Fungi are well known for their ability to synthesize secondary metabolites, which have proven to be a rich resource for exploring lead compounds with medicinal and/or agricultural importance. The genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Talaromyces are the most widely studied fungal groups, from which a plethora of bioactive metabolites have been characterized. However, relatively little attention has been paid to the genus Paecilomyces, which has been reported to possess great potential for its application as a biocontrol agent. Meanwhile, a wide structural array of metabolites with attractive bioactivities has been reported from this genus. This review attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of Paecilomyces species, with emphasis on the chemical diversity and relevant biological activities of these metabolic products. Herein, a total of 148 compounds and 80 references are cited in this review, which is expected to be beneficial for the development of medicines and agrochemicals in the near future.
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.