UC Davis research discovers promising new antifungal chemical

Researchers at the University of California, Davis, recently unlocked new molecular pathways in the development of new fungicides. A research team discovered the chemical ebselen prevented fungal infections in apples, grapes, strawberries, tomatoes and roses, according to a news report from the university.

Researchers believed blocking autophagy, a process for all fungi, plants and animals to recycle cellular components and remove toxic waste products, would prevent fungal infection. The research team selected ebselen out of 2,700 chemicals from a library of Food and Drug Administration-approved compounds. 

UC Davis said the research team observed ebselen’s ability to prevent fungal infections on many different plant species. It also shows some curative potential, too.

“We think ebselen will primarily be useful for protecting plants against future infections, but it can also partially overcome existing infections if it is used early enough,” said Savithramma Dinesh-Kumar, senior author and a professor and chair in UC Davis’ department of plant biology.

The research team needs to conduct further studies, UC Davis said on ebselen’s efficacy. The research team also said it will continue to use its screening process to evaluate future chemicals to prevent autophagy.