Fungal Endophytes
in Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa: Approach for Histological Localization and Enzymes
Estimation
Dhar Irra, Sharma Rakesh Kumar and Sharma Madan Mohan
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(8); 54-63;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/208rjbt054063; (2025)
Abstract
In plant-microbe interactions, endophytic fungi are essential because they support
the growth, stress tolerance and disease resistance of the host plant. The fungal
endophytes of Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa, a medicinal plant with pharmacological
qualities, are the subject of this investigation. Seasonal differences in fungal
diversity were revealed by isolating endophytes from various plant tissues collected
over the course of three seasons. Fungal colonization in plant tissues was shown
by histological localization. There were 42 fungal taxa found in all. Several isolates
exhibited amylolytic, proteolytic, cellulolytic and lipolytic activities, demonstrating
the metabolic capability of endophytes as evidenced by enzymatic processes. The
breakdown of macromolecules, fungal colonization and biotechnological applications
all depends on these enzymes.
The results demonstrate the metabolic diversity and ecological importance of Aegle
marmelos endophytes. Their potential for use in industry, agriculture and pharmaceuticals
is highlighted by their capacity to create extracellular enzymes and bioactive chemicals.
Plant-endophyte interactions are improved by this work, which also lays the groundwork
for future research into endophytes as a source of new bioactive substances and
environmentally friendly solutions for a range of sectors.
