Abstract:

The effect of α -terpineol at various concentrations on the morphology and mycelial growth of Penicillium
italicum was evaluated, and the corresponding mechanism was explored. Results showed that α-terpineol had a significant
inhibitory effect on the mycelial growth of P. italicum, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal
concentration (MFC) of 2.00 and 8.00 μL/mL, respectively. After being treated with α-terpineol at MIC or MFC, marked
increases in the extracellular pH, extracellular conductivity and absorbance at 260 nm were observed. Moreover, a decrease
in total lipid content was also observed. Our research indicated that α-terpineol can increase the membrane permeability
and destroy the integrity of the membrane of P. italicum, thus resulting in the leakage of cellular materials and inhibiting the
mycelial growth of P. italicum.

Key words: α-terpineol, Penicillium italicum, cell membrane, inhibitory effect