Fungal Species: None

Efficacy assessments of SF001, a next-generation polyene antifungal, in a neutropenic mouse model of invasive fusariosis

This study tested a new antifungal drug called SF001 against a serious infection called fusariosis in mice. SF001 performed as well as the current standard treatment (amphotericin B) but with better safety profiles. The drug successfully reduced fungal infections in organs and improved survival rates in infected mice without showing signs of toxicity at higher doses.

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In vitro and in vivo efficacy of the antimycobacterial molecule SQ109 against the human pathogenic fungus, Cryptococcus neoformans

Researchers discovered that SQ109, an antimycobacterial drug, can effectively kill Cryptococcus fungi that cause serious brain infections in people with weakened immune systems. Unlike current treatments, cryptococcal cells don’t easily develop resistance to SQ109, and it works even better when combined with fluconazole. In mouse studies, SQ109 successfully treated cryptococcal infections, suggesting it could be a valuable new treatment option for patients worldwide, especially in resource-limited regions.

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Biocontrol of Cercospora leaf spot in sugar beet by a novel Bacillus velezensis KT27 strain: Enhanced antifungal activity and growth promotion in laboratory and field conditions

This research demonstrates that a beneficial bacteria called Bacillus velezensis KT27 can effectively control a common fungal disease in sugar beet crops. The bacteria fights the disease by producing natural antifungal compounds and can be further enhanced by exposure to inactivated fungal pathogens. Field trials showed the bacterial treatment provided disease protection almost as good as chemical fungicides while also promoting plant growth and increasing sugar beet yield by up to 15%.

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Potential Protective Role of Amphibian Skin Bacteria Against Water Mold Saprolegnia spp

This research discovered that frogs have protective bacteria on their skin that can fight against harmful water molds called Saprolegnia. Scientists tested bacteria from different frog populations and found that certain types, especially Bacillus bacteria, could prevent the mold from growing. However, the bacteria’s protective ability depends on environmental conditions—they work better in nutrient-poor environments similar to natural ponds. This finding suggests that maintaining healthy environmental conditions is important for frogs to naturally resist these dangerous fungal infections.

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Wildlife Dermatophytoses in Central Italy (Umbria and Marche Regions): A Fifteen-Year Investigation (2010–2024)

Researchers in central Italy studied fungal skin infections in wild animals over 15 years to understand disease patterns and public health risks. They found that about 11% of wild animals tested positive for dermatophytes (skin fungi), with some species dangerous to humans. The most common fungi found were Paraphyton mirabile and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, which can spread to people through contact with infected animals. The study highlights the importance of monitoring wildlife health and using protective equipment when handling wild animals.

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An Optimized In-House Protocol for Cryptococcus neoformans DNA Extraction from Whole Blood: Comparison of Lysis Buffer and Ox-Bile Methods

Researchers developed a simple, low-cost method to extract DNA from Cryptococcus neoformans fungal cells found in blood samples. The new method uses a homemade salt buffer solution instead of expensive commercial kits, making it accessible to laboratories in developing countries. Testing showed this method works better than an alternative ox-bile method, detecting very small numbers of fungal cells. This breakthrough could help doctors more quickly diagnose a serious fungal infection called cryptococcal meningitis in resource-limited settings.

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Genome characterization of Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII strain PG12DES from Italy

Researchers in Italy analyzed the genetic makeup of a fungus called Trichophyton mentagrophytes that causes skin infections and appears to spread between people through sexual contact. The fungal strain studied was susceptible to all tested antifungal medications and shared similarities with a strain previously found in Moldova. This study helps doctors understand how this emerging fungal infection spreads globally and whether it’s developing resistance to treatments.

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Xenorhabdus spp.: An Overview of the Useful Facets of Mutualistic Bacteria of Entomopathogenic Nematodes

Xenorhabdus bacteria are tiny organisms that naturally live inside microscopic worms used for pest control. These bacteria produce powerful substances that can kill harmful insects, fungi, and plant-damaging worms without using toxic chemical pesticides. Scientists are discovering new types of these bacteria and their compounds, which could help create safer products for farming and disease control. This research shows these beneficial microbes could replace harmful chemicals in agriculture.

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Chilean Aloysia Essential Oils: A Medicinal Plant Resource for Postharvest Disease Control

Researchers tested essential oils from two Chilean herbs, Aloysia citriodora and Aloysia polystachya, against fungi that cause fruit rot after harvest. They found that oil from Aloysia citriodora, especially a compound called farnesol, effectively killed the disease-causing fungi in laboratory tests. These natural oils could replace synthetic fungicides that are becoming less effective and harmful to the environment, offering farmers a safer way to protect their fruit during storage and transport.

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Targeted long-read sequencing analysis and antifungal susceptibility profiles of Sporothrix schenckii isolates from Thailand

Researchers in Thailand studied a fungal infection called sporotrichosis that affects both cats and people. They used advanced DNA sequencing technology to identify the specific type of fungus and understand how it’s related to similar fungi found in other parts of the world. They also tested how well common antifungal medications work against these fungi and found that some isolates are becoming harder to treat.

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