Endophytic fungus found in wheat seeds shows promise against deadly STB disease
Researchers discovered that the naturally occurring fungus Chaetomium globosum, present in wheat seeds, can markedly suppress Septoria tritici blotch, a major wheat disease.
A naturally occurring endophytic fungus, Chaetomium globosum, was detected inside wheat seeds and found to dramatically reduce the impact of Septoria tritici blotch (STB), a disease that can halve wheat yields. Amir Mirzadi Gohari’s group screened 45 seed-dwelling fungi and selected this strain because it lowered leaf lesions by 74% and spore-producing structures by 82% in the most susceptible wheat variety. Angela Feechan reported that the fungus activates wheat immune responses, secretes antifungal metabolites, and may promote growth by producing ammonia, auxin, and facilitating iron uptake.
Laboratory sprays inhibited spore germination by over 80%, and greenhouse trials confirmed disease reduction. Ongoing work includes genome sequencing to pinpoint the antifungal molecules and developing practical delivery methods such as seed coatings or field sprays. The study was a joint effort by the University of Tehran, Heriot-Watt University and University College Dublin, funded by the Iran National Science Foundation and published in Scientific Reports.
