Disease: Drug-resistant fungal infections

Baicalein as a potent antifungal agent against Candida albicans: synergy with fluconazole and sustainable production through probiotic-mediated bioconversion

Baicalein, a natural compound from a traditional medicinal plant, is significantly more effective at fighting Candida albicans infections than its parent compound baicalin. When combined with the common antifungal drug fluconazole, baicalein creates a powerful synergistic effect that is especially useful against drug-resistant fungal strains. Scientists discovered that a beneficial probiotic bacterium, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, can efficiently convert the abundant baicalin into baicalein, providing a sustainable and safe way to produce this potent antifungal compound at scale.

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Staurosporine as an Antifungal Agent

Staurosporine is a natural compound from soil bacteria that can kill fungal infections. While originally known for its anti-cancer properties, scientists have recently rediscovered its strong antifungal activity, especially against dangerous drug-resistant fungi. The challenge is that it also damages human cells, but researchers are developing improved versions and combination treatments to make it safer and more effective.

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Drug repurposing to fight resistant fungal species: Recent developments as novel therapeutic strategies

This editorial highlights the growing problem of fungal infections that resist current treatments, causing millions of deaths worldwide each year. Researchers are finding new ways to fight these resistant infections by repurposing existing drugs in new combinations and discovering novel compounds from natural sources. The collection of studies presented shows promising results using combinations like minocycline with antifungal drugs, natural compounds like baicalin, and AI technology to predict resistance patterns. These innovative approaches offer hope for better treatment options for patients suffering from serious fungal infections.

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A broad-spectrum anti-fungal effector dictates bacterial-fungal interkingdom interactions

Scientists discovered that a common soil bacterium called Acidovorax citrulli has a sophisticated weapon to fight dangerous fungi. This bacterium uses a needle-like structure to inject a toxic protein called TseN directly into fungal cells, where it damages the fungal DNA and causes death. This new discovery is particularly exciting because it works against drug-resistant fungi like Candida auris that are increasingly hard to treat. Tests in mice confirmed that this bacterial attack significantly reduces fungal infections on skin.

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