Medicinal – Page 166

Bibliometric, taxonomic, and medicinal perspectives of Ganoderma neo-japonicum Imazeki: A mini review

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Ganoderma neo-japonicum, known as purple Lingzhi, is a mushroom traditionally used by indigenous communities in Malaysia and other Asian countries to treat various health conditions. This review examines 36 scientific studies published between 1991 and 2021, showing that the mushroom contains special compounds that can fight cancer cells, lower blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. While laboratory studies show promising results, the mushroom still needs more clinical testing in humans before it can be widely used as a medicine.

Pore-Forming Cardiotoxin VVA2 (Volvatoxin A2) Variant I82E/L86K Is an Atypical Duplex-Specific Nuclease

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Researchers discovered that a toxic protein from edible mushrooms called VVA2 has a hidden ability to cut double-stranded DNA. When modified to remove its toxic effects, this protein became a powerful DNA-cutting enzyme that works best at warm temperatures and requires specific metal ions to function. This discovery could have practical applications in DNA research and diagnostic testing.

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.

Exploring the Antifungal Potential of Lawsone-Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: Growth Inhibition and Biofilm Disruption

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Researchers developed a new antifungal treatment by loading lawsone (a compound from henna plants) into tiny particles called mesoporous silica nanoparticles. When tested against common fungal infections caused by Candida bacteria, this nano-formulation was more effective than lawsone alone at killing the fungi and breaking down protective biofilm structures. The treatment showed no harm to normal human cells, suggesting it could be a promising natural alternative to treat stubborn fungal infections that resist current antifungal drugs.

Candida albicans Goliath cells pioneer biofilm formation

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When Candida albicans fungi run out of zinc, they transform into larger cells called ‘Goliath cells’ that are exceptionally sticky to plastic surfaces. Scientists found that these Goliath cells are much better at sticking to catheters and other medical devices than regular yeast cells, even when blood is flowing past them. This discovery helps explain why fungal infections on catheters are so common and could lead to better ways to prevent these dangerous infections that affect hospitalized patients.

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.

Investigation of the In Vitro Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase, Antiurease, Antityrosinase, and Cytotoxic Properties of a Novel Compound: 4-Methoxy-2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)Benzo[d][1,3,2]Dioxaborole

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Scientists created a new chemical compound containing boron that showed promise as a potential medicine. The compound was effective at neutralizing harmful molecules in cells and inhibiting enzymes related to Alzheimer’s disease. Importantly, it did not damage healthy cells or kill cancer cells, suggesting it could be safe for future medical applications in treating various diseases.

Cordyceps militaris and Armillaria mellea formula alleviates depressive behaviors via microglia regulation in an unpredictable chronic mild stress animal model

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Two medicinal mushrooms, Cordyceps militaris and Armillaria mellea, when combined as a formula, can help reduce depression-like symptoms in stressed animals. The formula works by balancing immune cells in the brain called microglia and restoring normal chemical messenger function. This treatment shows promise as a natural alternative to conventional antidepressants with fewer side effects.

Etiological Agents and Predisposing Factors of Superficial Fungal Infections in Northeastern Argentina

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Researchers studied fungal skin infections in a community in northeastern Argentina, finding that 37% of patients had these infections. The most common cause was a fungus called Trichophyton tonsurans. Poor living conditions like overcrowding and lack of clean water increased infection risk. The study shows that fungal skin infections are a significant health problem in areas with limited access to basic sanitation and water services.

Fungal peritonitis in a patient on peritoneal dialysis caused by Hyphopichia burtonii: A rare pathogen in human infection

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A woman undergoing peritoneal dialysis for kidney failure developed a serious fungal infection caused by a rare yeast called Hyphopichia burtonii. Doctors identified the infection using advanced laboratory techniques and treated her with antifungal medication after removing her dialysis catheter. She recovered well and switched to a different type of dialysis. This case highlights how unusual fungi can cause infections in patients with weakened kidney function.

Research Topic: Medicinal