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Fungal Biodeterioration
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Fungal Biodeterioration

A special issue of Journal of Fungi (ISSN 2309-608X). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental and Ecological Interactions of Fungi".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 June 2023) | Viewed by 8581

Special Issue Editors

Dr. António Manuel Santos Carriço Portugal

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
2. Fitolab, Laboratory for Phytopathology, Instituto Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal
Interests: mycology; biodeterioration; cultural heritage; genetics; phytopathology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. João Trovão

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
2. Fitolab, Laboratory for Phytopathology, Instituto Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal
Interests: mycology; fungal taxonomy; -omics; culture-dependent methods; rock-inhabiting fungi; cultural heritage biodeterioration

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Being enormously versatile, ubiquitous and metabolically diverse organisms, fungi are able to grow on a vast number of valuable cultural heritage artifacts and building materials, contributing to the development of drastic biodeterioration phenomena. Due to their physical and chemical actions, they are regarded as one of the most important groups of microorganisms contributing to the deterioration of cultural heritage artifacts, monuments and buildings. During recent years, -omics technologies have revolutionized the way we understand the fungal diversity on these supports, while also helping to understand some of their metabolic functions and their deteriorative by-products. On the other hand, these techniques have also highlighted that many cultural heritage and building materials are inhabited by various still-unknown fungal species, the biodeteriorative properties of which remain unidentified. Moreover, multiple specific fungal biodeterioration mechanisms have recently started to be deeply characterized. Understanding how the diversity of these microorganisms is shaped and how their action affects cultural heritage and building materials worldwide is imperative for the development of control measures and for the preservation of these treasures for future generations.

This Special Issue will focus specifically on biodeteriorating fungi, and aims to publish outstanding cutting-edge studies shedding light on the fungal diversity and biodeterioration mechanisms affecting cultural heritage and building materials.

Dr. António Manuel Santos Carriço Portugal
Dr. João Trovão 
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Fungi is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

 

Keywords

  • books
  • paper
  • parchment
  • textiles
  • photographs
  • paintings
  • sculptures
  • wooden materials
  • rock
  • stone materials
  • concrete
  • tiles
  • ceramics
  • stone monuments
  • murals
  • wall paintings
  • mummies
  • funerary accessories
  • enzymatic action
  • acid attack
  • biopitting
  • microfungi
  • black fungi
  • -omics
  • metabarcoding
  • culture-dependent methods

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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23 pages, 2936 KiB  
Article
Degradation Potential of Xerophilic and Xerotolerant Fungi Contaminating Historic Canvas Paintings
by Amela Kujović, Cene Gostinčar, Katja Kavkler, Natalija Govedić, Nina Gunde-Cimerman and Polona Zalar
J. Fungi 2024, 10(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10010076 - 18 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1269
Abstract
Fungi are important contaminants of historic canvas paintings worldwide. They can grow on both sides of the canvas and decompose various components of the paintings. They excrete pigments and acids that change the visual appearance of the paintings and weaken their structure, leading [...] Read more.
Fungi are important contaminants of historic canvas paintings worldwide. They can grow on both sides of the canvas and decompose various components of the paintings. They excrete pigments and acids that change the visual appearance of the paintings and weaken their structure, leading to flaking and cracking. With the aim of recognizing the most dangerous fungal species to the integrity and stability of paintings, we studied 55 recently isolated and identified strains from historic paintings or depositories, including 46 species from 16 genera. The fungi were categorized as xero/halotolerant or xero/halophilic based on their preference for solutes (glycerol or NaCl) that lower the water activity (aw) of the medium. Accordingly, the aw value of all further test media had to be adjusted to allow the growth of xero/halophilic species. The isolates were tested for growth at 15, 24 °C and 37 °C. The biodeterioration potential of the fungi was evaluated by screening their acidification properties, their ability to excrete pigments and their enzymatic activities, which were selected based on the available nutrients in paintings on canvas. A DNase test was performed to determine whether the selected fungi could utilize DNA of dead microbial cells that may be covering surfaces of the painting. The sequestration of Fe, which is made available through the production of siderophores, was also tested. The ability to degrade aromatic and aliphatic substrates was investigated to consider the potential degradation of synthetic restoration materials. Xerotolerant and moderately xerophilic species showed a broader spectrum of enzymatic activities than obligate xerophilic species: urease, β-glucosidase, and esterase predominated, while obligate xerophiles mostly exhibited β-glucosidase, DNase, and urease activity. Xerotolerant and moderately xerophilic species with the highest degradation potential belong to the genus Penicillium, while Aspergillus penicillioides and A. salinicola represent obligately xerophilic species with the most diverse degradation potential in low aw environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biodeterioration)
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19 pages, 6020 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Variations in Fungal Communities on the Surfaces of Lan Na Sandstone Sculptures and Their Biodeterioration Capacities
by Paradha Nonthijun, Natasha Mills, Nantana Mills, Rujipas Yongsawas, Chakriya Sansupa, Nakarin Suwannarach, Churdsak Jaikang, Kannipa Motanated, Pattarasuda Chayapakdee, Surachai Jongjitngam, Nuttapol Noirungsee and Terd Disayathanoowat
J. Fungi 2023, 9(8), 833; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof9080833 - 08 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1172
Abstract
Environmental factors and climate are the primary factors influencing the microbial colonization and deterioration of cultural heritage in outdoor environments. Hence, it is imperative to investigate seasonal variations in microbial communities and the biodeterioration they cause. This study investigated the surfaces of sandstone [...] Read more.
Environmental factors and climate are the primary factors influencing the microbial colonization and deterioration of cultural heritage in outdoor environments. Hence, it is imperative to investigate seasonal variations in microbial communities and the biodeterioration they cause. This study investigated the surfaces of sandstone sculptures at Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, Chiang Mai, Thailand, during wet and dry seasons using culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches. The fungi isolated from the sandstone sculptures were assessed for biodeterioration attributes including drought tolerance, acid production, calcium crystal formation, and calcium precipitation. The results show that most of the fungal isolates exhibited significant potential for biodeterioration activities. Furthermore, a culture-independent approach was employed to investigate the fungal communities and assess their diversity, interrelationship, and predicted function. The fungal diversity and the communities varied seasonally. The functional prediction indicated that pathotroph–saprotroph fungi comprised the main fungal guild in the dry season, and pathotroph–saprotroph–symbiotroph fungi comprised the dominant guild in the wet season. Remarkably, a network analysis revealed numerous positive correlations among fungal taxa within each season, suggesting a potential synergy that promotes the biodeterioration of sandstone. These findings offer valuable insights into seasonal variations in fungal communities and their impacts on the biodeterioration of sandstone sculptures. This information can be utilized for monitoring, management, and maintenance strategies aimed at preserving this valuable cultural heritage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biodeterioration)
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16 pages, 1882 KiB  
Article
Characterization of the Community of Black Meristematic Fungi Inhabiting the External White Marble of the Florence Cathedral
by Letizia Berti, Massimiliano Marvasi and Brunella Perito
J. Fungi 2023, 9(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof9060665 - 13 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1100
Abstract
Meristematic black fungi are a highly damaging group of microorganisms responsible for the deterioration of outdoor exposed monuments. Their resilience to various stresses poses significant challenges for removal efforts. This study focuses on the community of meristematic fungi inhabiting the external white marble [...] Read more.
Meristematic black fungi are a highly damaging group of microorganisms responsible for the deterioration of outdoor exposed monuments. Their resilience to various stresses poses significant challenges for removal efforts. This study focuses on the community of meristematic fungi inhabiting the external white marble of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, where they contribute to its darkening. Twenty-four strains were isolated from two differently exposed sites of the Cathedral, and their characterization was conducted. Phylogenetic analysis using ITS and LSU rDNA regions revealed a wide diversity of rock-inhabiting fungal strains within the sampled areas. Eight strains, belonging to different genera, were also tested for thermal preferences, salt tolerance, and acid production to investigate their tolerance to environmental stressors and their interaction with stone. All tested strains were able to grow in the range of 5–30 °C, in the presence 5% NaCl, and seven out of eight strains were positive for the production of acid. Their sensitivities to essential oils of thyme and oregano and to the commercial biocide Biotin T were also tested. The essential oils were found to be the most effective against black fungi growth, indicating the possibility of developing a treatment with a low environmental impact. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biodeterioration)
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19 pages, 3968 KiB  
Article
Exploring Differences in Culturable Fungal Diversity Using Standard Freezing Incubation—A Case Study in the Limestones of Lemos Pantheon (Portugal)
by Diana S. Paiva, Luís Fernandes, Emília Pereira, João Trovão, Nuno Mesquita, Igor Tiago and António Portugal
J. Fungi 2023, 9(4), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof9040501 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1757
Abstract
In this study, we explored the biodiversity and abundance of culturable fungi in four samples associated with different biodeterioration outlines collected from the Lemos Pantheon, a limestone-built artwork in Portugal. We compared the results from prolonged standard freezing with those previously obtained from [...] Read more.
In this study, we explored the biodiversity and abundance of culturable fungi in four samples associated with different biodeterioration outlines collected from the Lemos Pantheon, a limestone-built artwork in Portugal. We compared the results from prolonged standard freezing with those previously obtained from fresh samples to analyze differences in the obtained community and assess the effectiveness of the standard freezing incubation protocol in uncovering a different segment of culturable fungal diversity. Our results showed a slight decrease in culturable diversity, but over 70% of the obtained isolates were not present in the previously studied fresh samples. We also identified a high number of potential new species with this procedure. Moreover, the use of a wide variety of selective culture media positively influenced the diversity of the cultivable fungi obtained in this study. These findings highlight the importance of developing new protocols under varying conditions to accurately characterize the culturable fraction in a given sample. The identification and study of these communities and their possible contribution to the biodeterioration process is crucial knowledge for formulating effective conservation and restoration plans to prevent further damage to valuable cultural heritage assets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biodeterioration)
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Review

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13 pages, 3178 KiB  
Review
Fungal Biodegradation of Polyurethanes
by Clotilde Maestri, Lionel Plancher, Alexis Duthoit, Ronan L. Hébert and Patrick Di Martino
J. Fungi 2023, 9(7), 760; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof9070760 - 19 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2186
Abstract
Polyurethanes (PURs) are versatile polymers used in a wide variety of fields, such as the medical, automotive, textile, thermal insulation, and coating industries as well as many everyday objects. Many PURs have applications that require a long service life, sometimes with exposure to [...] Read more.
Polyurethanes (PURs) are versatile polymers used in a wide variety of fields, such as the medical, automotive, textile, thermal insulation, and coating industries as well as many everyday objects. Many PURs have applications that require a long service life, sometimes with exposure to aggressive conditions. They can undergo different types of physicochemical and biological degradation, but they are not compostable, and many of them constitute persistent waste in the environment. Although both bacteria and fungi can be involved in the degradation of PURs, fungi are often the main biodegradation agents. The chemical structure of PURs determines their degree of biodegradation. Fungal biodegradation of PURs is linked to the production of enzymes, mainly esterases and proteases, alongside laccases, peroxidases, and tyrosinases, which can modify the structure of polyurethane compounds by forming carbonyl groups. The experimental analysis of the biodegradation of PUR can be carried out by bringing the polymer into contact with a mold in pure culture or with a microbial consortium. Then, global measurements can be taken, such as weight loss, tensile tests, or the ability of microorganisms to grow in the presence of PUR as the sole carbon source. The analysis of the chemical structure of the polymer and its degradation products after fungal growth can confirm biodegradation and specify the mechanism. The main avenues of future research are directed towards the development of fully biodegradable PURs and, on the contrary, towards the development of PURs that are more resistant to degradation phenomena, in particular biodegradation, for applications where the material is in contact with living organisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Biodeterioration)
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