Castanea crenata Ginkbilobin-2-like Recombinant Protein Reveals Potential as an Antimicrobial against Phytophthora cinnamomi, the Causal Agent of Ink Disease in European Chestnut

The European chestnut tree (Castanea sativa Mill.) is widely cultivated throughout the world’s temperate regions. In Mediterranean region, it has a significant economic role mainly because of high quality its edible nuts. Oomycete Phytophthora cinnamomi one most severe pathogens affecting chestnuts, causing ink disease and losses in production. Ginkgobilobin-2 (Gnk2) Ginkgo biloba secreted protein with plant-specific cysteine-rich motif that functions as lectin, carbohydrate-binding properties are closely related to antifungal activity. binding lectins mannose residues cell wall species may disturb disrup structure. This work determined amino acid sequence signal peptide directs final apoplast. Cast_Gnk2-like expression was performed optimized, different vitro antagonism tests were done against P. using purified concentrations. As result these assays, significantly reduced mycelia growth liquid medium shown by weight (g) control treatments 377% higher than treatments. These insights reveal potential for agricultural uses biotechnological developments pathosystem chestnut/P. cinnamomi.