antifungal resistance – Page 22

New approaches to tackle a rising problem: Large-scale methods to study antifungal resistance

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Fungal infections are becoming increasingly resistant to antifungal drugs, creating a serious public health challenge. Scientists are using advanced genetic sequencing and laboratory techniques to understand how fungi develop drug resistance and identify the specific genetic changes responsible. By cataloging resistance mutations and creating shared databases, researchers aim to develop better diagnostic tests and treatment strategies to combat these dangerous infections.

Overexpression of efflux pump and biofilm associated genes in itraconazole resistant Candida albicans isolates causing onychomycosis

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This study examined why some fungal nail infections caused by Candida albicans don’t respond to itraconazole treatment. Researchers found that resistant fungi have higher levels of genes that pump the antifungal drug out of their cells and genes that help them form protective biofilm layers. These findings suggest that combining itraconazole with drugs that block these pumps or disrupt biofilms could be more effective for treating stubborn fungal nail infections.

Itraconazole resistance in Madurella fahalii linked to a distinct homolog of the gene encoding cytochrome P450 14-α sterol demethylase (CYP51)

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A fungal infection called mycetoma caused by Madurella fahalii doesn’t respond to a common antifungal drug called itraconazole. Researchers discovered that this fungus has an extra gene that produces a protein that resists the drug, which isn’t found in a similar fungus that remains susceptible. This finding could help develop better treatments for mycetoma patients in the future.

Geotrichosis Due to Magnusiomyces capitatus: A Severe Emerging Invasive Fungal Disease

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A 71-year-old cancer patient receiving chemotherapy developed a severe blood infection caused by a rare fungus called Magnusiomyces capitatus. This emerging fungal infection caused septic shock and multiple organ failure despite treatment with antifungal medications. The case highlights how these rare fungi can be deadly in patients with weakened immune systems and emphasizes the importance of quick, accurate identification using advanced laboratory techniques to guide treatment decisions.

Identification of an antifungal lipopeptide from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens HAU3 inhibiting the growth of Fusarium graminearum using preparative chromatography and 2D-NMR

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Researchers identified a soil bacterium called Bacillus amyloliquefaciens HAU3 that naturally produces fengycin, a powerful antifungal compound. This compound can kill disease-causing fungi like Fusarium graminearum that contaminate animal feed and produce harmful toxins. The bacteria also breaks down dangerous toxins called zearalenone, making it a potential natural solution for protecting livestock feed from fungal contamination.

Advances in Fungal Infection Research: From Novel Diagnostics to Innovative Therapeutics

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This editorial discusses the growing challenge of fungal infections worldwide, which disproportionately affect people with weakened immune systems. New diagnostic tools using molecular testing can now quickly identify fungal infections, while researchers are developing novel treatments including repurposed drugs and immune-boosting therapies. The article emphasizes that coordinated efforts among doctors, scientists, and public health officials are essential to combat rising antifungal resistance and improve patient outcomes.

Five-Year Retrospective Analysis of Superficial Fungal Infections: Insights from Hospital Experience

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This study examined fungal skin infections in over 3,900 patients at a Serbian military hospital over five years. Researchers found that common fungi like Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. rubrum caused most infections, with patterns varying by season, patient gender, and body location. Men were more likely to have foot infections while women showed more diverse fungal types. The findings suggest doctors should use more precise identification methods like MALDI-TOF testing to prescribe better treatments and help prevent recurring infections.

Diagnostic Approaches to Invasive Candidiasis: Challenges and New Perspectives

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Invasive candidiasis is a dangerous fungal infection affecting critically ill hospital patients. Current testing methods like blood cultures are slow and unreliable, so doctors are developing faster tests using DNA detection and biomarkers. A combination of new diagnostic tools and prompt treatment with antifungal medications is essential to improve survival rates and reduce complications from this serious infection.

Expression pattern, subcellular localization of Aspergillus oryzae ergosterol synthases, and their effects on ergosterol and fatty acid metabolism

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Researchers studied how Aspergillus oryzae fungi make ergosterol, a key ingredient in fungal cell membranes. They found that this process is much more complex in this mold than in baker’s yeast, with 49 genes involved. By selectively increasing expression of specific genes, they were able to boost ergosterol production by up to 2.3 times, which could have applications in producing fungal-derived medicines and improving fermented foods.

In vitro activity of SF001: a next-generation polyene versus amphotericin B

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This study tested a new antifungal drug called SF001 against a well-established antifungal called amphotericin B. Researchers tested both drugs against common fungal infections affecting vulnerable patients. SF001 was found to work as well as or better than amphotericin B, particularly against harder-to-treat Aspergillus fungi, while potentially causing fewer side effects.

Research Keyword: antifungal resistance