Medicinal – Page 148

Shifting etiological agents of dermatophytosis: a molecular epidemiological study from Iran

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Researchers in Iran studied fungal infections of the scalp and nails using modern DNA testing methods. They found that the main fungus causing scalp infections (T. tonsurans) remains the most common, but a new species (T. indotineae) is increasingly causing nail infections and is resistant to common antifungal medicines. The study shows that traditional identification methods often misidentify these fungi, highlighting the importance of molecular testing for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Hypoglycemic Effect of Pleurotus citrinopileatus and Hericium erinaceus Buccal Tablets on Diabetic Mice

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Researchers created special tablets from two edible mushrooms (yellow oyster mushroom and lion’s mane) enriched with trace elements (chromium, zinc, germanium) to treat diabetes in mice. After three weeks of treatment, the high-dose tablets reduced blood sugar levels by 29%, improved cholesterol levels, boosted the body’s natural antioxidant defenses, and shifted the gut bacteria toward beneficial types that support metabolic health. These results suggest that mushroom-based treatments could potentially offer a natural way to help manage diabetes.

Pan-genomic characterization and structural variant analysis reveal insights into spore development and species diversity in Ganoderma

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Researchers completed the first comprehensive genome study of 15 Ganoderma (Lingzhi/Reishi) varieties, including five new Chinese strains. They discovered that specific genetic changes in the MSH4 gene dramatically increase spore production in one superior strain. These findings help explain why different Ganoderma varieties have different medicinal properties and can guide breeding of better medicinal mushroom varieties.

Centesimal Composition, Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities of Commercial Edible Oyster Mushrooms at Different Maturity Stages in Northern Thailand

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This study examined how oyster mushrooms change nutritionally and chemically as they mature from young to fully grown. Researchers found that while mature mushrooms have more overall nutrients and starch-like compounds, younger middle-stage mushrooms have higher levels of beneficial antioxidant compounds and special substances that may help manage blood sugar. The findings suggest that when and how you harvest mushrooms matters for what health benefits they provide, helping farmers and food makers decide when to pick mushrooms based on what they want to produce.

Mixed Infection With Aspergillosis and Actinomycosis in the Maxillary Sinus: A Case Report

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A 74-year-old woman with diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis developed a rare dual infection in her maxillary sinus (a cavity above the teeth) caused by both a fungus (Aspergillus) and bacteria (Actinomyces). Imaging tests initially suggested only fungal infection, but surgery and tissue examination revealed both organisms were present. The patient was successfully treated with surgical removal of the infected material combined with antibiotics, leading to complete recovery.

Infection caused by a cryptic fungal species, Blastomyces gilchristii, in a tiger

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A tiger at a veterinary hospital developed a serious fungal infection that affected its brain and lungs. Using advanced DNA sequencing technology, researchers identified the infection was caused by a previously unrecognized fungal species called Blastomyces gilchristii. This discovery was important because it showed that this dangerous fungus exists in areas where scientists previously thought it wasn’t found, and it highlights the importance of using modern genetic testing to identify unusual infections.

Natural Neuroinflammatory Modulators: Therapeutic Potential of Fungi-Derived Compounds in Selected Neurodegenerative Diseases

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This comprehensive review explores how compounds found in mushrooms could help treat serious brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Mushrooms contain natural substances such as certain carbohydrates, proteins, and fats that can reduce harmful inflammation in the brain and protect nerve cells from damage. Scientists have tested these mushroom-derived compounds in laboratory and animal models, finding they can improve memory, movement, and overall brain function. This research suggests mushrooms could become an important part of new treatments for these currently incurable neurological conditions.

Invasive Candidiasis in Contexts of Armed Conflict, High Violence, and Forced Displacement in Latin America and the Caribbean (2005–2025)

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Invasive candidiasis, a serious fungal blood infection caused by Candida species, is a major health crisis in Latin America and the Caribbean with death rates reaching 60% in vulnerable populations. The disease is worsening in areas affected by armed conflict, violence, and displacement where poor living conditions, overcrowding, malnutrition, and lack of healthcare create ideal conditions for the infection to develop and spread. Antifungal drugs are often unavailable or too expensive, and drug-resistant strains of Candida are becoming increasingly common, making treatment extremely challenging in these regions.

Association between Dietary Patterns and All-Cause Mortality in the Chinese Old: Analysis of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey Cohort

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This study examined how different eating patterns affect how long Chinese elderly people live. Researchers tracked 11,958 people aged 65 and older over 10 years and identified four main dietary patterns. The healthiest pattern—which included fruits, vegetables, nuts, and adequate staple foods—was associated with lower mortality risk for both men and women. The northeastern pattern with tea, garlic, and fermented vegetables also protected against early death.

Efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for invasive fungal infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

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This study reviewed clinical trials comparing a newer antifungal drug called isavuconazole with other commonly used antifungal medications for treating serious fungal infections, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems. The research found that isavuconazole works just as well as other antifungal drugs but may have fewer side effects, especially liver problems. When compared directly with voriconazole, isavuconazole showed fewer drug-related side effects overall, making it a good alternative option for patients who cannot tolerate other antifungal treatments.

Research Topic: Medicinal