Disease: rheumatoid arthritis

Gut fungi are associated with human genetic variation and disease risk

Researchers discovered for the first time how human genes influence the fungi living in our gut and how this connection affects heart disease risk. They found that a yeast called Kazachstania is regulated by a gene called CDH13, and people with certain genetic variants have less of this beneficial yeast and higher risk of heart disease. This groundbreaking study shows that our genetics don’t just affect bacteria in our gut—they also shape our fungal community, which has real implications for heart health.

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Chitosan and Chitooligosaccharide: The Promising Non-Plant-Derived Prebiotics with Multiple Biological Activities

Chitosan and chitooligosaccharide are natural compounds derived from crustacean shells and fungi that act as prebiotics to improve gut health. These compounds can fight bacteria and viruses, reduce inflammation, protect against oxidative stress, and help maintain healthy weight and blood sugar levels. They represent a promising, biodegradable alternative to synthetic pharmaceuticals with multiple health benefits.

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Construction of a genetic linkage map and detection of quantitative trait locus for the ergothioneine content in tamogitake mushroom (Pleurotus cornucopiae var. citrinopileatus)

Researchers created the first genetic map of tamogitake mushrooms to identify genes controlling ergothioneine content. Ergothioneine is an antioxidant compound that provides health benefits like fighting inflammation and protecting brain health. They found one key genetic marker that reliably predicts which mushrooms will have high ergothioneine levels, enabling farmers to selectively breed mushrooms with enhanced health benefits.

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Energy Metabolism Enhance Perylenequinone Biosynthesis in Shiraia sp. Slf14 through Promoting Mitochondrial ROS Accumulation

Scientists studied two similar fungi to understand how one produces more of a beneficial compound called perylenequinones (PQs), which have medical uses against infections and cancer. They discovered that the high-producing strain uses energy more efficiently, which causes tiny structures in the cells called mitochondria to produce reactive molecules (ROS). These reactive molecules trigger the fungus to make more PQs as a protective response. By controlling these processes, researchers can potentially improve the production of this valuable medicine.

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Mixed Infection With Aspergillosis and Actinomycosis in the Maxillary Sinus: A Case Report

A 74-year-old woman with diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis developed a rare dual infection in her maxillary sinus (a cavity above the teeth) caused by both a fungus (Aspergillus) and bacteria (Actinomyces). Imaging tests initially suggested only fungal infection, but surgery and tissue examination revealed both organisms were present. The patient was successfully treated with surgical removal of the infected material combined with antibiotics, leading to complete recovery.

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Life-threatening airway stenosis due to Scedosporium infection during nontuberculous mycobacteria treatment: A case report

A 73-year-old woman with arthritis being treated with immunosuppressive drugs developed a severe fungal airway infection caused by a rare fungus called Scedosporium apiospermum. Her airway became dangerously narrowed, requiring emergency support with an artificial lung machine while doctors inserted a stent to open her airway. After correctly identifying the fungus and treating it with an antifungal medication called voriconazole, she recovered well with complete healing of the infection.

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Ergostane-type steroids from mushrooms of Pleurotus genus

Oyster mushrooms and king trumpet mushrooms contain special compounds called ergostane-type steroids that have interesting chemical structures. These compounds can fight inflammation and may help with cancer. Scientists have discovered that some of these compounds have unique rearranged structures that don’t exist in other organisms. These mushroom-derived compounds show promise for developing new medicines.

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Advances in Fungal Natural Products: Insights into Bioactivity and Therapeutic Potential

Medicinal mushrooms and fungi contain powerful natural chemicals that can boost immunity, reduce inflammation, fight cancer, and protect the brain. Scientists are now better able to identify and study these compounds using advanced techniques, and some are being tested as supplements or alongside traditional medicines. This research shows that mushrooms could become important tools in treating diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer.

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Composition and Biodiversity of Culturable Endophytic Fungi in the Roots of Alpine Medicinal Plants in Xinjiang, China

Scientists studied special fungi that live inside the roots of two rare alpine medicinal plants found in China’s high mountains. They discovered that these plants host over 400 different types of fungi, including a special type called dark septate fungi that make up about half of all the fungi found. Different plant species and different mountain locations had different combinations of fungi, suggesting these fungi help the plants survive in the harsh, cold mountain environment.

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Mixed Infection With Aspergillosis and Actinomycosis in the Maxillary Sinus: A Case Report

A 74-year-old woman had a purulent nasal discharge for 1.5 years caused by two different infections occurring simultaneously in her maxillary sinus: aspergillosis (a fungal infection) and actinomycosis (a bacterial infection). Imaging initially suggested only a fungal ball, but pathological examination revealed both organisms were present. The patient was successfully treated with surgical removal of the infected material followed by antibiotic therapy.

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