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Published on: April 19, 2017
Aspergillus fumigatus from Pathogenic Fungus to Unexplored Natural Treasure: Changing the Concept
Sabrin R M Ibrahim1,2, Hagar Mohamed Mohamed3,4, Anfal S Aljahdali5
1Department of Chemistry, Preparatory Year Program, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
The Aspergillus genus is one of the oldest known fungal genera. Its species can survive in extremely difficult environmental conditions and can affect plants, animals, and human health due to their pathogenic characteristics. Also, they represent an enormous chemical and biological repertoire. A. fumigatus is a fungal pathogen that has been thoroughly investigated due to its medical significance. Additionally, A. fumigatus has revealed a capacity to biosynthesize different classes of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, terpenes, sterols, quinones, peptides, and benzophenones. Alkaloids are the most common type of secondary metabolites that A. fumigatus produces, and they have a variety of biological functions. This current study aimed to highlight the positive aspects of this fungus. The published research on the structures, biological functions, and biosynthesis of A. fumigatus's isolated metabolites were emphasized in this work. The current review comprised more than 400 compounds, with more than 145 references that were published between 1965 and August 2024. This review underscores the role of this fungus as a reservoir of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and agricultural applications.
Insights
Aspergillus fumigatus, a significant fungal pathogen, is a rich source of diverse bioactive compounds. This review highlights its secondary metabolites, revealing potential antimicrobial, anticancer, and agricultural applications.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The *Aspergillus* genus, including *A. fumigatus*, comprises ancient fungi with remarkable environmental adaptability and pathogenic potential.
- *A. fumigatus* is medically significant and possesses a vast chemical repertoire, producing diverse secondary metabolites like alkaloids, terpenes, and peptides.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and highlight the positive attributes of *A. fumigatus*.
- To emphasize the structures, biological functions, and biosynthesis of metabolites isolated from *A. fumigatus*.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of published research on *A. fumigatus* metabolites.
- Analysis of over 400 compounds and 145 references from 1965 to August 2024.
Main Results:
- *A. fumigatus* produces a wide array of secondary metabolites, with alkaloids being the most common.
- These metabolites exhibit diverse biological functions and therapeutic potential.
Conclusions:
- *A. fumigatus* serves as a valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds.
- Identified metabolites demonstrate significant potential for antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and agricultural applications.
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