EVALUATION OF THE INHIBITORY ACTION OF CHITOSAN HYDROCHLORIDE ON ASPERGILLUS SP. AND AFLATOXIN PRODUCTION IN VITRO
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/arev8n3-040Keywords:
Aspergillus, Aflatoxin, ChitosanAbstract
Introduction: Fungal contamination is a problem that compromises food quality and poses risks to human health. Fungi of the genus Aspergillus are the main contaminants and producers of aflatoxins (AF). AFs are chemically stable, heat-resistant, and highly toxic secondary metabolites. From this perspective, the use of natural compounds capable of preventing these problems emerges as a promising alternative. Objective: In this work, the potential of chitosan hydrochloride (CQ) with antifungal and AF-inhibiting action was evaluated. Methods: In vitro experiments were performed using the microdilution technique to evaluate cell viability, as well as in vitro experiments in Aspergillus flavus and Parasiticus agar (AFPA) and Coconut Milk Agar (LCA) culture media to evaluate AF production. Results: In in vitro tests, treatments with CQ inhibited fungal growth (p>0.05) in AFPA and LCA media. Macroscopic changes in fungal structure were observed; the mycelium maintained its spherical growth, but presented an elevated center, indicating separation from the culture medium in all treated plates. Changes in colony coloration were also observed in the test groups compared to the control, showing a change from opaque green to brown from the third day of evaluation. AF production was also inhibited in all culture media tested. Conclusion: CQ showed satisfactory results, and it is expected that its action can be potentiated by synergy with other antifungal compounds, representing a potential field of study for future research.
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