Untargeted GC–MS metabolic profiling of Eurotium chevalieri AUMC 16390 (PX498623) reveals a putative steroidal metabolite with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potential

This study investigated the exometabolome bioactive metabolites produced by Eurotium chevalieri AUMC 16,390 (accession number PX498623), a strain identified through ITS rDNA sequencing with 100% identity. The aim was to characterize its chemical profile and evaluate the biological activities of its major constituents. Metabolites present in the crude extract were analyzed using GC–MS, and ten major compounds were detected, spanning esters, diketones, terpenoids, and halogenated hydrocarbons. A predominant putative steroid-like metabolite, tentatively identified as 12-hydroxy-(5α,12β)-androstane-3,17-dione, accounted for 35.79% of the extract. Antibacterial activity of the crude extract was assessed against multiple bacterial strains. To elucidate potential mechanisms, molecular docking studies were conducted targeting enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (FabI). Additionally, the anti-inflammatory potential of the major steroidal compound was examined via predicted interactions with the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties were evaluated using SwissADME. The crude extract demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Docking analysis revealed favorable binding affinities of the major steroid-like metabolite toward FabI, supporting its potential antibacterial mechanism. The compound also showed high predicted affinity for the GR, suggesting possible anti-inflammatory activity. SwissADME results indicated acceptable drug-likeness features and favorable oral bioavailability parameters. Eurotium chevalieri AUMC 16,390 represents a promising source of bioactive fungal metabolites. The major putative steroidal component exhibits strong potential as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, providing a foundation for future experimental validation and development.