Research Keyword: FTIR spectroscopy

Identification of novel polyethylene-degrading fungi from South African landfill soils: Arthrographis kalrae, Lecanicillium coprophilum, and Didymosphaeria variabile

Researchers in South Africa discovered three previously unknown fungi that can break down plastic waste, particularly low-density polyethylene used in shopping bags. These fungi were isolated from landfill soils and showed the ability to degrade plastic strips through oxidative processes, with chemical changes detectable using advanced analysis techniques. This discovery offers hope for developing local, biologically-based solutions to South Africa’s serious plastic waste problem.

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Structure and Bioactivity of Intracellular and Extracellular Polysaccharides of Trametes lactinea Mycelium

Researchers extracted and studied polysaccharides from Trametes lactinea mushroom mycelium grown in liquid culture. They found that these polysaccharides have strong antioxidant properties and can boost immune cell function, with the intracellular polysaccharide IP-3 showing the most promising results. These findings suggest that polysaccharides from mushroom fermentation could have potential health benefits and could be developed into medicinal supplements.

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Ganoderma lucidum inspired silver nanoparticles and its biomedical applications with special reference to drug resistant Escherichia coli isolates from CAUTI

Researchers created tiny silver particles using a medicinal mushroom called Ganoderma lucidum to fight dangerous bacteria that resist antibiotics and are associated with urinary catheter infections. These nanoparticles were found to effectively kill drug-resistant bacteria, work as antioxidants better than a common antioxidant standard, and showed promise in killing breast cancer cells. This eco-friendly approach offers a natural alternative to conventional antibiotics for treating serious antibiotic-resistant infections.

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Effects of ultrasound-assisted extraction and transglutaminase treatment on the physicochemical properties of protein from Stropharia rugosoannulata

Researchers developed improved methods to extract and modify protein from Stropharia rugosoannulata mushrooms to make them better for use in plant-based meat products. Using ultrasound waves and an enzyme called transglutaminase, they were able to increase the protein yield and improve how well the protein can hold water and oil. These modifications enhanced the mushroom protein’s ability to work as a meat substitute in food products.

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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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Effect of acid modification of Biochar derived from spent mushroom substrate on the production of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Researchers found that treating mushroom waste with phosphoric acid and converting it to biochar creates a better growing medium for oyster mushrooms. This modified biochar increased mushroom yield by 13-16% and shortened harvest time by 2.5 days compared to regular biochar. The mushrooms grown on these modified substrates were safe to eat and economically more profitable, making this an effective way to recycle agricultural waste.

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Chlorophyllum molybdites-synthesized manganese oxide nanoparticles (MnO-NPs): morphology, biocompatibility, and anticancer properties against liver cancer (HepG2) cell line

Researchers successfully created tiny manganese oxide particles using a wild mushroom called Chlorophyllum molybdites through an environmentally friendly process. These nanoparticles showed strong cancer-fighting ability against liver cancer cells and were effective against a parasite that causes leishmaniasis. The particles were safe for human use with minimal damage to healthy blood cells, making them promising candidates for developing new cancer and parasitic disease treatments.

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Identification of novel polyethylene-degrading fungi from South African landfill soils: Arthrographis kalrae, Lecanicillium coprophilum, and Didymosphaeria variabile

Researchers in South Africa discovered three new types of fungi that can break down plastic waste in landfills. These fungi, along with two previously known species, were found in soil from two landfill sites and were shown to degrade polyethylene plastic. The scientists used multiple testing methods to confirm the fungi actually decompose the plastic by breaking down its chemical structure. This discovery offers hope for a biological solution to South Africa’s serious plastic waste problem.

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Physicochemical Characteristics of Chitosan Extracted from Pleurotus ostreatus and Its Anticancer Activity Against the MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cell Line

Researchers extracted a compound called chitosan from oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) and tested its ability to fight breast cancer cells. The chitosan successfully killed cancer cells by triggering apoptosis, a natural cell death process, while showing promise as a safer alternative to conventional chemotherapy. The study demonstrates that mushroom-derived compounds could have significant therapeutic potential for cancer treatment with fewer side effects than traditional drugs.

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In vitro characterization of Trichophyton rubrum biofilm by combined anti-biofilm enzymes

Athlete’s foot and nail fungal infections caused by Trichophyton rubrum are difficult to treat because the fungus forms protective biofilms that resist antifungal medications. This research shows that enzymes like cellulase, protease, and amylase can break down these biofilm barriers when used alone or in combination. The combination approach was most effective, suggesting that enzyme-based treatments could become useful additions to current fungal infection therapies.

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