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D-Limonene Inhibits Pichia kluyveri Y-11519 in Sichuan Pickles by Disrupting Metabolism
Chaoyi Zeng1,2,3, Yue Sun1,3, Haoran Lin1,3
1College of Food and Bioengineering, Xihua University, Chengdu 610039, China.
Abstract:
The Pichia kluyveri, a proliferation commonly found in Sichuan pickles (SCPs), can accelerate the growth and reproduction of spoilage bacteria, causing off-odor development and decay. Although D-limonene, a common natural preservative, effectively restricts P. kluyveri, its inhibitory mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate this molecular mechanism by investigating the impact on basic P. kluyveri metabolism. The findings revealed that D-limonene inhibited P. kluyveri growth and disrupted the transcription of the genes responsible for encoding the enzymes involved in cell wall and membrane synthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, glycolysis, and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle pathway. The results indicated that these events disrupted crucial metabolism such as cell wall and membrane integrity, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance. These insights provided a comprehensive understanding of the inhibitory effect of D-limonene on the growth and reproduction of P. kluyveri while highlighting its potential application in the SCP industry.
Insights
D-limonene inhibits Pichia kluyveri, a spoilage yeast in Sichuan pickles, by disrupting key metabolic pathways. This natural preservative affects cell wall synthesis, energy production, and oxidative balance, offering potential for food preservation.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Food Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Pichia kluyveri is a common spoilage yeast in Sichuan pickles (SCPs).
- This yeast accelerates spoilage bacteria growth, leading to off-odors and decay.
- D-limonene is a natural preservative that inhibits P. kluyveri, but its mechanism is unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the molecular mechanism of D-limonene's inhibition on Pichia kluyveri.
- To investigate the impact of D-limonene on P. kluyveri's core metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Investigated the effects of D-limonene on P. kluyveri growth.
- Analyzed gene transcription related to essential metabolic pathways.
- Assessed impacts on cell wall/membrane synthesis, energy production, and oxidative balance.
Main Results:
- D-limonene significantly inhibited P. kluyveri growth.
- Disrupted gene transcription for cell wall/membrane synthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, glycolysis, and TCA cycle.
- Compromised cell integrity, ATP synthesis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance.
Conclusions:
- D-limonene disrupts critical metabolic processes in P. kluyveri.
- Provides a molecular understanding of D-limonene's preservative action.
- Highlights D-limonene's potential application in the Sichuan pickle industry for spoilage control.

