Research Topic: Medicinal

Acidic pH Modulates Cell Wall and Melanization in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, Affecting Macrophage Interaction

A dangerous fungal infection called paracoccidioidomycosis affects people in Latin America. Researchers found that when this fungus encounters acidic conditions similar to those inside immune cells in the body, it protects itself by producing a dark pigment called melanin and changing its cell surface. These changes help the fungus hide from the immune system and reduce the ability of immune cells called macrophages to attack and destroy it.

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Urosepsis From Nephrolithiasis Caused by Candida glabrata: A Rare Etiology of Urinary Sepsis in an Immunocompetent Patient

A 41-year-old man with kidney stones developed a serious bloodstream infection caused by Candida glabrata, a type of yeast fungus that rarely infects healthy people. Although he initially received antibiotics, his condition worsened until doctors identified the fungal infection through blood tests. After placing a drainage tube in his kidney and treating him with an antifungal medication called micafungin, he recovered well. This case highlights the importance of considering fungal infections when standard antibiotics fail to treat kidney stone-related infections.

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Traditional uses, chemical components and pharmacological activities of the genus Ganoderma P. Karst.: a review

Ganoderma, a medicinal fungus used in traditional medicine for over 2000 years, contains many beneficial compounds including triterpenes and polysaccharides. Scientific research has confirmed its effectiveness in treating various conditions including cancer, diabetes, infections, and inflammation. The fungus works by boosting the immune system, reducing oxidative stress, and directly inhibiting disease-causing organisms. Modern cultivation methods have made Ganoderma products widely available as supplements and medicines worldwide.

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Multidirectional Characterization of Phytochemical Profile and Health-Promoting Effects of Ziziphora bungeana Juz. Extracts

Ziziphora bungeana, a traditional medicinal plant from Kazakhstan, was studied for its health benefits. Scientists found it contains powerful plant compounds that fight bacteria and fungal infections, especially those causing skin problems. The extracts work similarly to commercial skin-lightening agents and show promise for treating infections and skin conditions without significant harm to healthy cells.

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Progress of Antimicrobial Mechanisms of Stilbenoids

Stilbenoids are natural compounds found in plants that can fight harmful bacteria and fungi in multiple ways. Unlike traditional antibiotics that only kill microbes, stilbenoids can also prevent infections by disrupting biofilm formation and weakening pathogen virulence. These compounds show promise in combating drug-resistant infections without promoting further resistance development, making them valuable candidates for new antibiotic medicines.

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Critical review on chemical compositions and health-promoting effects of mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill

Agaricus blazei Murill is an edible mushroom that contains many beneficial compounds including polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Research shows it may help boost the immune system, reduce blood sugar levels, protect the liver, fight inflammation, and even have anti-cancer properties. While animal studies show promising results, more human clinical trials are needed to confirm its health benefits and establish proper dosing for therapeutic use.

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Inhibitory Effects and Mechanisms of Perilla Essential Oil and Perillaldehyde against Chestnut Pathogen Botryosphaeria dothidea

Chestnuts often rot during storage due to fungal infection. This study found that oil extracted from perilla leaves, particularly a compound called perillaldehyde, effectively prevents the fungus Botryosphaeria dothidea from growing. The antifungal compounds work by breaking down the protective layers of the fungal cells, causing them to leak and die. When applied to stored chestnuts, this natural oil significantly extends their shelf life without harming human health.

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Co-application of dazomet and azoxystrobin reconstructs soil microbial communities and suppresses the violet root rot of Codonopsis tangshen under a continuous cropping system

Codonopsis tangshen is an important medicinal plant in China, but it suffers from a serious fungal disease called violet root rot when grown repeatedly in the same soil. Researchers found that treating soil with dazomet fumigant followed by azoxystrobin fungicide completely eliminated this disease while dramatically increasing plant yields. The treatment works by reducing the harmful fungus while promoting growth of beneficial soil microbes that naturally suppress disease.

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Diversity and Distribution of Fungal Infections in Rwanda: High Risk and Gaps in Knowledge, Policy, and Interventions

This comprehensive review reveals that Rwanda faces significant challenges from fungal infections affecting humans, crops, and food security, yet has very limited systems to detect, report, or manage these infections. The study found various dangerous fungi causing infections ranging from vaginal candidiasis to serious disseminated infections, as well as crop-destroying soil fungi threatening bean production. The researchers emphasize that Rwanda urgently needs better diagnostic tools, trained healthcare workers, and coordinated public health strategies to combat the growing threat of fungal diseases.

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Biological Characteristics and Domestication of Dichomitus squalens and the Antioxidant Activity of Its Cultivated Fruiting Bodies

Researchers cultivated a type of fungus called Dichomitus squalens and extracted beneficial compounds called polysaccharides from its fruiting bodies. These polysaccharides showed strong antioxidant properties, meaning they can help protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. The study identified the best growing conditions for this fungus and developed methods for farming it, suggesting it could become a natural source of antioxidants for health applications.

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