phylogenetic analysis – Page 19

Exploring fungal pathogens to control the plant invasive Rubus niveus on Galapagos Island San Cristobal

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Scientists in the Galapagos Islands are working to control an invasive raspberry plant that is damaging the unique ecosystem. They identified five types of fungi that naturally attack this invasive plant and could potentially be used as a biological control method. These fungi were isolated from diseased raspberry plants and tested in the laboratory, showing promise as a sustainable alternative to expensive manual removal and chemical herbicides.

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals novel hyphomycetous fungi on medicinal plants in Southwestern China

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Researchers discovered 12 new types of fungi living on medicinal plants in Southwest China. These fungi were identified by examining their physical characteristics under a microscope and analyzing their genetic sequences. This discovery helps scientists better understand what kinds of fungi exist on healing plants and may help improve the quality control of traditional Chinese herbal medicines.

First Report of Trametes hirsuta, Causal Agent White Rot in Avocado Trees Grown in the State of Michoacán, México

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Researchers in Mexico discovered that a wood-decay fungus called Trametes hirsuta is infecting avocado trees in the country’s main avocado-growing region, Michoacán. The fungus causes a disease called white rot, which leads to yellowing leaves, tree defoliation, and eventually tree death. This is the first time this fungus has been identified as a disease-causing agent in avocado trees, and the researchers confirmed through laboratory tests that the fungus is indeed responsible for the damage being observed in avocado orchards.

Recalcitrant dermatophytosis due to Trichophyton indotineae: A case series from Sarawak, Malaysia

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Three patients in Malaysia had persistent skin fungal infections caused by Trichophyton indotineae that did not respond to standard antifungal treatments. Genetic testing revealed these fungal strains carried a specific mutation making them resistant to terbinafine, the typical first-line treatment. While azole-based antifungals showed variable effectiveness depending on the specific drug and dose used, one patient achieved complete cure with voriconazole therapy. The study highlights the growing problem of drug-resistant fungal infections and the importance of targeted treatment based on laboratory testing.

Morphophylogenetic evidence reveals four new fungal species within Tetraplosphaeriaceae (Pleosporales, Ascomycota) from tropical and subtropical forest in China

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Scientists discovered four new species of fungi in the tropical and subtropical forests of southern China. These fungi belong to the Tetraplosphaeriaceae family and were found on decaying wood and bamboo. The researchers identified them using both microscopic examination and DNA analysis, comparing them with similar known species.

Two Cases of Curvularia geniculata Keratitis Successfully Treated with Natamycin-Based Therapy

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Two patients with eye infections caused by a rare fungal species called Curvularia geniculata were successfully treated with antifungal medication. The infections occurred after plant material entered their eyes during daily activities. Doctors identified the exact fungal species through genetic testing and used an antifungal drug called natamycin, alone or combined with another antifungal, to treat the infections. Both patients recovered fully with excellent vision restoration.

Toxicity Assay and Pathogenic Process Analysis of Clonostachys rogersoniana Infecting Cephalcia chuxiongica

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A destructive pine forest pest called Cephalcia chuxiongica causes significant damage to forests in China. Researchers discovered that a fungus called Clonostachys rogersoniana can effectively kill this pest by uniquely infecting it through breathing holes called spiracles. This fungus-based biological control offers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, potentially protecting China’s forests while reducing chemical pollution.

The mitochondrial genome of a wild edible mushroom, Russula rosea

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Scientists sequenced the complete genetic instructions contained in the energy centers (mitochondria) of Russula rosea, a wild edible mushroom known for its antioxidant and anti-tumor properties. The mushroom’s mitochondrial genome contains 57 genes and is about 54,177 DNA base pairs long. By comparing this genetic information with other fungi, researchers found that Russula rosea is closely related to another mushroom species called Russula lepida. This discovery helps scientists better understand how edible mushrooms are related to each other evolutionarily.

First Report of Colletotrichum kahawae Causing Anthracnose on Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) in China and Biological Characterization of the Pathogen

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Researchers in China discovered that a fungus called Colletotrichum kahawae is causing a serious disease called anthracnose on buckwheat crops in Yunnan Province. This is the first time this particular fungus has been found on buckwheat, though it’s already known for causing disease on coffee plants worldwide. The scientists characterized how this fungus grows best under certain conditions and tested whether it could infect other important crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes, finding it could potentially harm these crops too.

Clinical and Genomic Insights into Antifungal Resistance in Aspergillus Isolates from Thailand

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Researchers in Thailand found that certain fungal infections caused by Aspergillus fumigatus are becoming resistant to common antifungal medications like voriconazole. They identified a specific genetic mutation called TR34/L98H in one patient sample that makes the fungus resistant to azole drugs used to treat these serious infections. By analyzing the genetic makeup of these resistant fungi, scientists discovered additional changes beyond the known resistance gene, suggesting these organisms may adapt in multiple ways to survive treatment. This is the first time this particular resistance mutation has been detected in a clinical patient sample in Thailand, indicating that antifungal resistance in Aspergillus is spreading and requires closer monitoring and testing.

Research Keyword: phylogenetic analysis