Research Keyword: Iron acquisition

Deletion of RAP1 affects iron homeostasis, azole resistance, and virulence in Candida albicans

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Researchers found that a protein called Rap1 plays a critical role in how the dangerous fungus Candida albicans acquires and uses iron, which is essential for its survival in the human body. When the RAP1 gene was deleted, the fungus became much less virulent and lethal in infected mice, while paradoxically becoming more resistant to the antifungal drug fluconazole under iron-limited conditions. These findings suggest that targeting iron acquisition through Rap1 could be a new therapeutic strategy against serious fungal infections.

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Acidic pH Reduces Fluconazole Susceptibility in Cryptococcus neoformans by Altering Iron Uptake and Enhancing Ergosterol Biosynthesis

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This research shows that acidic environments, like those found in inflamed tissues and inside immune cells, make the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans more resistant to the antifungal drug fluconazole. The fungus adapts to acidic conditions by using an alternative iron uptake system that increases the production of protective compounds (ergosterol) in its cell membrane. Understanding this pH-dependent resistance mechanism could help develop better treatment strategies for cryptococcal infections in patients with compromised immune systems.

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Iron acquisition in the mutualistic fungus Penicillium herquei: implications of mineral elements in insect-fungus symbiosis

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A fungus that lives with beetles has evolved special abilities to collect and store iron, which it shares with its insect partner. Researchers found that this mutualistic fungus produces much higher levels of iron than the plant leaves the beetles would normally eat. The fungus uses special proteins and iron-grabbing molecules to accumulate this essential nutrient, providing a nutritional advantage to the beetle and strengthening their partnership.

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