Disease: inflammation

Indole-Based Compounds as Potential Drug Candidates for SARS-CoV-2

Scientists are searching for new treatments for COVID-19 by studying indole-containing compounds, which are found in many plants and can be made in laboratories. Some approved drugs with indole structures, like the antiviral drug Arbidol, have been repurposed to fight COVID-19. Researchers are also designing new indole compounds and using computer simulations to predict which ones might work best against the virus’s key proteins.

Read More »

Photoregulation of the biosynthetic activity of fungus Inonotus obliquus using colloidal solutions of biogenic metal nanoparticles and low-intensity laser radiation

Scientists studied how to enhance the medicinal properties of chaga mushroom using tiny metal particles and laser light. They found that adding silver, iron, or magnesium nanoparticles to growing mushroom cultures increased biomass production. When combined with laser treatment, these nanoparticles dramatically boosted the production of beneficial compounds like polysaccharides, flavonoids, and melanin pigments that have health benefits including antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.

Read More »

Establishment of a genetic transformation system for cordycipitoid fungus Cordyceps chanhua

Scientists have successfully developed a method to genetically modify Cordyceps chanhua, an important medicinal mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 1,600 years. By optimizing how they prepare fungal cells and introduce foreign genes, they created a reliable genetic transformation system that can be used to study which genes produce beneficial compounds in this mushroom. This breakthrough will help researchers understand and potentially enhance the medicinal properties of C. chanhua.

Read More »

Algal pigments: Therapeutic potential and food applications

Colorful algae contain powerful natural compounds that can help treat serious health problems like cancer, diabetes, and obesity. Scientists are using special nano-technology to deliver these algal compounds more effectively in medicines. Algae-based pigments like chlorophyll and carotenoids are already used in supplements and healthy foods to boost overall wellness. These compounds also help maintain a healthy gut and reduce inflammation in the body.

Read More »

Biodiversity and biological applications of marine actinomycetes—Abu-Qir Bay, Mediterranean Sea, Egypt

Researchers isolated bacteria called actinomycetes from the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt that naturally produce colorful pigments. They found that one specific bacterium (Streptomyces tunisiensis) produces a green pigment with promising anti-inflammatory properties similar to common pain relievers. By optimizing the growth conditions, the scientists increased pigment production by over 12 times, suggesting potential applications in medicine and industry.

Read More »

A Comprehensive Review of the Diversity of Fungal Secondary Metabolites and Their Emerging Applications in Healthcare and Environment

Fungi naturally produce complex chemical compounds called secondary metabolites that have powerful effects against diseases and pests. These include well-known medicines like penicillin and compounds that can fight cancer, reduce inflammation, and lower cholesterol. Scientists are now using advanced genetic and biotechnology techniques to increase production of these fungal compounds, making them more available and affordable for medical, agricultural, and environmental applications. This research shows how fungi could be important sources of new medicines and sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals.

Read More »

Enhancing Pearl oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) performance by evaluating the influence of potassium humate and wheat straw on yield and biochemical attributes

This study examined how adding potassium humate (a natural organic compound) to wheat straw substrate affects the growth and quality of oyster mushrooms. Researchers tested seven different amounts of potassium humate over two growing seasons and found that a moderate amount (0.5 g per 500 g straw) produced the best results, increasing both mushroom yield and nutritional value including vitamin C and beneficial sugars. Interestingly, using more potassium humate was not better, showing that balanced application is more effective than maximum supplementation for optimal mushroom production.

Read More »

Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) in the Screening of Botanicals–Its Versatile Potential and Selected Applications

This review shows how thin-layer chromatography (TLC), a simple laboratory technique, is invaluable for analyzing plant materials. TLC helps scientists identify which plants are related to each other, find beneficial compounds in herbs, ensure herbal medicines are pure and safe, and track illegal psychoactive plants. Despite being less glamorous than modern equipment, TLC remains practical, affordable, and effective for everyday botanical analysis.

Read More »

Health benefits of fish and fish by-products—a nutritional and functional perspective

Fish is an excellent food that provides many important nutrients like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins that help protect our hearts, brains, and overall health. Different fish species offer various health benefits including protecting against heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and brain disorders. However, some fish can contain harmful contaminants like mercury, so choosing safer options like salmon and cod is important for children and pregnant women.

Read More »

Extraction, Characterization, Biological Properties, and X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Functional Polysaccharides Derived from Limnospira platensis

Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) is a nutrient-dense microalga that contains beneficial polysaccharides with multiple health benefits. Researchers extracted and analyzed these polysaccharides, finding they have strong antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels by inhibiting α-glucosidase enzymes. These compounds also support beneficial gut bacteria growth, making spirulina a promising natural ingredient for functional foods and health supplements.

Read More »
Scroll to Top