Biodegradation of α-solanine and α-chaconine: Insights into microbial detoxification and enzymatic deglycosylation pathways

α-Solanine and α-chaconine are toxic steroidal glycoalkaloids found in the peel, sprout, leaf, and stem of potatoes. These toxins may exceed safe consumption limits and cause adverse health effects in processed potato products. Moreover, the environmental accumulation of these compounds from potato waste and byproducts may disrupt microbial communities and pose risks to aquatics and can potentially reintroduce toxins into the food chain. This review explores the biological degradation of α-solanine and α-chaconine, with a focus on microbial processes mediated by fungi (Plectosphaerella, Gibberella, Aspergillus, Penicillium), plant pathogens (Phytophthora infestans) and bacteria (Arthrobacter, Bacillus, Glutamicibacter). It highlights key glycosidases such as α-rhamnosidase (RhaA), β-glucosidase (GluA), and β-galactosidase (GalA) that are involved in deglycosylation and detoxification. A comprehensive review of the literature conducted through PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted to analyze relevant studies. Elucidating these degradation processes will help enhance in our understanding of glycoalkaloid deglycosylation and provide valuable insights into the development of effective strategies to mitigate glycoalkaloid contamination in food products and reduce the environmental impact.