antifungal activity – Page 35

Functional diversification of epidithiodiketopiperazine methylation and oxidation towards pathogenic fungi

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This research shows that Trichoderma hypoxylon, a beneficial fungus used in agriculture, produces different versions of antifungal compounds called epidithiodiketopiperazines (ETPs) to fight various harmful fungi. By deleting genes responsible for modifying these compounds, scientists found that different modifications work better against different pathogens—some modifications are more effective against mold fungi while others work better against grain pathogens. This demonstrates that the fungus uses chemical diversity as a strategy to protect crops from multiple threats.

Molecular epidemiology, diversity, and antifungal susceptibility profiles of clinical and environmental mucorales: a five-year multicenter study in Iran (2018–2023)

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This study examined dangerous mold infections called mucormycosis that became more common during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in Iran. Researchers tested over 180 fungal samples from patients and soil to understand which types of molds cause infections and which antifungal medicines work best against them. They found that two medicines, amphotericin B and posaconazole, were most effective, while fungi from soil samples were often more resistant to treatment than those from infected patients. This research helps doctors choose the right treatments for patients with these serious infections.

A New Species and Five New Records of Talaromyces (Eurotiales, Aspergillaceae) Belonging to Section Talaromyces in Korea

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Researchers surveying fungal diversity in Korea discovered one new species of Talaromyces fungus and confirmed five additional species previously unknown to the country. These fungi were isolated from soil, freshwater, and indoor air samples and identified using genetic analysis and visual characteristics. Many species in this fungal genus produce valuable compounds with potential medical and agricultural applications, making them important for biotechnology research.

Clinical Outcomes of Micafungin for Invasive Fungal Infections in the Obese and Nonobese

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This study examined whether obese patients treated with the antifungal drug micafungin for serious fungal infections had different outcomes compared to non-obese patients. Researchers reviewed 378 patient cases and found that both groups had similar success rates of about 50%, suggesting that the standard dose of micafungin works equally well in obese and non-obese patients. These findings suggest that doctors do not need to prescribe higher doses of micafungin specifically for obese patients, though more research is needed to fully understand how obesity affects antifungal treatment.

One-Pot Synthesis of Chiral Succinate Dehydrogenase Inhibitors and Antifungal Activity Studies

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Scientists developed a new method to create potent antifungal medications that can protect crops from destructive fungal diseases. By carefully controlling the molecular structure (chirality) of the compounds, they created drugs that are significantly more effective and potentially less toxic than existing treatments. Testing showed that the new compound called (S)-5f works 76 times better against gray mold fungus than its mirror-image counterpart, similar to how your left and right hands have the same shape but can’t be superimposed.

First report of Stemphylium lycopersici keratitis, a complex corneal infection case

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A 66-year-old man developed a severe corneal infection from a stone chip injury that didn’t improve with standard antibiotics. Doctors discovered the infection was caused by a rare plant fungus called Stemphylium lycopersici, combined with a herpes virus. Using advanced genetic testing (mNGS) to identify the exact pathogens, they prescribed targeted antifungal and antiviral medications along with a corneal transplant, successfully healing the infection and preserving his vision.

Evaluation of the Cytotoxicity and Antifungal Efficacy of Crocus sativus (saffron) Petals on Clinical Isolates of Candida albicans

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Researchers tested saffron petals to see if they could fight Candida albicans yeast infections. While saffron extract showed some antifungal activity, it was less powerful than the standard drug fluconazole. However, saffron was very safe and non-toxic to human cells, making it a promising natural alternative therapy worth exploring further.

Antimicrobial and antiparasitic potential of lupeol: antifungal effect on the Candida parapsilosis species complex and nematicidal activity against Caenorhabditis elegans

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Researchers tested a natural compound called lupeol against disease-causing yeasts and parasitic worms. Lupeol successfully killed or inhibited the growth of Candida yeast species that are becoming resistant to current medications. The compound also showed strong activity against parasitic roundworms. This discovery suggests lupeol could be developed as a new treatment option for fungal and parasitic infections.

Isolation and identification of antagonistic fungi for biocontrol of Impatiens hawkeri leaf spot disease and their growth-promoting potential

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Researchers discovered a beneficial fungus called Fusarium solani that prevents leaf spot disease in ornamental Impatiens hawkeri plants. This fungus not only fights the disease-causing pathogen but also promotes seed germination and plant growth. The findings suggest this fungus could replace harmful chemical pesticides while simultaneously acting as a natural fertilizer, benefiting both plant health and the environment.

A novel pan-fungal screening platform for antifungal drug discovery: proof of principle study

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Researchers developed a faster, more efficient screening method to test potential antifungal drugs against multiple disease-causing fungi simultaneously. Using an improved growth medium and screening 500 chemical fragments, they identified compounds with antifungal activity and demonstrated the platform can reliably detect promising drug candidates. This approach could accelerate the discovery of new antifungal medications, which are urgently needed as fungi develop resistance to current treatments.

therapeutic action: antifungal activity