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Updated: Jun 6, 2025
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The Cultivation, Growth, and Viability of Lactic Acid Bacteria: A Quality Control Perspective
Published on: June 16, 2022
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Lactic acid bacteria: A sustainable solution against phytopathogenic agents
Andreia Saragoça1, Henrique Canha1, Carla M R Varanda2,3
1Biosciences School of Elvas, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, Elvas, Portugal.
Environmental Microbiology Reports
|December 3, 2024
Summary
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) show promise as biological control agents (BCAs) for sustainable agriculture. These beneficial bacteria inhibit plant pathogens primarily by producing organic acids that lower pH.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
Background:
- Biological control agents (BCAs) offer sustainable plant protection against pathogens.
- Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are recognized for their safety and are explored as biopesticides.
- LAB exhibit antifungal properties via nutrient competition or antimicrobial metabolite production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review studies on lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as biological control agents (BCAs).
- To focus on the inhibition modes employed by LAB against phytopathogens.
- To discuss the limitations and future challenges of using LAB in sustainable agriculture.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on LAB as BCAs.
- Analysis of studies detailing LAB inhibition mechanisms against plant pathogens.
- Synthesis of information on practical applications and challenges.
Main Results:
- Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) effectively inhibit phytopathogens through various mechanisms.
- Organic acid production, leading to pH reduction, is a primary inhibition strategy for LAB.
- Studies demonstrate the potential of specific Lactobacillus species in controlling plant diseases.
Conclusions:
- Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are viable biological control agents (BCAs) for sustainable agriculture.
- Further research is needed to overcome limitations and optimize LAB application for plant disease management.
- The use of LAB contributes to eco-friendly and safe agricultural practices.
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