Medicinal – Page 82

Antifungal Activity of Sesamol on Pestalotiopsis neglecta: Interfering with Cell Membrane and Energy Metabolism

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Researchers found that sesamol, a natural compound found in sesame oil, effectively kills a harmful fungus that damages pine trees and other plants. The study showed that sesamol damages the fungus’s cell membranes and disrupts its energy production, ultimately killing it. These findings suggest sesamol could be developed as a natural alternative to chemical fungicides for protecting crops and forests from disease.

Epidemiology of Onychomycosis in the United States Characterized Using Molecular Methods, 2015–2024

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This large study examined over 710,000 nail samples to identify which fungi cause nail infections in the United States. Using modern molecular testing combined with microscopic analysis, researchers found that while the fungus T. rubrum is most common, other molds and yeasts cause many infections too. Importantly, women and older adults are more likely to have infections from these other organisms, which are often harder to treat with standard antifungal medications.

In Vitro Activity of Nitroxoline (5-Nitro-8-Hydroxyquinoline) Against Aspergillus Species

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Researchers tested an old antibiotic called nitroxoline against dangerous fungal infections caused by Aspergillus species. The drug works by removing important minerals like zinc that these fungi need to survive. Testing showed nitroxoline was very effective against these fungi, even against strains that had developed resistance to modern antifungal drugs. This suggests nitroxoline could potentially be repurposed as a new treatment option for serious fungal infections.

Advances in the extraction, purification, structural characterization, and elucidation of the biological functions of polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus

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Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as the monkey head mushroom, contains special molecules called polysaccharides that have numerous health benefits. Researchers have found that these polysaccharides can boost immunity, lower cholesterol and blood sugar, fight tumors, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy gut bacteria. Different extraction methods and purification processes can be used to obtain these beneficial compounds, making them useful for developing health supplements and medicines.

Beta-Glucans from Fungi: Biological and Health-Promoting Potential in the COVID-19 Pandemic Era

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This article reviews how beta-glucans, natural compounds found in mushrooms, can boost your immune system and help fight diseases including COVID-19. These compounds work by activating immune cells and reducing dangerous inflammatory responses in the body. Mushroom beta-glucans are safe, easy to take by mouth, and available in many edible mushroom varieties like shiitake and oyster mushrooms.

Kidney Injury Induced by High-Dose Chaga Mushroom Consumption: Experimental Evidence in a Rat Model

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This study examined whether consuming large amounts of Chaga mushroom can damage the kidneys in rats. The researchers found that high-dose Chaga consumption led to kidney injury through accumulation of oxalate (a naturally occurring compound in the mushroom), causing oxidative damage and cell death in kidney tissue. The findings suggest that while Chaga mushroom is promoted as a health supplement, excessive long-term consumption may harm kidney function, particularly in susceptible individuals.

In vitro and in vivo efficacy of the antimycobacterial molecule SQ109 against the human pathogenic fungus, Cryptococcus neoformans

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Researchers discovered that SQ109, an antimycobacterial drug, can effectively kill Cryptococcus fungi that cause serious brain infections in people with weakened immune systems. Unlike current treatments, cryptococcal cells don’t easily develop resistance to SQ109, and it works even better when combined with fluconazole. In mouse studies, SQ109 successfully treated cryptococcal infections, suggesting it could be a valuable new treatment option for patients worldwide, especially in resource-limited regions.

A Unique Case of Fungal Endometritis Caused by Aspergillus quadrilineatus in an Immunocompetent Woman and Literature Review

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A 64-year-old woman experienced persistent vaginal bleeding for three months, which was found to be caused by a rare fungal infection (Aspergillus quadrilineatus) in her uterus. Through tissue examination and molecular testing, doctors identified the fungus and found it was sensitive to common antifungal medications. The patient was successfully treated with antifungal medication combined with surgical cleaning of the uterus, making a complete recovery. This case highlights that fungal infections should be considered when patients have abnormal vaginal bleeding, even if they appear otherwise healthy.

Optimization of triterpenoids biosynthesis in Athelia termitophila as a source of natural products

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Researchers optimized growing conditions for a parasitic termite fungus called Athelia termitophila to produce more triterpenoids, which are medicinal compounds with health benefits. By systematically testing different nutrients and fermentation parameters, they increased triterpenoid production by 1.9 times and fungal biomass by 1.66 times. This breakthrough makes it more practical and cost-effective to produce these natural compounds for use in pharmaceuticals and functional foods.

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

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Chestnut rot caused by the fungus Botryosphaeria dothidea is a major problem during fruit storage. Researchers found that essential oil from perilla plants and its main component perillaldehyde effectively kill this fungus by damaging its cell walls and membranes. This natural solution could replace harmful synthetic fungicides while keeping chestnuts fresh longer during storage.

Research Topic: Medicinal