Biochemical potential of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum strains: optimization of enzyme production and the role of oxalic acid in virulence.

This study evaluated the production of cellulase, pectinase, amylase, and oxalic acid in different strains of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum under varying pH and temperature conditions. All strains produced cellulase and pectinase, with strain SSIT1 showing the highest activities. Optimum cellulase and pectinase production occurred at pH 6.0 and 30 °C. Amylase activity varied among strains, with SSIT1 again being the most efficient producer, showing maximum activity at pH 6.0 and 25 °C. All strains secreted oxalic acid, with SSIT1 producing the highest levels. The consistency of optimum conditions across enzymes highlights pH 6.0 and moderate temperatures (25–30 °C) as favorable for enzyme activity. Notably, a positive correlation was observed between oxalic acid production and pathogenicity, with SSIT1 emerging as the most virulent strain and the highest oxalic acid producer, whereas less virulent strains secreted lower levels. These findings suggest that oxalic acid plays a critical role in disease development. Overall, the study identifies SSIT1 as a robust strain capable of producing high levels of cellulase, pectinase, amylase, and oxalic acid. Its strong enzymatic profile not only enhances understanding of fungal pathogenicity but also underscores its potential for diverse biotechnological applications where hydrolytic enzymes are of industrial importance.