Towards understanding of fungal biocontrol mechanisms of different yeasts antagonistic to Botrytis cinerea through exometabolomic analysis

There is increased interest in research on yeasts as potential phytopathogen biocontrol agents due to increasing restrictions the use of chemical pesticides. Yeast strains from a range genera and species have been reported inhibit postharvest decay different fruits. However, mechanisms behind these yeast capacities not completely deciphered because they are complex act synergistically. In this study, we performed thorough untargeted analysis exometabolome generated co-culture fungal plant pathogen Botrytis cinerea with four antagonistic strains: Pichia fermentans (two strains), Issatchenkia terricola Wickerhamomyces anomalus. As result, general strain-specific antifungal molecules were identified. The P. secreted highest number differential metabolites extracellular medium when co-cultured B. cinerea. vitro vivo protection assays selected metabolites. Among plethora 46 differentially related yeast-fungus competitive interaction, phenylpropanoid trans-cinnamic acid alkaloid indole-3-carboxaldehyde identified best against gray mold infection under assays. Both caused damage membrane ROS generation spores addition, enhanced secretion oxylipins, dipeptides, alkaloids or antibiotics deserve be further investigated signaling molecules. This study opens door future investigations roles metabolism application knowledge for biotechnological purposes.