Isolation, structural characterization and sporicidal properties of Baelezcin A, a novel cyclic lipopeptide from Bacillus velezensis SJ100083 against gray mold

BackgroundPostharvest gray mold induced by Botrytis cinerea seriously affects cherry quality, resulting in huge economic losses. The aim of this study was to isolate and purify a novel antifungal compound from the endophytic Bacillus velezensis SJ100083 of cherries to prevent postharvest gray mold. ResultsIn this study, Baelezcin A, extracted and purified from Bacillus velezensis SJ100083, was found effective in suppressing gray mold on cherries. Furthermore, the structure of Baelezcin A was identified as a novel cyclic lipopeptide with molecular formula of C52H91N7O13 through ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Baelezcin A treatment at 25 mg L-1 significantly decreased the disease incidence and severity of cherry gray mold, the antifungal mechanism of which was attributed to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species within the spores and the leakage of mycelium cytoplasmal contents, resulting in a low rate of spore germination. Moreover, it was proven to be biologically safe within a certain range by MTT assays. ConclusionOur study demonstrated that Baelezcin A from the culture of Bacillus velezensis SJ100083 may be a promising fruit preservative for controlling postharvest gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea. (c) 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.