Researchers are increasingly focusing on fungal endophytes because of their unique potential to synthesise diverse bioactive molecules. These substances, i.e. alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and peptides, demonstrate strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and preservative effects, positioning them as highly valuable for potential use in the food processing sector. As sources of bioactive compounds, fungal endophytes offer an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals commonly used in food enhancement. Their versatility has sparked increasing interest in their use as nutritional fortifiers, meeting the demand for safer, clean-label ingredients in food products. Endophyte-derived bioactive compounds not only extend shelf life by inhibiting spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms but also contribute to the conception of foods with added health benefits. In a market increasingly driven by consumer preference for natural, minimally processed ingredients, fungal endophytes present an untapped reservoir for the sustainable manufacture of critical bioactive molecules. This chapter explores the relationship between endophytes and their bioactive compound production capabilities. It also sheds light on these compounds’ isolation, characterisation, and application in food processing. Additionally, the chapter addresses current challenges, such as scalability and safety validation, and outlines prospects for harnessing this approach as a viable alternative in the industry. By incorporating endophyte-derived bioactive compounds, the food sector can move toward greener, health-conscious practices, aligning with consumer expectations and regulatory demands for sustainable innovation.

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Fungal Endophytes as a ‘Super House’ of Novel Bioactive Compounds

  • Devendra Sillu,
  • Navneet Kaur Dhiman,
  • Pranshu Saxena,
  • Nandini Sareen,
  • Gurleen Kaur Sodhi

摘要

Researchers are increasingly focusing on fungal endophytes because of their unique potential to synthesise diverse bioactive molecules. These substances, i.e. alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and peptides, demonstrate strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and preservative effects, positioning them as highly valuable for potential use in the food processing sector. As sources of bioactive compounds, fungal endophytes offer an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals commonly used in food enhancement. Their versatility has sparked increasing interest in their use as nutritional fortifiers, meeting the demand for safer, clean-label ingredients in food products. Endophyte-derived bioactive compounds not only extend shelf life by inhibiting spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms but also contribute to the conception of foods with added health benefits. In a market increasingly driven by consumer preference for natural, minimally processed ingredients, fungal endophytes present an untapped reservoir for the sustainable manufacture of critical bioactive molecules. This chapter explores the relationship between endophytes and their bioactive compound production capabilities. It also sheds light on these compounds’ isolation, characterisation, and application in food processing. Additionally, the chapter addresses current challenges, such as scalability and safety validation, and outlines prospects for harnessing this approach as a viable alternative in the industry. By incorporating endophyte-derived bioactive compounds, the food sector can move toward greener, health-conscious practices, aligning with consumer expectations and regulatory demands for sustainable innovation.