Ustiloxins as Emerging Contaminants in Rice Agroecosystems: Environmental Occurrence, Ecotoxicological Impacts, and...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Mycology
• Environmental Toxicology

Background:

• Ustiloxins are toxic cyclic peptides produced by the fungus Ustilaginoidea virens, causing rice false smut disease.
• This disease reduces rice yield and grain quality, with toxins contaminating soil, water, and food products.
• Ustiloxins disrupt eukaryotic cell division by inhibiting microtubule polymerization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on ustiloxin biology, environmental occurrence, ecotoxicology, detection, and management.
• To consolidate research on ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) biosynthesis and regulatory networks.
• To highlight research priorities for effective monitoring and mitigation of ustiloxin contamination.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing information on ustiloxin biosynthesis, genetics, and regulation.
• Compilation of data on environmental persistence, translocation, and ecotoxicological effects.
• Evaluation of detection methods (LC-MS/MS, immunoassays, biosensors) and management strategies (resistant cultivars, fungicides, biological controls, detoxification).

Main Results:

• Ustiloxins are persistent environmental contaminants with broad ecotoxicological impacts, including phytotoxicity and mammalian toxicity.
• Advances in detection methods offer improved diagnostics for field applications.
• Various management strategies show promise, but integrated approaches are needed for effective control.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of ustiloxins requires a multi-faceted approach, integrating resistant cultivars, disease forecasting, and novel control methods.
• Further research, including multi-omics and spread modeling, is crucial for understanding and mitigating ustiloxin risks.
• Developing biotechnological interventions and establishing regulatory limits are key to achieving an ustiloxin-free rice agroecosystem.