Medicinal – Page 134

PRMT5 promotes cellulase production by regulating the expression of cellulase gene eg2 through histone methylation in Ganoderma lucidum

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Scientists discovered that a protein called PRMT5 in Ganoderma lucidum mushroom plays a key role in producing cellulase enzymes that break down plant cellulose. By controlling a specific gene (eg2) through a process called histone methylation, PRMT5 increases cellulase production. This finding could help develop more efficient ways to convert agricultural waste like corn straw into useful sugars for biofuels and other industrial products.

Prevalence of fungi and their antifungal and disinfectant resistance in hospital environments: insights into combating nosocomial mycoses

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This study examined how fungal infections spread in hospital settings by testing air and surfaces in Iranian hospital intensive care units. Researchers found that dangerous fungi like Aspergillus and Rhizopus were commonly present, especially in air ducts, and many of these fungi could resist common antifungal medications and disinfectants. The findings suggest that hospital environments serve as sources of infection for vulnerable patients and that better cleaning and air filtration systems are needed to protect hospitalized patients.

Corrigendum: Navigating the fungal battlefield: cysteine-rich antifungal proteins and peptides from Eurotiales

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This article provides a correction to previously published research about special proteins and peptides produced by certain fungi that can fight other fungal infections. The corrections involve fixing errors in a table that listed important chemical properties of these antifungal molecules. These molecules come from various Penicillium and Aspergillus fungal species and could potentially be used to develop new antifungal treatments.

A prospective, multicenter study of invasive fungal disease caused by molds in children and adults in Chile

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Researchers in Chile studied serious mold infections in 176 hospitalized patients (adults and children) over two years. They found that aspergillosis (a lung infection caused by Aspergillus mold) was the most common, especially in patients whose immune systems were compromised by cancer, transplants, or medications. Interestingly, nearly 40% of cases also involved COVID-19 infection. Although almost all patients received antifungal medications, survival rates were concerning, with about one-third of patients still alive after six months.

Recent Advances in Biosynthesis Technology and Future Functional Foods

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Scientists are using engineered microorganisms and advanced fermentation techniques to create healthy food ingredients in a sustainable way. This editorial highlights seven studies showing how these biotechnology approaches improve functional foods, from creating probiotic strains and preserving fish to developing nutrient-enriched biscuits and discovering natural compounds with protective health effects. These innovations offer practical solutions for making foods healthier while reducing environmental impact compared to traditional methods.

Prevalence of Candida and Other Yeasts in Vulvovaginal Infections during Pregnancy: A 10-Year Serbian Survey

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This study examined yeast infections in pregnant Serbian women over 10 years, finding that nearly half had vulvovaginal yeast infections. While Candida albicans remained the most common cause, other yeast species are increasingly found and can be harder to treat. The research emphasizes the importance of accurate laboratory identification of yeast species to guide proper antifungal treatment and prevent serious complications for both mother and newborn.

Treatment and diagnostic challenges associated with the novel and rapidly emerging antifungal-resistant dermatophyte, Trichophyton indotineae

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A new type of fungal infection called Trichophyton indotineae has emerged and spread globally, particularly from India. It causes widespread skin infections that are difficult to treat because the fungus resists common antifungal medications. Doctors and laboratories need to be aware of this infection to properly identify it and choose effective treatments, especially for patients with travel history to affected regions.

In silico screening and molecular dynamics analysis of natural DHPS enzyme inhibitors targeting Acinetobacter baumannii

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Researchers used computer modeling to find natural compounds from plants and mushrooms that can inhibit a key bacterial enzyme (DHPS) in dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria called Acinetobacter baumannii. They tested thousands of natural molecules and identified two promising candidates that bind strongly to this enzyme and prevent bacteria from producing folic acid, which they need to survive. The study suggests these natural compounds could potentially be developed into new antibiotics to fight infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria.

Trichosporon species bloodstream infections in a tertiary care hospital in the western region of Saudi Arabia: A 7-year retrospective chart review from 2016 to 2022

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This study examined a rare but dangerous fungal infection called Trichosporonosis that affects the bloodstream in hospitalized patients. Researchers found that this infection kills about 60% of patients despite treatment with antifungal medications. The infection is often caused by a fungus called Trichosporon asahii and typically occurs in patients with weakened immune systems who are already hospitalized and using catheters.

Inhibition Mechanism of Cinnamomum burmannii Leaf Essential Oil Against Aspergillus flavus and Aflatoxins

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This research shows that essential oil from cinnamon leaves can effectively prevent a dangerous fungus (Aspergillus flavus) from contaminating stored foods like peanuts and grains, and stops it from producing a cancer-causing toxin called aflatoxin. The oil works by damaging the fungus’s cell membrane, disrupting its energy production, and triggering stress responses. Ten main aromatic compounds in the oil, especially eucalyptol and borneol, are responsible for this protective effect. This suggests cinnamon leaf oil could be used as a natural, safe alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting stored food.

Research Topic: Medicinal