Microbial Enzymes: Accelerating Resin Production
1. What They Are
Microbial enzymes are biologically produced proteins from fungi or microbes that break down plant cell walls and tissues, making it easier for the tree to produce resin.
- Found in inoculants like FusaBlaze™
- Work synergistically with biotic and abiotic triggers
2. How They Work Step-by-Step
A. Cell Wall Degradation
- Tree cell walls are composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin
- Microbial enzymes (like cellulases, pectinases, xylanases) soften or partially degrade these structures
- Creates micro-channels and tissue openings in the xylem
Effect: Easier fungal colonization and chemical penetration
B. Activation of Tree Defense
- The tree senses structural damage and enzyme metabolites as a threat
- Defense pathways are activated:
- Jasmonic acid (JA)
- Salicylic acid (SA)
- Ethylene signaling
Effect: Tree starts producing resin to block and defend against invasion
C. Accelerated Resin Deposition
- Resin precursors (sesquiterpenes, chromones) move faster to damaged tissues
- Resin accumulates more rapidly and in higher volumes
D. Synergy With Fungi
- Fungal inoculants colonize the softened tissue more efficiently
- Enzymes and fungi together create deep, dense, and aromatic resin veins
3. Observed Benefits in the Field
| Effect | Result |
|---|---|
| Faster resin formation | Resin appears sooner around inoculation points |
| Greater resin density | Heavier, darker, high-oil-content wood |
| Improved aroma | Enzyme activity + fungal metabolites → richer fragrance |
| Higher inoculation success | Tree tolerates fungal colonization better |
4. Farmer-Friendly Analogy
“Microbial enzymes are like tiny drills—they open pathways in the tree, so the resin can flow faster and fungi can do their job more effectively.”
5. Integration in BarIno System
- Apply chemical priming first (AgarStart™, FerroBoost™, ResinRush™)
- Introduce FusaBlaze™ microbial enzyme inoculant
- Optionally combine with biotic inoculants (FusaPrime™, Harmonia™)
- Monitor resin formation monthly