Phytochemical distribution, antimicrobial activity, enzyme production of phylogenetically differentiated endophytes from Solanum violaceum Ortega fruits

Abstract

The aim of the present work is to isolate, identify endophytic fungi from edible fruits and to test the efficacy on nosocomial microbes. Healthy and asymptomatic unripe and ripe fruits of Solanum violaceum were studied for the presence of endophytes. Twelve endophytic fungi were isolated and identified on the basis of Internal Transcribed Spacer sequences. Screened the fungi for presence and absence of phytochemicals and enzymes; and antimicrobial activity of endophytes was studied by testing against human nosocomial pathogens. Diversity of fungal endophytes was more in ripe fruits as evidenced by diversity indices viz ., Simpson’s diversity (0.834) and Shannon– Weiner indices (H’- 0.474). Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, glycoside, gum and mucilage. Isolates produced amylases (33.33%), lipases (58.32) and asparaginase (80%) but not laccase and protease enzymes. Alternaria sp, Cladosporium tenuissimum , Mycosphaerellaceae sp., Curvularia beasleyi and Alternaria alternata showed activity against S. aureus , E. coli and K. pneumoniae . Curvularia beasleyi exhibited similar antifungal activity against C. albicans and C. tropicalis (20±2mm). Morphological changes of mycelia were noted after 96 h of treatment. To conclude, fungal endophytes might be potential agents for production of useful enzymes and to control microbes.