Anti-fungal effects of lactic acid bacteria from pickles on the growth and sterigmatocystin production of Aspergillus versicolor

Sterigmatocystin (STC) is an emerging mycotoxin that poses a significant threat to the food security of cereal crops. To mitigate STC contamination in maize, this study employed selected lactic acid bacteria as biocontrol agents against Aspergillus versicolor, evaluating their biocontrol potential and analyzing the underlying mechanisms. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HJ10, isolated from pickle, exhibited substantial in vitro antifungal activity and passed safety assessments, including antibiotic resistance and hemolysis tests. In vivo experiments demonstrated that L. plantarum HJ10 significantly reduced the contents of A. versicolor and STC in maize (both >84 %). The impact of heat, enzymes, alkali, and other treatments on the antifungal activity of cell-free supernatant (CFS) was investigated. Integrated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed that lactic acid, acetic acid, and formic acid are the key substances responsible for the in vitro antifungal activity of L. plantarum HJ10. These metabolites induced mold apoptosis by disrupting cell wall structure, increasing cell membrane fluidity, reducing enzyme activities, and disrupting energy metabolism. However, in vivo antagonism by L. plantarum HJ10 primarily occurs through organic acid production and competition for growth space and nutrients. This study highlights the potential of L. plantarum HJ10 in reducing A. versicolor and STC contamination in maize.