Agriculture and Natural Resources

Chemical ecology of Streptomyces-fungal interactions in soil: Competition, signaling and antifungal metabolites

Phu-Tho Nguyen, Huu-Thanh Nguyen — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Soil is a spatially heterogeneous and chemically dynamic environment in which microorganisms often compete for spatially and temporally variable resources. Among the most ecologically important competitors are Streptomyces and filamentous fungi—two metabolically versatile groups whose interactions are strongly shaped by secondary metabolites. Although Streptomyces-derived antifungal compounds have been studied widely for pharmaceutical and biocontrol applications, their ecological and evolutionary roles in natural soil systems remain insufficiently integrated. This review synthesized Streptomyces-fungal interactions through the combined framework of chemical ecology and evolutionary competition. It examined the ecological basis of microbial antagonism in soil, the offensive chemical strategies used by Streptomyces and the defensive and adaptive responses of fungal competitors. The dual role was further highlighted of secondary metabolites as both inhibitory compounds and signaling molecules, with emphasis on how spatial heterogeneity, temporal dynamics and inducible chemistry shape interaction outcomes. Finally, the implications were considered of this eco-evolutionary perspective for biocontrol and sustainable agriculture and future directions were identified, including spatially resolved analyses, metabolic tracing and predictive modeling. Overall, antifungal metabolites in Streptomyces are best understood not as isolated bioactive products, but as context-dependent mediators of competition and communication that may contribute to adaptive diversification in soil ecosystems.

Assessment of horseshoe crab [Tachypleus tridentatus (Leach, 1819)] by catch in artisanal fish corrals of Palawan, the Philippines

Maria Mojena G. Plasus, Dorkas Kaiser, Sabine Schoppe, Benjamin J. Gonzales — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Incidental capture in small-scale fisheries is an increasingly recognized threat to marine megafauna, yet quantitative assessments remain limited in data-poor tropical regions, particularly for stationary fishing gear. This study has provided the first fishery-wide baseline estimate of horseshoe crab bycatch in artisanal fish corrals in Palawan, the Philippines. Objectives: to provide the first fishery-wide baseline assessment of horseshoe crab [Tachypleus tridentatus (Leach, 1819)] bycatch in artisanal fish corrals in Palawan, the Philippines. Materials and Methods: A full census was conducted of fishers (n = 60) from nine coastal villages in Puerto Princesa City, complemented by spatial mapping of 155 fish corrals. Interview-derived catch per unit effort (CPUE) was used to estimate annual bycatch by scaling weekly catches across reported months of operation, with median values applied where data were unavailable. Results: The weekly bycatch was in the range 0–20 individuals/trap/wk, with median values of 2–3 individuals/trap/wk. Annual bycatch was estimated at approximately 14,300–28,600 individuals. Bycatch hotspots were concentrated in Honda Bay and Ulugan Bay. Although spawning was reported throughout the year, observations were strongly associated with periods of active trap operation, suggesting observation bias rather than distinct seasonal spawning. No respondents reported intentional killing, consumption, or sale of horseshoe crabs. Main finding: Artisanal fish corrals exert substantial incidental bycatch pressure on horseshoe crabs, despite the absence of targeted exploitation. These findings have established the first quantitative baseline for this fishery and have identified priority areas for spatially targeted management and community-based conservation.

Development of functional noodles enriched with encapsulated sage powder: Evaluation of physicochemical, microbial, nutritional and sensory properties

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Functional noodles enriched with encapsulated sage powder should address gaps in shelf-life, nutritional enhancement and natural preservation. Objectives: To evaluate the physicochemical, microbiological, nutritional, antioxidant and sensory properties of noodles fortified with encapsulated sage powder. Materials and Methods: Wheat noodles were fortified with encapsulated sage powder (0%, 3%, 6%). Analysis considered physicochemical properties, microbial counts, phenolic content, antioxidant activity, vitamin levels, and sensory evaluation. Results: SESP fortification improved noodle pH stability, water absorption, and texture. At 6% SESP, microbial counts remained approximately 1–1.5 log colony-forming units/mL lower than the control throughout 14 d of refrigerated storage. Nutritionally, phenolics increased by 50% and antioxidants by 2.2-fold, with higher β-carotene and vitamin C retention. Sensory evaluation of the 3% SESP formulation showed higher appearance and texture scores than the control, with no significant differences in aroma, taste, aftertaste, or overall acceptability. Main finding: Encapsulated sage powder (SESP) improved noodle storage stability and nutritional quality while maintaining consumer acceptability, supporting its use as a functional ingredient in staple food development

Characterization of dominant fungal contamination and integration of some “Generally Regarded as Safe” additives for control in natural rubber sheets

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Thailand is one of the world's largest exporters of latex and rubber sheets. However, fungal contamination during rubber sheet drying remains a major problem affecting product quality and economic value. Objectives: To identify fungal pathogens associated with rubber sheet diseases and to evaluate environment-friendly control treatments in vitro to support improved disease management strategies. Materials and Methods: Fungal samples were isolated from contaminated rubber sheets and cultured on potato dextrose agar. Morphological observation and molecular analysis of the internal transcriber spacer (ITS)1-5.8S-ITS2 region and the β-tubulin gene were used for identification. The antifungal efficacy was investigated of three food additives (potassium sorbate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate) at three different concentrations (1%, 2%, 3%) to evaluate their effectiveness against the pathogen. Results: A combination of morphological and molecular analyses identified the pathogen as Aspergillus tamarii Kita (1913), a common contaminant known for its resilience and ability to thrive in humid conditions. The tested antifungal and “Generally Regarded as Safe” additive treatments showed that sodium bicarbonate, particularly at concentrations of 1% and higher, was highly effective in completely inhibiting both the mycelial growth and spore germination of A. tamarii. Based on these findings, sodium bicarbonate, a commonly used and safe food additive, could serve as a promising solution for controlling A. tamarii in rubber sheets. Main finding: This research provided the first scientific evidence confirming A. tamarii infection in natural rubber sheets and demonstrated the potential of sodium bicarbonate as an environment-friendly and practical antifungal strategy for large-scale, industrial rubber sheet production.

Nutritional evaluation of Bunaeopsis aurantiaca (Rothschild, 1895) caterpillar meal for broiler chickens: Effects on growth performance, blood profiles, apparent nutrient digestibility, carcass and economic characteristics

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Fish meal is used widely in poultry diets due to its high digestibility, balanced amino acid profile and absence of anti-nutritional factors. However, rising costs, limited supply, environmental constraints and competition with human consumption have highlighted the urgent need for affordable, sustainable alternative protein sources for poultry production in Africa. Objectives: To assess the effects of Bunaeopsis aurantiaca (Rothschild, 1895) caterpillar meal (BAM) on performance, blood biochemistry, nutrient digestibility, carcass traits and economics. Materials and Methods: In total, 300 unsexed day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks (mean weight ± sd = 48.00 ± 0.01 g) were assigned to three dietary treatments containing BAM. From days 3–28, diets with different weights of BAM on a dry matter (DM basis) were tested replacing fish meal: 0 g/kg (BAM0), 10 g/kg (BAM50) and 20 g /kg (BAM100). Then, from days 29–56, the DM BAM levels for these three diets were 0 g/kg, 7.5 g/kg and 15 g /kg, respectively. Birds were allotted to a completely randomized design with five replicates of 20 birds each. Feed and water were offered ad libitum. Results: BAM0 birds had higher (p < 0.0001) feed intake during days 3–28 and overall (3–56 days). Hemoglobin, total protein and urea levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the BAM0 birds, while the serum Ca, Mg and K levels declined (p < 0.05) in the BAM100 sample. The crude protein digestibility was greater (p < 0.0001) in the BAM0 birds, but the ether extract digestibility was highest in the BAM100 sample. Feed cost and gross margin improved (p < 0.05) with BAM50 and BAM100 diets. Main finding: BAM could be used to replace fish meal in broiler diets without adverse effects on key performance indices. Further research is warranted to assess long-term impacts.

Inheritance of photoperiod sensitivity and cannabinoid stability in F2 generation of hemp variety ‘CBD Charlotte’s Angel’: Implications for biological intellectual property protection

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: A breeding-based biological barrier in the F2 generation can effectively complement the legal protection of the proprietary F1 hemp variety. Objectives: To evaluate photoperiod sensitivity and cannabinoid stability inheritance in a ‘CBD Charlotte’s Angel’ F2 population to validate biological intellectual property (IP) protection. Materials and Methods: Female cuttings of CBD Charlotte’s Angel were induced to develop hermaphroditic flowers using a 30 parts per million colloidal silver solution. These plants were self-pollinated to produce F2 seeds. In total, 162 F2 plants were cultivated and evaluated in a plant factory with an artificial lighting environment. Results: Photoperiod sensitivity in the F2 population followed a 3:1 segregation ratio (photoperiod-sensitive to photoperiod-insensitive; chi squared = 0.67, p = 0.414), confirming that the photoperiod sensitivity in this variety was controlled by a single dominant gene. Conversely, the cannabinoid profiles remained within the expected Type III range across all sampled individuals; all F2 plants consistently maintained high cannabidiol (CBD) levels (mean ± SD = 10.68 ± 2.08%) and low tetrahydrocannabinol levels (0.024±0.065%), with no significant deviation from the parental variety. Based on these results, while the parental lines exhibited physiological divergence, they had high genetic stability in cannabinoid biosynthesis, suggesting putative homozygosity at the CBD-synthase gene. Main finding: Segregation of photoperiod sensitivity in the F2 generation complicated reverse hybridization and challenged parental line recovery. Along with consistent cannabinoid profiles, this forms a strong breeding-based biological barrier that safeguards proprietary hemp hybrids.

Biological control potential of endophytic fungus Talaromyces wortmannii FP-25 against multiple fungal diseases of corn and banana on Mindanao Island, the Philippines

Fedencio V. Paslon Jr, Clelie mae F. Julabar-Alico, Jason A. Parlucha — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Antagonistic fungi offer a sustainable, eco-friendly biocontrol approach for disease management, providing an effective alternative to conventional chemical pesticides. Objectives: To evaluate and propose a biological control agent from an endophytic fungal strain against three fungal pathogens: Curvularia lunata, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense tropical race 4 (Foc TR4) and Stenocarpella maydis. Materials and Methods: The selected fungal endophyte was characterized based on morpho-cultural assessment on artificial media and ultrastructural examination using scanning electron microscopy. Molecular identification used the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. Antagonistic potential against selected fungal phytopathogens was evaluated using dual-culture assays to determine its efficacy as a prospective biological control agent. Results: The endophytic fungus was morpho-culturally characterized and molecularly identified based on ITS region sequencing, revealing 100% sequence identity with Talaromyces wortmannii. The dual-culture assays demonstrated potential antagonistic activity of T. wortmannii FP-25 against C. lunata, Foc TR4 and S. maydis. Radial growth inhibition increased significantly from day 6 to day 12, with linear mixed-effects modeling confirming significant treatment × incubation interactions. Based on other studies, the antagonistic mechanisms may involve mycoparasitism, secretion of cell wall-degrading enzymes and production of antifungal secondary metabolites. Distinct temporal suppression patterns were observed among the evaluated phytopathogens. Main finding: The endophytic fungus T. wortmannii FP-25 acted as an effective potential biocontrol agent, suppressing pathogen inocula via competition and potential antibiosis. Its activity against multiple economically important fungal phytopathogens and its timedependent antagonism support its potential application in integrated disease management and represents the first report of biocontrol activity of T. wortmannii FP-25 against C. lunata, Foc TR4 and S. maydis in the Philippines

Extraction of active compounds from traditional herbal compress ingredients for hydrogel pain relief patch development

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: The modification of traditional herbal compresses into easy-touse patches provides a more convenient alternative while delivering equivalent benefits to other commercial products. Objectives: To extract active compounds for herbal compresses for the development of pain relief patches. Materials and Methods: Samples of the Thai herb ‘plai’ (Zingiber cassumunar Roxb.), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., were extracted using steam distillation, water extraction or frying with coconut oil. Then, the active compounds were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify their components. Subsequently, these extracts were incorporated into pain relief patches formulated with a pectin and sodium alginate base. Results: The extracts from the three plants were analyzed using GC-MS, identifying γ- terpinene at 11 min, (E)-1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenl) butadiene at 29 min and levomenthol at 18 min as pain-relieving compounds. The FTIR analysis of the extracts and pain relief patches detected functional groups, consisting of C=C bending, C-O stretching, N-O stretching, C=O stretching, C-H stretching and O-H stretching. An irritation test using the 4 hr closed patch method at 0 hr, 4 hr, 24 hr, 48 hr and 72 hr resulted in no significant (p < 0.05) skin irritation. Main finding: The extracts were incorporated effectively into a pectin-sodium, alginate, hydrogel matrix, forming structurally stable patches, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and FTIR analyses. Skin irritation testing demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, while volunteer-based evaluation showed significant pain reduction after application. Based on these results, the developed hydrogel patch represented a practical and user-friendly alternative to conventional herbal compresses, bridging traditional medicine with modern transdermal delivery systems.

Development and structural characterization of peach palm heart-based plant meat analogues enriched with supplementary plant protein

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Peach palm heart is an underutilized perennial crop with potential as a structural ingredient for plant-based meat analogues. Objectives: To develop peach palm heart-based meat analogues and evaluate the processing effects on nutritional, physicochemical and structural properties. Materials and Methods: Peach palm heart minced- and burger-type prototypes with 5% pineapple core juice were processed by microwave (800 W, 5 min) or retort (121°C, 10 min). Nutritional composition, amino acids, color, cooking loss, water absorption capacity, texture profile analysis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy- principal component analysis (FTIR-PCA) were evaluated against chicken breast and commercial plant-based meat. Results: The selected prototypes were cholesterol-free, low in saturated fat and provided 10.02–11.92 g protein/100 g product. In the high-protein formulation, crude protein reached 29.62 g/100 g after microwave cooking. The retort minced-type prototype had the greatest storage color stability over 180 d (total color difference = 1.84), whereas the microwave burger-type prototype had the highest mean ± SD values for hardness (7,378.39 ± 435.20 g) and chewiness (11,610.38 ± 997.08). The FTIR-PCA analysis suggested that processing-dependent structural variation was associated with protein-fiber structural variation. Main finding: Peach palm heart showed potential as a structurally functional perennial ingredient for nutritionally complementary plant-based meat analogues under different thermal processing conditions.

Oil removal from water using carbon aerogels derived from pomelo peel

Thanawan Panich-pat, Noppada Srimueang, Thitiya Pung Thitiya Pung — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Agricultural waste material was utilized to make carbon aerogels that can adsorb oils and be reused. Objectives: To investigate the potential of carbon aerogel made from pomelo peel (CAPP) as a potential sorbent for oils from the surface of water. Materials & Methods: The CAPPs were prepared from pomelo peel by cutting, freezing at −20°C for 24 hr and freeze-drying at −55°C or −80°C for 24 hr, followed by carbonization or pyrolyzed at 300°C (5°C/min, 1 hr) to obtain CAPP1-1, CAPP1-2, CAPP2-1 and CAPP2-2, followed by investigations based on the contact angle, morphology, sorption, reusability and grease-trap testing. Results: The average water contact angles of CAPP1-1, CAPP1-2, CAPP2-1 and CAPP2- 2 were 124.1°, 79.1°, 99.1° and 84.3°, respectively. Sorption tests were conducted by immersing the CAPPs in 15 mL of oil on water for 30 s, yielding capacities of 4.35–9.04 g/g. Mean ± SE sorption was highest with diesel oil for CAPP1-1 (6.45 ± 0.35 g/g), with palm oil for CAPP1-2 (8.19 ± 0.56 g/g), with rice bran oil for CAPP2-1 (8.08 ± 0.37 g/g) and with rice bran oil for CAPP2-2 (9.04 ± 0.36 g/g). In household grease-trap testing, CAPP1-2 had the highest palm oil removal (11.71%), followed by CAPP2-2, CAPP2-1 and CAPP1-1. After the second recycle, diesel sorption remained high (73.4–88.6%), decreasing to moderate-to-low levels (36.4–71.4%) after the third recycle. Main finding: The CAPPs derived from pomelo peels could be fabricated based on freeze-drying and carbonization using a muffle furnace or pyrolysis. Palm oil removal from a grease trap was in the range 7.88–11.71%. Reusability was confirmed through absorption-regeneration tests for diesel oil over three cycles.

Evaluation of biopots made from various parts of water hyacinth: Physical and structural characteristics

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Water hyacinth (WH) is an invasive aquatic plant whose abundant biomass has potential as a renewable material for biodegradable planting pots (biopots). However, the effects of different WH components, including roots, petioles, and leaves, on biopot quality remain unclear. Utilizing WH biomass as an agricultural product could provide a sustainable approach to invasive weed management while supporting sustainable agriculture and the circular economy. Objectives: To determine the effect of different WH components and their proportions on the physical, mechanical, structural, and morphological properties of biopots. Materials and Methods: The biopot was produced using thermoprocesing at 150°C for 15 min based on white clay and polyvinyl acetate PVAc as a matrix. Four different compositions of raw material were tested: 100% roots; 50% roots and 50% petioles; 50% roots and 50% leaves; and 40% roots and 60% petioles. Each biopot was analyzed for physical, mechanical, structural and morphological properties. Results: The utilization of different parts of WH affected the quality of the biopot. Biopots using equal amounts of petioles and roots had improved quality. However, over-supplementation of petioles (60%) had some weakening effects, including increased water absorption and moisture content and a decreased impact resistance index (IRI) and compressive strength of the biopots. The use of 50% roots and 50% petioles contributed positively to the biopot physical-mechanical, structural and morphological properties, with mean ± SD values for density, moisture, water absorption in 30 min, IRI and compressive strength being 0.147 ± 0.006 g/cm3, 8.23 ± 0.06%, 129.57 ± 0.66%, 98.5% and 107 N, respectively. Main finding: The use of WH as a major source of biopot material could serve as an alternative for managing environmental issues associated with the spread of this aquatic weed. Biopots made from 50% WH roots and 50% petioles showed favorable physical and mechanical properties, suggesting their potential as an alternative to conventional polybags for sustainable agriculture. Further studies should evaluate WH biopot biodegradation, durability, economic feasibility and large-scale production potential.

Comparison of self-pollination and intercrossing for feminized seed production in Thai Hang Kra Rok cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) landrace

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Often, growing 'Hang Kra Rok' cannabis conventional seeds results in unwanted male plants, which substantially reduce cultivation efficiency. Objectives: To compare self-pollination and intercrossing strategies for producing highquality feminized seeds using two distinct Thai landrace accessions. Materials and Methods: Female cuttings from Bangkok and Sakon Nakhon accessions were treated with 30 parts per million colloidal silver to induce male flowers. Selfed (S1) and hybrid (F1) progeny were produced via manual pollination. S1 and F1 progenies were produced and evaluated in a plant factory with artificial lighting (PFAL) system. Results: The S1 progeny (Self-BKK and Self-SKN) and the F1 hybrid (SKN×BKK) produced 100% female plants. In contrast, the F1 hybrid (BKK×SKN) produced a single hermaphroditic plant, accounting for 5.6% of the population. Regarding vegetative growth, the F1 progeny had significantly (p < 0.05) greater plant height than the S1 progeny. Furthermore, flowering onset in the F1 progeny was delayed by approximately 7 d. However, no significant differences were observed in dry inflorescence weights across all treatments. In terms of phytochemical quality, the S1 progeny from the Bangkok source (Self-BKK) had the highest average Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content (6.58%), while the cannabidiol content did not differ significantly among treatments. Main finding: Under controlled PFAL conditions, self-pollination was an effective strategy for maintaining sexual stability and achieving early flowering in these Thai cannabis landraces, without compromising yield or THC quality

Extraction conditions and properties of Durio zibethinus Murr. seed gum and its application as a stabilizer in mung bean milk

Tuyen Chan Kha, Hien Vinh Nguyen, Phong Xuan Huynh — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: Seeds of Durio zibethinus Murr. represent an abundant by-product of the processing industry in Southeast Asia but remain underutilized. Their recovery as functional hydrocolloids could enhance agricultural value addition and support sustainable food applications. Objectives: To evaluate aqueous extraction variables affecting the gum yield from durian seeds, to assess the influence of ultrasound pretreatment on extraction yield and functional properties and to examine the gum’s applicability as a stabilizer in mung bean milk. Materials and Methods: Gum was extracted from durian seed flour using a one-factor-at-a-time approach to investigate the effect on gum yield of the water-to-flour ratio (20:1–60:1, volume per weight, v/w), extraction temperature (30−70°C), pH (5−13) and extraction time (0.5−2.5 hr). Ultrasound pretreatment (20 kHz, 100−500 W, 1−5 min) was applied prior to extraction under selected conventional conditions. The extracted gum was characterized for physicochemical, functional and structural properties and evaluated as a stabilizer in mung bean milk. Results: The highest conventional yield (16.80%, dry basis) was obtained at a 40:1 (v/w) water-toflour ratio, 70°C, pH 11 and 2 hr extraction. Ultrasound pretreatment at 300 W for 3 min significantly (p < 0.05) increased yield to 19.93%, representing an approximately 19% increase over the conventional conditions. The gum had a near-neutral pH (6.91), low moisture content (5.44%), high water- (210 g/100 g) and oil-holding (123 g/100 g) capacities and a concentration-dependent viscosity. Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analyses indicated a carbohydrate-rich, predominantly amorphous heteropolysaccharide. In mung bean milk, 0.06% (weight per weight) gum improved the viscosity and reduced phase separation, while maintaining acceptable pourability. Main finding: Ultrasound-assisted extraction improved durian seed gum recovery and enhanced its potential application as a clean-label, plant-derived stabilizer for beverage systems.

Drying-dependent changes in phytochemicals and bioactivities of Curcuma stahlianthoides Škorničk. & Soonthornk., a vulnerable endemic Thai species

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: There is a lack of documentation regarding the nutritional and phytochemical composition and bioactivities of Curcuma stahlianthoides Škorničk. & Soonthornk., an endemic species in Thailand, as well as the effects of drying methods on these properties.

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of sun drying and freeze drying on the phytochemicals and bioactivities of C. stahlianthoides rhizomes.

Materials and Methods: Rhizomes were sun-dried or freeze-dried, ground into powder and analyzed for proximate composition, total curcuminoid content (using highperformance liquid chromatography), total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant activities (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6- sulfonic acid and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power assays) and antibacterial activity based on minimum inhibitory concentration determination.

Results: The freeze-dried samples contained higher fat (4.16%) and protein (3.44%) contents than the sun-dried samples (3.28% and 2.93%, respectively), while the carbohydrate content was comparable at approximately 78%. The freeze-dried samples had a higher mean ± SD total phenolic content (1.67 ± 0.08 mg gallic acid equivalents/g) and total flavonoid content (4.82 ± 0.17 mg quercetin equivalents/g) than the sun-dried extracts (p < 0.05). Antioxidant activities and antibacterial effects were also enhanced, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 12.5–25 mg/mL. Extraction yields were 2.75% for the sun-dried and 2.18% for the freezedried samples, while the total curcuminoid content was 12.95 µg/g dry weight and 14.11 µg/g dry weight, respectively. The total phenolic content had a strong positive correlation with antioxidant activities (Pearson’s correlation coefficient > 0.90, p < 0.05).

Main finding: Drying methods influenced phytochemical retention and related antioxidant and antibacterial activities of C. stahlianthoides, offering new insight into post-harvest processing and utilization of this rare Thai species.

In silico design, expression and initial immunoreactivity of TL5,6 multi-epitope chimeric protein derived from Tilapia Lake Virus S5 and S6 segment proteins

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Importance of the work: The application of multi-epitope antigen design for TiLV remains limited, prompting investigation of its potential as an alternative antigen strategy for TiLV vaccine development. Objectives: To develop the TL5,6 protein by fusing predicted epitopes from TiLV segments 5 and 6 and to perform an initial evaluation of its immunoreactivity. Materials and Methods: Predicted B-cell epitopes from TiLV segment proteins 5 and 6 were used to design the TL5,6 protein. Structural and physicochemical properties were analyzed bioinformatically. TL5,6 was expressed in Escherichia coli and then purified and formulated with Freund’s incomplete adjuvant for immunization in Nile tilapia. Serum immunoreactivity was assessed based on dot blot assay, while molecular docking and immune simulation were used as supportive computational analyses. Results: TL5,6 was developed using molecular design and immunoinformatic analysis, in which the B-cell epitopes of segments 5 and 6 were combined into a single molecule. A soluble form of the TL5,6 protein was expressed successfully and purified from E. coli BL21 (DE3). The dot blot analysis showed that the serum obtained from TL5,6- immunized fish reacted with both the S5196–272 and S6200–317 antigens and also recognized TiLV particles. Molecular docking analysis predicted an interaction between TL5,6 and TLR4, with the lowest binding energy of -1,170 kJ/mol and 29 hydrogen bonds observed at the interface region. Furthermore, immune simulation predicted increased Thcell and B-cell populations, elevated IgM and IgG levels and upregulation of IL-2 and IFN-γ related responses following TL5,6 immunization. Main finding: TL5,6 demonstrated preliminary immunoreactivity and may serve as a potential antigen for future TiLV vaccine development. However, further studies are needed to evaluate its protective efficacy, including quantitative immune analyses and challenge experiments