Efficient Phorbol Ester Biodegradation by Pleurotus pulmonarius: Insights Following Cultivation on Jatropha Cake

Cultivation of the oilseed crop Jatropha curcas generates residue, which contains both proteins and toxic phorbol esters (PEs). This study investigated degradation of PEs following cultivation of Pleurotus pulmonarius on toxic jatropha cake. Residual PE was quantified using a sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography method for detection at trace levels. Degradation kinetics revealed a 90% decrease in PEs within 12 days of cultivation, and reduction to non-toxic levels after 21 days. Specific fungal crude enzyme extracts (containing proteases, laccases, and manganese peroxidases) were efficient in degradation, with the elimination of up to 60% of PEs within 36 h. Analysis revealed a notable increase in fungal enzymatic activity after PE reduction, notably after 12 days. Data indicate PE biodegradation via cultivation and through crude enzyme extracts, involving synergism between hydrolytic and oxidative enzymes. The study highlights potential of the P. pulmonarius/jatropha cake model in biorefinery models and provides insights into mechanisms involved in PE biodegradation.