fungal infection – Page 6

Aspartyl protease MfSAP2 is a key virulence factor in mycelial form of skin fungi Malassezia furfur

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Malassezia furfur is a common skin fungus that can change from round yeast cells to thread-like filaments. When it becomes thread-like, it produces a special enzyme called MfSAP2 that damages the proteins holding together the dead skin cells that form our skin’s protective barrier. This damage may be responsible for the patches and discoloration seen in pityriasis versicolor, a common skin condition.

Madurella tropicana and Madurella pseudomycetomatis identified as new causative agents of black grain eumycetoma in Senegal

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This case report describes two patients in Senegal with a serious fungal infection called eumycetoma caused by previously unidentified fungal species. Using modern DNA sequencing methods, researchers identified the infections as being caused by Madurella tropicana and Madurella pseudomycetomatis, rather than the previously known Madurella mycetomatis. One patient treated with the antifungal drug itraconazole showed good improvement, highlighting the importance of accurate identification for proper treatment.

De novo Genome Assembly and Annotation of 12 Fungi Associated with Fruit Tree Decline Syndrome in ON, Canada

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Apple and stone fruit trees in Ontario have been dying at alarming rates since 2016. Researchers sequenced and analyzed the genetic code of 12 different fungi suspected of causing this decline. This study provides the first complete genetic blueprints for several fungal species, helping farmers and scientists better understand what causes the disease and develop ways to prevent it.

Successful Management of Spondylodiscitis Caused by Aspergillus nidulans: A Case Report and Literature Review

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A 59-year-old patient with lymphoma developed a serious fungal spine infection caused by Aspergillus nidulans, a rare mold. The infection was diagnosed using imaging, fungal cultures, and laboratory testing. The patient was successfully treated with a 6-month course of the antifungal drug voriconazole without requiring surgery. This case is notable because it represents the first successful treatment of this extremely rare infection in a cancer patient.

Fatal Pneumonia Caused by Beauveria bassiana in a Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii, Garman, 1880) on the Portuguese Coast: Case Report and Review of Beauveria spp. Infections in Reptiles

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A young Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, one of the world’s most endangered turtle species, was found off the coast of Portugal and brought to a rehabilitation center. Despite intensive care, the turtle died after 11 days due to a severe fungal lung infection caused by Beauveria bassiana, a fungus that normally infects insects. This case highlights how endangered animals in poor health are vulnerable to opportunistic infections and emphasizes the importance of including fungal disease screening in wildlife rehabilitation programs.

Pomegranate Woody Mycobiota Associated with Wood Decay

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Pomegranate trees in Italy are suffering from a wood disease that causes cankers and browning of the wood, leading to plant death and crop loss. Researchers identified multiple fungal species responsible for this disease, with Neofusicoccum parvum and Diaporthe species being the main culprits. Cold winter temperatures appear to weaken trees, making them susceptible to these fungal infections. Using advanced DNA analysis along with traditional methods, scientists confirmed which fungi cause the most damage and how the disease develops.

Phylogenetic diversity of Colletotrichum species (Sordariomycetes, Glomerellales, Glomerellaceae) associated with plant diseases in Thailand

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Researchers identified eight species of Colletotrichum fungi causing plant diseases in Thailand. They discovered two completely new species and found these fungi on 13 additional plant hosts previously unknown. Using DNA analysis, they confirmed the identity of each fungal species and documented their characteristics. This work helps farmers and scientists better identify and manage these damaging plant pathogens.

Prospective Study on Microbiological Profile of Fungal Isolates and its Antibiogram in a Tertiary care hospital in South India

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Researchers studied fungal infections in a hospital in South India over one year, examining 62 fungal isolates. They found that Candida auris, a dangerous fungal species, was the most common and had developed resistance to many antifungal drugs. A newer class of antifungal drugs called echinocandins worked best against these infections, highlighting the importance of quick identification of fungal species for proper treatment.

Fungal Infections – a Stealthy Enemy in Patients with Chronic Granulomatous Disease: a 28-years’ Experience from North India

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Patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), a rare immune system disorder, are highly susceptible to serious fungal infections. This study of 99 patients over 28 years found that 40% developed fungal infections, mostly caused by Aspergillus fungi affecting the lungs. These infections were life-threatening, with over half the infected patients dying despite aggressive treatment with antifungal medications. Doctors need to screen for fungal infections early, even in patients without obvious symptoms, and treat infants and males more aggressively.

Emergence of Fusarium incarnatum and Fusarium avenaceum in wilt affected solanaceous crops of the Northern Himalayas

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Researchers in Kashmir identified two fungal species, Fusarium incarnatum and Fusarium avenaceum, causing wilt disease in important vegetable crops like tomatoes, brinjals, and chili peppers. These pathogens cause yellowing of leaves, wilting, and death of plants, resulting in significant crop losses. This is the first time these particular fungi have been confirmed as wilt pathogens in these vegetables in India. The study emphasizes the need for better management strategies to protect these crops from fungal infections.

Research Keyword: fungal infection