Disease: fungal infections

Essential Oils as an Antifungal Alternative to Control Several Species of Fungi Isolated from Musa paradisiaca: Part II

Bananas often develop fungal infections during storage that reduce their quality. Researchers tested whether essential oils from common herbs and spices like cinnamon, clove, and oregano could prevent these fungal infections. The study found that cinnamon, clove, and oregano oils effectively stopped fungal growth at higher concentrations, offering a natural alternative to chemical fungicides that could help keep bananas fresh longer without synthetic chemicals.

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Microbial-Based Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: A Comparative Review of Bacteria- and Fungi-Mediated Approaches

Scientists are developing environmentally friendly ways to make silver nanoparticles using bacteria and fungi instead of harsh chemicals. These tiny particles show promise in fighting infections, treating cancer, cleaning water, and protecting crops. The review compares how bacteria and fungi each produce these particles and explains how different conditions affect their properties and effectiveness.

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The C-type lectin receptor Dcir (Clec4a2) restrains Aspergillus fumigatus elimination by limiting the degranulatory activity of neutrophils

This study reveals that a receptor called Dcir on immune cells called neutrophils actually prevents effective killing of the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus by limiting the release of antibacterial granules. When researchers removed Dcir from mice, their neutrophils became more effective at fighting the fungal infection. This suggests that blocking Dcir might help patients with fungal respiratory infections clear the pathogen more effectively.

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Eco-friendly biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using marine-derived Fusarium equiseti: optimization, characterization, and evaluation of antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities

Scientists used a marine fungus called Fusarium equiseti to create tiny silver particles called nanoparticles in an environmentally-friendly way. These particles showed strong abilities to kill harmful bacteria and fungi, protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and fight breast cancer cells in laboratory tests. This green synthesis method offers a safer, non-toxic alternative to traditional chemical manufacturing while producing stable, multi-functional nanoparticles.

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FTIR Characterization and Bioactivity Assessment of Cinnamomum camphora Essential Oil: Antioxidant, Anti-Enzymatic, and Antifungal Properties Against Phytopathogens

Camphor tree essential oil shows promise as a natural, eco-friendly fungicide for protecting crops from fungal diseases. The oil demonstrated strong antifungal activity against several common plant pathogens while also possessing antioxidant and potential antidiabetic properties. This makes it a valuable candidate to replace harmful synthetic pesticides in agriculture, offering benefits for both environmental health and sustainable farming practices.

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Global Analysis of microRNA-like RNAs Reveals Differential Regulation of Pathogenicity and Development in Fusarium oxysporum HS2 Causing Apple Replant Disease

Apple replant disease is caused by a fungus that damages apple tree roots and reduces fruit production. Researchers discovered that this fungus uses special regulatory molecules called microRNA-like RNAs to control its growth and disease-causing abilities, especially during the spore stage. These findings could help scientists develop new ways to control the disease using RNA-based treatments.

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In Vitro Mycorrhization for Plant Propagation and Enhanced Resilience to Environmental Stress: A Review

Mycorrhizal fungi form beneficial partnerships with plant roots, significantly improving plant health and resilience to environmental stresses like drought and disease. Scientists can now grow these fungi in laboratory conditions alongside plant tissues to create enhanced plants that are stronger and more productive. This in vitro mycorrhization approach offers a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, potentially revolutionizing agriculture to better withstand climate change challenges while maintaining food security.

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Cell walls of filamentous fungi – challenges and opportunities for biotechnology

Filamentous fungi like Aspergillus and Trichoderma are workhorses of the biotechnology industry, producing enzymes and pharmaceuticals worth billions annually. The cell wall surrounding these fungal cells acts as both a barrier and a filter, affecting how well proteins can be secreted into the fermentation medium. By genetically modifying cell wall components, scientists can improve enzyme production efficiency. Additionally, the billions of tons of fungal biomass left over from fermentation contain valuable chitin and chitosan that could be extracted and reused, creating a more sustainable manufacturing process.

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Synergistic effects of Cyp51 isozyme-specific azole antifungal agents on fungi with multiple cyp51 isozyme genes

This study found that different azole antifungal drugs work better against different versions of an enzyme (Cyp51) that fungi need to survive. By combining two azole drugs that each target different enzyme versions, researchers achieved stronger antifungal effects than either drug alone. This discovery suggests a new strategy for treating stubborn fungal infections by carefully selecting drug combinations based on which enzyme versions the fungus possesses.

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Staurosporine as an Antifungal Agent

Staurosporine is a natural compound produced by soil bacteria that can kill fungi. Scientists originally discovered it in 1977 and found it works by blocking proteins called kinases that fungi need to survive. Recent research shows it could be useful against drug-resistant fungal infections, especially when combined with other antifungal medicines. However, it needs to be modified to make it safer for human use.

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