Biological effects of truffle extracts on bacteria, fungi, and microalgae

One of the current challenges on a global scale is the problem of antibiotic resistance. Excessive and inappropriate use of drugs in healthcare and agriculture has accelerated the development of diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In an effort to combat such resistance, it is extremely important to explore alternative sources of new molecules with biological activities. Truffles have become a promising source of new compounds because they contain a wide range of biologically active ingredients. In addition, they are a consortium of symbiotic microorganisms that produce natural products. The aim of this study was to study the antibiotic and growth stimulating effects of methanolic extracts of truffle fruiting bodies collected in Russia in 2020-2022. The extracts demonstrated inhibitory activity against St. carnosus, E. persicina, and kanamycin-resistant E. coli. Also, for the first time, we have demonstrated that truffle extracts have biological activity in terms of stimulating the growth of C. vulgaris. We have observed the effects of short-term and long-term growth stimulation. Thus, truffles can become a promising source of new active ingredients in medicine, agronomy, and different life sciences.