2-Undecanone controls pepper anthracnose by simultaneous activation of host resistance and direct antifungal action

Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum species, is a major postharvest disease of fruits and vegetables worldwide. This study explored the antifungal efficacy and underlying mechanisms of 2-undecanone, a natural antimicrobial compound derived from plants. In vitro analysis demonstrated that 2-undecanone exhibits potent, dose-dependent antifungal activity against Colletotrichum mycelial growth. Mechanistically, the compound rapidly induces an oxidative stress burst (increased ROS). Transcriptomic analysis further revealed that 2-undecanone promotes autophagy by up-regulating multiple ATG genes (ATG2, ATG8, ATG9), and triggers cell cycle arrest through the down-regulation of key regulators (CDC28, CLB, MCM). These combined effects effectively block fungal growth and proliferation, and ultimately leading to a severe loss of cell membrane integrity and viability. In vivo assays confirmed the compound's practical efficacy, showing that 1.6 μL/mL 2-undecanone reduced lesion diameter by ≈ 96% on inoculated pepper fruit. Furthermore, 2-undecanone significantly and consistently elevated the activities of multiple defense-related enzymes and a suite of antioxidant enzymes. This activation strengthens the fruit's intrinsic resistance against infection. In conclusion, 2-undecanone controls pepper anthracnose through a unique bifunctional mode of action: direct cytocidal attack on the pathogen coupled with strong induction of host defense mechanisms. These findings highlight 2-undecanone's potential as a safe and sustainable natural fungicide for postharvest disease management.