Plant secondary metabolites against black Sigatoka and chili wilt diseases caused by fungi

Abstract

In agriculture, one of the fundamental inputs for maintaining plant health and productivity is the use of synthetic fungicides. However, their excessive application can lead to the emergence of resistant fungal strains, increased environmental contamination, and health problems, not to mention the economic impact. A promising alternative for managing agricultural diseases is the use of plant-derived biofungicides. Among these, the secondary metabolites berberine, sanguinarine, and caffeine, stand out, having shown potential to inhibit the development of various fungal pathogens, such as Pseudocercospora fijiensis, a pathogenic fungus of banana (Musa sp.), and Phytophthora capsici, a pathogenic pseudofungi (oomycete) of chili peppers (Capsicum sp.).