Influence of light on the biosynthesis of ophiobolin A by Bipolaris maydis

Ophiobolin A (O-A) is a sesterpenoid with numerous biological activities, including potential anticancer effects. Its production at an industrial level is hampered due to inability of fungus Bipolaris maydis to biosynthesise it in vitro in large amount. Among the environmental factors regulating fungal metabolism, light plays a crucial role. In this study, the use of different light wavelength (light emitting diodes (LEDs)) was evaluated to increase the O-A production. The white light allowed the highest production of the metabolite. The blue and green lights showed an inhibitory effect, reducing the production to 50%, as well as red and yellow but at a lower level. No correlation between fungal growth and metabolite production was found in relation to the light type. A novel application of LED technologies, which can be optimised to foster specific pathways and promote the production of metabolites having scientific and industrial interest was proposed.