antifungal activity – Page 18

Synergistic potential and apoptosis induction of Bunium persicum essential oil and its pure components, cuminaldehyde and γ-terpinene, in combination with fluconazole on Candida albicans isolates: in vitro and in silico evaluation

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Researchers studied how an essential oil from black cumin seeds (Bunium persicum) and two of its key active components could work together with the antifungal drug fluconazole to fight Candida albicans infections, including drug-resistant strains. Using laboratory tests and computer modeling, they found that cuminaldehyde, one of the main components, was particularly effective when combined with fluconazole, killing yeast cells through multiple mechanisms. This suggests that natural plant compounds could be valuable partners with conventional antifungal medications to overcome drug resistance.

Epidermophyton floccosum, an etiological agent of tinea pedis and tinea unguium: about two cases

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Two elderly patients were diagnosed with fungal nail and foot infections caused by Epidermophyton floccosum, a fungus that has become less common in recent years. Both cases were confirmed using advanced molecular testing (real-time PCR) alongside traditional laboratory methods. The infections were successfully treated with terbinafine, an antifungal medication. This case report highlights the importance of using modern diagnostic techniques to accurately identify and treat fungal infections.

The glycolipid flocculosin-A from the fungus Anthracocystis flocculosa, or how to deal with cotton-wool-like crystals

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Scientists successfully determined the three-dimensional structure of flocculosin-A, a powerful antifungal compound produced by a fungus called Anthracocystis flocculosa. The main challenge was that the compound naturally forms very thin, needle-like crystals unsuitable for analysis. By using a special cooling and heating cycle, researchers were able to grow better crystals and use X-ray diffraction to reveal the compound’s complete molecular structure, which contains a sugar backbone connected to two fatty acid chains with specific arrangements.

Invasive fungal otitis media with peripheral facial paralysis

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This case describes a rare fungal ear infection caused by Aspergillus fumigatus that spread to the mastoid bone and caused facial nerve paralysis. The patient had ear drainage and hearing loss for 4 years before diagnosis. Treatment required two surgical procedures to remove infected tissue combined with 6 months of antifungal medication, eventually resulting in healing and recovery of facial nerve function.

Synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Trichoderma harzianum and its bio-efficacy on Alternaria brassicae

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Scientists have developed an eco-friendly way to create zinc oxide nanoparticles using a beneficial fungus called Trichoderma harzianum. These nanoparticles effectively kill Alternaria brassicae, a fungus that damages mustard crops and can reduce yields by up to 57%. The nanoparticles work better and at lower doses than traditional chemical fungicides, making them a promising sustainable solution for farmers. This represents an important advancement in protecting crops without harming the environment.

Antifungal effects of metabolites from Arthrinium sp. 2–65 and identification of main active ingredients

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Scientists discovered that a fungus called Arthrinium sp. 2–65, found living inside a wild plant called Thymus mongolicus, produces two special compounds that can kill the fungus responsible for grey mould disease. Grey mould is a major problem for farmers worldwide, damaging crops like tomatoes, grapes, and strawberries. These newly identified compounds were tested and showed excellent effectiveness against the disease, offering a promising natural alternative to chemical pesticides that have become less effective due to resistance and environmental concerns.

Antifungal and other bioactive properties of the volatilome of Streptomyces scabiei

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This research discovered that the bacterium Streptomyces scabiei, which causes common scab disease on potatoes and other root crops, produces a variety of natural chemical compounds that can kill harmful fungi and promote plant growth. Scientists identified 36 different volatile chemicals released by this bacterium, including some previously unknown for their antifungal abilities. These findings suggest that despite being a plant pathogen, this bacterium may actually help protect crops from more dangerous diseases, offering potential for developing natural alternatives to synthetic pesticides.

Unlocking Reishi’s secrets: nutritional and medicinal traits of Ganoderma lucidum isolated from tree bark in Egypt

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Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) from Egypt show promise as natural medicine. Researchers tested extracts and found they can fight bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells in laboratory tests. The mushrooms are rich in beneficial compounds like vitamins and antioxidants. While the extract was not as strong as conventional drugs, it showed good safety profiles and potential for development into new medicines.

Clinical Significance and Therapeutic Challenges of Scedosporium spp. and Lomentospora prolificans Isolates in a Single-Center Cohort of Lung Transplant Recipients

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This study examined dangerous fungal infections caused by Scedosporium and Lomentospora species in lung transplant patients at a Spanish hospital. Researchers found these infections were uncommon but very serious, with high death rates especially from the Lomentospora type. Current antifungal drugs often don’t work well against these fungi, highlighting the need for better treatment options.

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.

therapeutic action: antifungal activity