Interactions of tagatose with the sugar metabolism are responsible for Phytophthora infestans growth inhibition

Tagatose is a rare sugar metabolised by limited number of microorganisms that inhibits large spectrum phytopathogens. In particular, tagatose inhibited Phytophthora infestans growth and negatively affected mitochondrial processes. However, the possible effects on P. metabolism have not yet been investigated. The aim this study was to analyse impact in infestans, order better understand its mode action. with precise reprogramming carbohydrate involved decrease glucose, glucose-1-phosphate mannose content β-glucosidase activity. combination common sugars led three different responses highlighted antagonistic interactions. glucose partially attenuated inhibitory tagatose, while fructose fully impaired tagatose-mediated inhibition metabolite changes. Moreover, sucrose did attenuate effects, suggesting catabolism alteration glucose-related pathways contributed caused infestans. interactions were found be key action against growth, which may represent basis for further development as an eco-friendly fungicide.