Botrytis cinerea chitinase (BcChi)

Botrytis cinerea chitinase is a key enzyme belonging to the glycosyl hydrolase family 18 (GH18) that plays a vital role in the life cycle and pathogenicity of the necrotrophic fungus Botrytis cinerea, the causative agent of gray mold [4, 6]. This enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of chitin, a primary structural component of fungal cell walls and septa, facilitating cell wall remodeling, nutrient acquisition, and spore germination [4, 7, 9]. Beyond its physiological roles, chitinase is a critical virulence factor that enables the fungus to invade host plant tissues and evade host defenses [2]. Due to its essentiality for fungal survival and infection, Botrytis cinerea chitinase has emerged as a promising target for the development of novel antifungal agents and food preservatives [1, 4]. Recent research has identified small molecules like dibenzylideneacetone (DBA) and 2-acetonaphthone as potent inhibitors that can suppress fungal growth and extend the shelf life of agricultural products [1, 4, 7].

Other names

BcChiABcChiBBotrytis cinerea glycosyl hydrolase family 18Fungal chitinaseEndochitinase

Inhibition of chitinase activity through competitive or allosteric binding, which disrupts fungal cell wall integrity and suppresses hyphal growth and spore germination.