Research Keyword: pathogen identification

Pathogen Identification, Antagonistic Microbe Screening, and Biocontrol Strategies for Aconitum carmichaelii Root Rot

Aconitum carmichaelii is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant that has become increasingly prone to root rot disease due to continuous farming in Yunnan. Researchers identified multiple disease-causing pathogens and discovered that beneficial bacteria called Bacillus can both fight these pathogens and improve plant health. One particularly effective strain enhanced soil quality and increased the plant’s natural defenses, achieving over 50% disease control without chemical pesticides.

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Luobuma Leaf Spot Disease Caused by Alternaria tenuissima in China

Researchers in China identified a serious fungal disease affecting Luobuma plants (used for tea, medicine, and textiles) caused by the fungus Alternaria tenuissima. The disease caused leaf spots that spread rapidly, with infection rates reaching 95% in some plants. Testing showed that a fungicide called hymexazol was effective at controlling the disease, offering farmers a practical solution for protecting their crops.

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Apple replant disease: unraveling the fungal enigma hidden in the rhizosphere

Apple orchards that are replanted in the same location often develop a disease that stunts growth and can kill young trees. Scientists discovered that harmful fungi, especially Fusarium species, grow excessively in the soil around diseased trees. These harmful fungi appear to be the main culprits behind the disease. The study identified specific fungicides that can control these pathogenic fungi, offering hope for preventing the disease in future plantings.

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Primary cutaneous mixed infection with Cryptococcus uniguttulatus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis

A 43-year-old man had persistent facial skin lesions for seven years that initially appeared to be fungal infection caused by Cryptococcus uniguttulatus. Standard antifungal treatments failed to completely cure the condition. Advanced genetic testing revealed the lesions were actually caused by two simultaneous infections: the fungus and tuberculosis bacteria. Once both infections were properly identified and treated with appropriate medications, the skin lesions finally healed.

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Three New Records of Pathogens Causing Stem Blight on Vaccinium corymbosum in China

Researchers in China identified three new fungal species causing stem blight disease in blueberry crops. These fungi infect blueberry stems, causing brown lesions that kill the shoots and leaves. Laboratory tests confirmed all three fungi can cause the disease, with one species being particularly aggressive. This research helps farmers understand and manage this economically important disease that damages 10-25% of China’s blueberry crops.

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Epidemiology of Onychomycosis in the United States Characterized Using Molecular Methods, 2015–2024

This large study examined over 710,000 nail samples to identify which fungi cause nail infections in the United States. Using modern molecular testing combined with microscopic analysis, researchers found that while the fungus T. rubrum is most common, other molds and yeasts cause many infections too. Importantly, women and older adults are more likely to have infections from these other organisms, which are often harder to treat with standard antifungal medications.

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Pathogen identification and biological fungicides screening for Plumbago auriculata blight in China

Researchers in China identified a fungal disease affecting Plumbago auriculata (cape leadwort), a popular ornamental plant. The disease was caused by Fusarium ipomoeae, a fungus that causes yellowing and death of plant tissue. Scientists tested seven biological pesticides and found that osthole, a natural compound, was most effective at controlling the fungus and preventing disease.

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What’s in a name? Fit-for-purpose bacterial nomenclature: meeting report

Scientists are discovering and renaming bacteria so rapidly that doctors and other professionals sometimes don’t recognize the new names, which can cause confusion in patient care and food safety. This meeting brought together experts to discuss the problem and create better systems for managing these changes. The key finding is that when bacteria get new scientific names, there needs to be better communication with the practical users like clinicians so they stay informed and can provide proper treatment.

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Postharvest Disease Management of ‘Akizuki’ Pear in China: Identification of Fungal Pathogens and Control Efficacy of Chlorine Dioxide

Researchers identified four types of fungi that cause rot in ‘Akizuki’ pears during storage: Alternaria alternata, Diaporthe eres, and two types of Penicillium. They tested chlorine dioxide gas as a treatment and found it effectively stopped the fungi from growing without harming the fruit. This discovery offers a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fungicide chemicals for keeping stored pears fresh longer.

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Bacterial and Fungal Pathogens in Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media and Otitis Externa With Persistent Otorrhea: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Low- to Middle-Income Country (Pakistan)

This study examined ear infections in Karachi, Pakistan, identifying which bacteria and fungi cause chronic ear drainage. Researchers found that Pseudomonas bacteria and Aspergillus fungi were the most common culprits, often appearing together. The warm, humid climate and poor sanitation in the area contribute to these infections, which need better diagnostic testing and tailored treatment approaches to improve patient outcomes.

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