Isolation and characterization of endophytic fungi from Pinus rouxburghii.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Isolation and characterization of endophytic fungi from spikes of pinus rouxburghii growing in himalayan region
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Akanksha Bhardwaj Deeksha Sharma, Pavan Kumar Agrawal
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Isolation and characterization of endophytic fungi from spikes of pinus rouxburghii growing in himalayan region
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
1) IntroductionEndophytes are diverse microorganisms that live within plant tissues, often without causing harm, and are known for their potential to produce bioactive compounds. Given the increasing demand for new and effective bioactive agents in medicine, there's a significant interest in exploring fungi as sources of pharmaceuticals. This study focuses on the diversity of endophytic fungi isolated from Pinus rouxburghii, a tree native to the Himalayan region known for its medicinal properties.
2) Isolation and Characterization of Endophytic Fungi
The research involved the collection of healthy spikes from Pinus rouxburghii in the Pauri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The spikes were treated and processed to isolate endophytic fungi using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium. A total of 17 endophytic fungi were isolated, among which six distinct morphotypes were identified, including Alternaria alternata, Thielaviopsis basicola, Geotrichum albida, and Penicillium frequentaus. The identification was based on morphological characteristics, and further confirmation was obtained from the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.
3) Fungal Endophyte Diversity Analysis
The study assessed the colonization rates and relative frequencies of the isolated endophytic fungi. The most frequently identified fungus was Penicillium frequentaus (41.1%), followed by Thielaviopsis basicola (29.4%), Geotrichum albida (11.76%), and Alternaria alternata (5.88%). Two unidentified fungal species also contributed to the diversity. This highlights the substantial diversity of endophytic fungi associated with Pinus rouxburghii and their potential for discovering new bioactive compounds.
4) Significance of Endophytic Fungi
Endophytic fungi play a vital role in plant health and resilience. They can protect their host plants against pathogens and pests and contribute to the production of secondary metabolites that may have medicinal properties. The findings indicate that the endophytes isolated from Himalayan Pinus rouxburghii could be valuable in the search for new pharmaceuticals, considering their bioactive potential and the ecological niches they inhabit.
5) Conclusion
The study presents preliminary findings on the diversity of endophytic fungi associated with Pinus rouxburghii in the Pauri Garhwal region. It establishes that these fungi demonstrate the ability to survive within plant tissues and are not specific to host plants. Given their potential for producing valuable bioactive compounds, this research underscores the importance of continuing investigations into the ecological and pharmaceutical roles of endophytic fungi, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are endophytic fungi and where are they found?
Endophytic fungi are microorganisms that reside within plant tissues without causing disease. They are found in various plants, with studies indicating that nearly all plant species host one or more endophytic organisms.
What was the focus of the study on Pinus rouxburghii?
The study focused on isolating and characterizing endophytic fungi from the spikes of Pinus rouxburghii, a tree native to the Himalayan region, to assess their biodiversity and potential bioactive properties.
Which species of endophytic fungi were isolated in the study?
The study isolated 17 endophytic fungi, including Penicillium frequentaus, Thielaviopsis basicola, Geotrichium albida, and Alternaria alternata, along with two unidentified species.
What methods were used for isolating endophytic fungi?
Endophytic fungi were isolated using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium, with samples subjected to surface sterilization and incubation under controlled conditions to promote fungal growth.
What was the colonization rate of endophytic fungi found?
The colonization rate of endophytic fungi isolated from Pinus rouxburghii was observed to be 0.121%, indicating a relatively low occurrence of fungal colonization in the sampled spikes.
Why are endophytic fungi of interest in pharmaceutical research?
Endophytic fungi are of interest due to their ability to produce bioactive secondary metabolites, which can lead to the discovery of new therapeutic agents and natural products beneficial to human health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Isolation and characterization of endophytic fungi from Pinus rouxburghii.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Water:
Water is essential for life and serves as a vital component in biological processes, including the cultivation and growth of plants. In the context of this study, it's relevant as it pertains to the healthy growth of Pinus rouxburghii and surrounding ecosystems. Effective water management influences fungal endophyte survival and interactions within their host plants.
2) Drug:
A drug refers to a chemical substance used for medicinal purposes to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent diseases. Endophytic fungi, isolated from Pinus rouxburghii, are significant as they may produce bioactive compounds, potentially leading to new drug discoveries, thus addressing the rise of antibiotic resistance and emerging health issues.
3) Discussion:
Discussion is a critical section in scientific research where findings are interpreted, and implications are explored. In this study, the discussion revolves around the biodiversity of endophytic fungi, their potential applications, and their ecological significance. Engaging in discussion helps to contextualize results within broader biological and medicinal frameworks.
4) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are powerful substances that inhibit the growth of bacteria and are integral to treating infections. The study highlights the historical importance of fungi in antibiotic discovery, exemplified by penicillin from Penicillium, underscoring how endophytic fungi may offer new avenues for antibiotic development against resistant pathogens.
5) Knowledge:
Knowledge signifies the understanding and information gained from research and studies. This study contributes to the knowledge of endophytic fungi associated with Pinus rouxburghii in the Himalayan region. Enhanced knowledge about these fungi may lead to beneficial applications in agriculture and pharmaceuticals, promoting biodiversity awareness and conservation efforts.
6) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is a revered medicinal plant recognized for its health benefits. While mentioned in comparison, it exemplifies the potential of various plants to harbor beneficial endophytes. Investigating such relationships can yield insights into plant-based natural products that have therapeutic properties, highlighting the interplay of endophytes and host plants.
7) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli, which can lead to various diseases. Endophytic fungi may produce compounds that modulate inflammatory responses, presenting an area of interest for therapeutic research. Understanding how these fungi interact with plant and human health may reveal new anti-inflammatory agents derived from natural sources.
8) Himalaya (Himālaya, Hima-alaya):
The Himalaya region is characterized by diverse ecosystems and unique plant species, including Pinus rouxburghii. This geographical context is vital in exploring the biodiversity of endophytic fungi. The distinct climate and altitude foster unique fungal populations, further emphasizing the importance of studying these environments to discover new bioactive compounds.
9) Akanksha (Ākāṅkṣā, Ākāṅkṣa, Ākāṃkṣā, Akamksha, A-kamksha):
Akanksha is the name of one of the contributing authors of the research article. The mention of individual contributors is significant in academic writing as it attributes the research findings to their respective researchers. Acknowledging authors emphasizes collaborative efforts in scientific investigations, leading to advancements in knowledge and understanding.
10) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment in which a species lives. The study investigates endophytic fungi residing within the habitat of Pinus rouxburghii. Understanding the habitat of these fungi is critical in appreciating their ecological roles, interactions with host plants, and potential for producing bioactive compounds relevant to human health.
11) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sharma is another author associated with the research, indicating collaboration in the study. Author attribution is crucial in academic contexts, as it gives credit to individuals who have contributed expertise and labor towards the research process. Collaborations often enhance the depth and breadth of scientific inquiry and reporting.
12) Insect:
Insects are important components of ecosystem dynamics, often interacting with the flora and fauna around them. The study mentions how endophytic fungi can protect their host plants from insect pests. This highlights the ecological roles of endophytes, showcasing their potential applications in biocontrol methods for agricultural pest management.
13) Glass:
Glass is referred to in the context of laboratory equipment and sterile processes. In microbiological research, sterile glassware is essential to avoid contamination when isolating and culturing endophytic fungi. Proper laboratory techniques, including the use of clean glassware, are fundamental to ensuring the reliability of experimental results.
14) Ulcer:
An ulcer refers to a sore that develops on the skin or mucous membranes, often associated with inflammation or infection. The medicinal properties of Pinus rouxburghii and its endophytes suggest potential therapeutic benefits for treating ulcers. Exploring the bioactive compounds derived from these endophytes could lead to novel treatments.
15) Post:
Post generally indicates an occurrence following an event. In the medical context, post-operative complications are critical issues that require attention. Researching bioactive compounds from endophytic fungi is particularly pertinent in developing therapies to mitigate such complications, especially with regard to the challenges posed by modern medicine.
16) Soil:
Soil serves as a fundamental ecosystem component, providing nutrients and habitat for plant roots and associated microorganisms. The health of plants like Pinus rouxburghii is closely linked to soil quality. The interaction between soil conditions and endophytic fungi is significant for understanding their diversity and bioactive potential in therapeutic applications.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Isolation and characterization of endophytic fungi from Pinus rouxburghii.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Natural product, Seasonal variation, Systematic study, Medicinal value, Therapeutic potential, Microscopic Characteristics, Secondary metabolite, Macroscopic features, Potato Dextrose Agar, Bioactive compound, Antibacterial potential, Morphological character, Biological diversity, Endophytic fungi, Bioactive secondary metabolites, Molecular characteristics, Ecological niche, Sterile conditions, Antimicrobial compound, Fungal species, Pharmaceutical product, Indian medicinal plant, Mature plant.
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