Medicinal – Page 71

Transcriptomics Insights into Targeting CK2 Complex in Cryptococcus neoformans: Implications for Large-Scale Antifungal Virtual Screening

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Scientists studied how a fungus called Cryptococcus neoformans causes serious brain infections and found that disabling a specific protein complex (CK2) could be an effective treatment strategy. Using computer analysis of genetic data, they identified three existing drugs—amphotericin B, idarubicin, and candicidin—that could potentially target and kill this dangerous fungus. This research provides a foundation for developing better treatments for cryptococcal meningitis, a life-threatening infection that kills hundreds of thousands of people annually, especially those with weakened immune systems.

Isolation, identification and antibacterial activity of endophytes from the seeds of Panax japonicus

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Researchers isolated and identified 10 different microorganisms (7 fungi and 3 bacteria) living inside Panax japonicus seeds. They found that a specific type of bacteria (Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas) may help promote seed growth, while certain fungi may inhibit it. The study also determined the best way to sterilize seeds before experimentation, which is important for studying plant propagation of this valuable medicinal herb.

Beyond division and morphogenesis: Considering the emerging roles of septins in plasma membrane homeostasis and cell wall integrity in human fungal pathogens

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Septins are protein structures inside fungal cells that help them divide and maintain their outer layers. This review explains how these proteins play crucial roles in fungal infections by helping pathogens survive stress conditions and respond to host defenses. By understanding how septins work, scientists might develop new antifungal medications that target these proteins to fight stubborn fungal infections.

Isolation and identification of endophytic fungi from Alhagi sparsifolia Shap. and their antibacterial activity

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Researchers discovered ten types of fungi living inside the medicinal plant Alhagi sparsifolia that were never found before. Two of these fungi produced substances that killed harmful bacteria better than standard antibiotics, especially against E. coli. The researchers identified 26 different compounds in these fungi that are responsible for their antibacterial effects. This research opens new possibilities for developing natural antibacterial medicines from fungal sources.

Oxidative Stress in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 and Its Attenuation by Herbal Remedies in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Systematic Review

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Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 is a serious brain disease that causes movement problems and gets worse over time. Current medications help but often have unpleasant side effects. This review examined fifteen traditional Chinese herbal remedies that show promise in protecting nerve cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, a harmful chemical process in the body. These herbs work through multiple protective mechanisms and may eventually be tested in patients.

Diagnostic performance of Aspergillus-specific immunoglobulin G immunochromatographic and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay testing in chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: comparative analysis across subtypes and influencing factors

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This study compared two blood tests for diagnosing chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA), a chronic fungal lung infection caused by Aspergillus. The rapid immunochromatographic test (ICT) performed better overall than the traditional ELISA laboratory test, making it more useful as a quick diagnostic tool, especially in areas without advanced laboratory facilities. However, both tests were less accurate in patients who had recently taken antifungal or steroid medications.

Clinical aspects and recent advances in fungal diseases impacting human health

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Fungal infections are increasingly common health threats affecting over a billion people worldwide, ranging from minor allergies to serious life-threatening infections. The biggest problems are that fungi are becoming resistant to current medications, diagnosis can be difficult and slow, and treatment options are limited. Recent developments include new antifungal drugs like ibrexafungerp and rezafungin that work differently from older medications, offering hope for treating resistant infections. Better awareness among doctors and patients, faster diagnostic methods, and responsible use of antifungals are essential to combat this growing public health challenge.

Neosartorya udagawae pulmonary infection requiring a surgical treatment in a paediatric haematopoietic progenitor cell recipient

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A three-year-old boy with leukemia received a bone marrow transplant and developed a serious fungal lung infection caused by Neosartorya udagawae, a rare fungal pathogen. Despite receiving multiple antifungal medications at appropriate doses, the infection continued to worsen and spread in his lungs. Doctors ultimately had to surgically remove the infected portion of his lung (left upper lobe) to successfully treat the infection, and the child recovered completely without recurrence after three years of follow-up.

Influence of Culture Conditions on Bioactive Compounds in Cordyceps militaris: A Comprehensive Review

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Cordyceps militaris is a medicinal fungus used in traditional medicine to treat fatigue, boost immunity, and fight disease. This comprehensive review explains how different growing conditions—including the type of food (substrate), light exposure, temperature, and nutrient ratios—affect the production of powerful healing compounds like cordycepin and polysaccharides. The review compares growing methods using grains versus insects, showing that insect-based cultivation produces higher concentrations of beneficial compounds. Key recommendations for the future include developing standardized growing protocols and integrating advanced research techniques to scale up production sustainably.

Fungal β-Glucans: Biological Properties, Immunomodulatory Effects, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

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β-glucans are beneficial compounds found in fungi and some plants that help your body in multiple ways. They boost your immune system, lower cholesterol and blood sugar, protect against oxidative stress, and may help fight cancer and infections. Recent research shows they could be useful as diagnostic markers for fungal infections and as vaccine boosters, especially for diseases like COVID-19.

Research Topic: Medicinal