Linoleic acid functions as a quorum‐sensing molecule in Monascus purpureus–Saccharomyces cerevisiae co‐culture

Abstract

When Monascus purpureus was co-cultured with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we noted significant changes in the secondary metabolism and morphological development of Monascus. In yeast co-culture, although the pH was not different from that of a control, the Monascus mycelial biomass increased during fermentation, and the Monacolin K yield was significantly enhanced (up to 58.87% higher). However, pigment production did not increase. Co-culture with S. cerevisiae significantly increased the expression levels of genes related to Monacolin K production (mokA-mokI), especially mokE, mokF, and mokG. Linoleic acid, that has been implicated in playing a regulating role in the secondary metabolism and morphology of Monascus, was hypothesized to be the effector. Linoleic acid was detected in the co-culture, and its levels changed during fermentation. Addition of linoleic acid increased Monacolin K production and caused similar morphological changes in Monascus spores and mycelia. Exogenous linoleic acid also significantly upregulated the transcription levels of all nine genes involved in the biosynthesis of Monacolin K (up to 69.50% higher), consistent with the enhanced Monacolin K yield.Taken together, our results showed the effect of S. cerevisiae co-culture on M. purpureus and suggested linoleic acid as a specific quorum-sensing molecule in Saccharomyces-Monascus co-culture.

Unlocking fungal quorum sensing: Oxylipins and yeast interactions enhance secondary metabolism in monascus

“…In conclusion, our research provides a deeper understanding of interspecies quorum sensing in Monascus , offering pathways to optimize MK and pigment production, which have significant implications for the food and pharmaceutical sectors [ [44] , [45] , [46] ]. Future research will focus on delineating the specific mechanisms of oxylipins as signaling molecules and their extensive impact on Monascus 's morphological and metabolic pathways.…”

Enhancing Monascus Pellet Formation for Improved Secondary Metabolite Production

“…This dehydration procedure, lasting 10 min for each concentration and repeated twice, was utilized. Subsequently, the morphology of the pellets, post-gold spraying, was examined under SEM [20]. The internal mycelial structure of the pellets was observed by employing the paraffin sectioning technique.…”