, not by deforming cells. This antifungal action targets the mitochondrial respiratory chain, disrupting energy metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Food Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Mucor species are common spoilage fungi in fruits like cherries.
- Phenyllactic acid (PLA) is a known antimicrobial compound with potential applications in food preservation.
- Understanding the precise antifungal mechanisms of PLA is crucial for its effective use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the primary inhibitory targets of phenyllactic acid (PLA) on Mucor.
- To determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PLA against Mucor racemosus.
- To elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying PLA's antifungal activity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Mucor racemosus LD3.0026 as an indicator organism.
- Determined the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of PLA.
- Performed microscopic examination of treated fungal cells.
- Employed isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) to analyze protein expression.
Main Results:
- The MIC of PLA against Mucor was determined to be 12.5 mmol·L⁻¹.
- PLA treatment did not cause visible deformation or cell wall damage but affected cell membranes and internal structures.
- iTRAQ analysis suggested the mitochondrial respiratory chain as a primary target of PLA.
- Antifungal activity was independent of PLA's molecular configuration (D-PLA vs. L-PLA).
Conclusions:
- Phenyllactic acid effectively inhibits Mucor growth by targeting cellular structures and energy metabolism.
- PLA disrupts the mitochondrial respiratory chain, impairing energy supply to the fungus.
- The antifungal mechanism of PLA is not dependent on its stereoisomeric form, suggesting broad applicability.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Fungal Group Zygomycota
01:15Antifungal Agents