Identification and characterization of Talaromyces purpureogenus for antimicrobial activity

Introduction: Fungi are a rich source of secondary metabolites that potentially could be used as chemotherapeutic, immunomodulatory, or antimicrobial agents. Penicillin was first extracted from a fungus almost one hundred years ago. This revolutionized the field of medicine and saved countless lives. Unfortunately, pathogenic bacteria and fungi have become resistant to the current arsenal of antimicrobial medications and the need for new and novel antimicrobials is becoming urgent. In this study we have isolated a strain of <i>Talaromyces purpureogenus</i> and have begun to characterize its antimicrobial properties. These fungi have been recognized as producers of metabolites with antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties.