Production and Application of Enzymes from Entomopathogenic Fungi in Biological Control
摘要
Biological pest control has gained increasing attention as a sustainable alternative to the excessive use of chemical pesticides, which pose risks such as insect resistance, environmental contamination, and threats to human health. Entomopathogenic fungi, particularly from the genera Beauveria, Metarhizium, and Ophiocordyceps, represent promising biocontrol agents due to their specificity in infecting and eliminating target pests, minimizing effects on non-target organisms. A key factor in their pathogenicity is the secretion of hydrolytic enzymes, including chitinases, proteases, and lipases, which degrade vital host structures such as the insect cuticle, enabling successful infection and colonization. This chapter reviews the production, optimization, and application of these fungal enzymes in the development of biopesticides, covering molecular mechanisms and advanced production and purification methods, as well as innovative formulation strategies such as encapsulation and enzyme cocktails. Challenges related to culture medium optimization, enzyme stability, and industrial scalability are also discussed. Emphasizing the potential of fungal enzymes as eco-friendly biocatalysts, this work advocates the integration of scientific advances, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable agricultural practices to promote enzymatic biopesticides as a vital component of integrated pest management strategies. Furthermore, continued development in this field can contribute to reducing agriculture’s environmental impact and fostering more resilient and efficient production systems.