Paula de la Huerta Bengoechea

Ms. Paula de la Huerta Bengoechea


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

5Years (2022-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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27 October 2022 in Journal of Fungi
Verified
Journal Article
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PBPaula de la Huerta Bengoechea
Paula de la Huerta Bengoechea
Jessica Gil-SernaJessica Gil-Serna
Jessica Gil-Serna
CMClara Melguizo
Clara Melguizo
Antonio J. RamosAntonio J. Ramos
Antonio J. Ramos
MPMontserrat Prim
Montserrat Prim
Belén PatiñoBelén Patiño
Belén Patiño
The presence of mycotoxin-producing Aspergillus species in vineyards is a problem for food safety and the economy. In addition, rising temperatures due to climate change are modifying microbial communities, causing the replacement of some fungal species and the rise of mycotoxins such as aflatoxins. The use of microorganisms as biological control agents (BCAs) is one of the most promising strategies to prevent fungal growth and toxin production. In this study, 513 microorganisms were isolated from organic vineyard soils in different regions of Spain. The 480 bacteria and 33 yeasts isolated were sequentially screened to select those with the most suitable characteristics to be used as BCAs. After identifying 16 isolates meeting all requirements, six bacterial isolates were selected to test their potential to control three relevant toxigenic grape fungi in vitro: A. carbonarius, A. niger and A. flavus. Isolates of Arthrobacter sp., Rhodococcus sp. and Bacillus mycoides showed an excellent ability to reduce the growth and mycotoxin concentration of the above-mentioned fungi and represent potential candidates for further study regarding their possible industrial application as a BCA.