Boosting Monacolin K and Pigment Production in Monascus with 5-Azacytidine
Author Information
Author(s): Zhang Chan, Wang Haijiao, Sun Qing, Ablimit Arzugul, Dong Huijun, Wang Congcong, Zhai Duchen, Zhang Bobo, Hu Wenlin, Liu Chengjian, Wang Chengtao, Chen Fusheng, Shao Yanchun
Primary Institution: Beijing Technology & Business University (BTBU), Beijing, China
Hypothesis
5-azacytidine may influence the growth and development of Monascus during the G1 phase.
Conclusion
The study found that adding 5-azacytidine significantly increased the production of Monacolin K and pigments in Monascus strains.
Supporting Evidence
- 5-azacytidine treatment led to a 58.6% increase in Monacolin K yield in Monascus M1.
- Red pigment production increased by 19.6% in Monascus M1 and 15.6% in Monascus RP2 after treatment.
- Electron microscopy showed that 5-azacytidine-treated strains had more surface wrinkles and filaments.
Takeaway
Researchers added a special chemical called 5-azacytidine to certain fungi to help them make more useful substances, like a natural color and a cholesterol-lowering compound.
Methodology
The study measured dry weight, pigment values, and Monacolin K yield of Monascus strains after adding 5-azacytidine during fermentation.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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