Effect of <i>Fusarium proliferatum</i> infection on physiological, phytochemical, and nutrient responses in garlic

<i>Fusarium</i> species are significant pathogens in many crops, including garlic (<i>Allium sativum</i>), threatening yield and food safety through mycotoxin production. This study investigates the physiological, phytochemical, and nutrient responses of garlic genotypes (Local-Konya, Babaeski-Kırklareli, and Iranian-Balıkesir) to <i>Fusarium proliferatum</i> infection. Phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, protein content, and macro- and microelement levels were assessed in healthy and infected garlic genotypes. Infection by <i>F. proliferatum</i> led to a significant increase in phenolic compounds, especially resveratrol and catechin. The Iranian-Balıkesir genotype exhibited the highest response, showing a 110.9% rise in total phenolic content. Regarding antioxidant activity, 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazy (DPPH) inhibition also rose in all genotypes with the rate of 41.57-55.5% in diseased groups in comparison with healthy groups. However, the protein content of garlic was declined by infection of <i>F. proliferatum</i> in all genotypes. Elemental analysis revealed that there were notable drops in potassium and calcium levels, particularly in Local-Konya genotype, but the other elements in plants either increased or decreased accordingly. It was observed that garlic genotypes responded differently to <i>F. proliferatum</i> infection in organic acid components. These findings highlighted that <i>F. proliferatum</i> infestation in garlic enhanced phenolic production and antioxidant activities as a defense mechanism, but the amount of nutrient content of plants according to fertilization will also affect developing resistance to disease physiologically.