Antifungal activity of cinnamaldehyde against <i>Fusarium sambucinum</i> involves inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis
Juan Wei, Y. Bi, H. Xue, Yi Wang, Y. Zong, Dov Prusky
Abstract
AIMS: In this study, the antifungal effect of cinnamaldehyde against Fusarium sambucinum and its underlying mechanisms were determined. METHODS AND RESULTS: cinnamaldehyde could reduce the ergosterol content by 67·94%. This effect was accompanied by a down-regulation of ERG11, ERG6 and ERG4 which were involved in ergosterol biosynthesis. CONCLUSION: Theses results suggest that cinnamaldehyde exerts strong antifungal activity against F. sambucinum, probably by affecting the ergosterol biosynthetic processes what leads to the disruption of cell membrane integrity. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Cinnamaldehyde is a predominant constituent and key flavour compound of cinnamon essential oil. It has been used as a food additive and flavorant. It is expected to be a novel and safe fungicide for controlling dry rot in potato tubes.