Research Topic: Medicinal

Diversity and functions of fungal VOCs with special reference to the multiple bioactivities of the mushroom alcohol

Fungi release various volatile compounds (VOCs) that have different effects on organisms and the environment. The most notable fungal VOC is 1-octen-3-ol, also called mushroom alcohol, which gives mushrooms their distinctive smell. This compound can inhibit fungal growth, repel insects, and help control plant diseases, but at high concentrations it may be toxic to humans and trigger immune responses. Scientists use fruit flies as a model to study how these fungal compounds affect health.

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Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals novel hyphomycetous fungi on medicinal plants in Southwestern China

Researchers in China discovered 12 new species of fungi living on medicinal plants, along with several previously unreported fungal occurrences. These fungi were identified using both microscopic examination and DNA analysis. Some of these fungi can produce harmful toxins, while others produce beneficial compounds that affect medicinal plant quality. This research helps us better understand the invisible fungal world living on the plants we use for medicine.

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The First Whole Genome Sequence and Methylation Profile of Gerronema lapidescens QL01

Scientists have sequenced the complete genome of Lei Wan (Gerronema lapidescens), a medicinal mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating parasitic infections and digestive problems. The research reveals the mushroom’s genetic blueprint, including genes responsible for producing beneficial compounds and adapting to rocky mountain environments. This foundational work aims to enable sustainable cultivation of this rare fungus and development of new medicinal treatments, addressing current conservation threats from over-harvesting.

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Pathogenic mucorales: Deciphering their cell wall polysaccharidome and immunostimulatory potential

Researchers studied three dangerous fungi that cause serious infections called mucormycosis. They examined the outer coating of these fungi, called the cell wall, which is made of sugar-like molecules called polysaccharides. When these fungi were exposed to human immune cells, they triggered strong inflammatory responses. Understanding these fungal components could help develop better treatments and vaccines for this life-threatening infection.

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Identification of fungal agents isolated from burn lesions using mycological and molecular methods in patients admitted to Velayat burn hospital in Rasht city during 2022–2023

Researchers studied fungal infections in burn patients at a hospital in Iran and found that non-albicans Candida fungi, particularly a species called Candida parapsilosis, were the most common culprits. Using laboratory cultures and genetic testing, they identified 101 fungal infections out of 380 burn patients. Understanding which fungi cause these infections is important for doctors to choose the right treatment and improve patient outcomes.

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Neonatal Invasive Candidiasis: Current Concepts

Neonatal invasive candidiasis is a serious fungal infection affecting premature and very low birth weight babies. The types of fungi causing these infections are changing globally, with more resistant strains appearing, especially in lower-income countries. Treatment options are limited by this resistance, making prevention through hygiene and proper hospital practices increasingly important.

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Clinico-epidemiological evaluation of pharmaceutical/non-pharmaceutical poisoning in a referral poisoning emergency in the Central part of Iran

This study examined over 5,700 poisoning cases in Iran to compare outcomes between people poisoned by medications versus other substances like pesticides. Medication poisonings were more common in women and were usually intentional overdoses, while pesticide poisonings were more common in men and often accidental. People poisoned by non-pharmaceutical substances had worse outcomes with a higher death rate. Understanding these differences helps hospitals and communities develop better prevention strategies and treatment approaches.

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

Cordyceps militaris is a medicinal fungus used in traditional medicine for treating fatigue, boosting immunity, and fighting cancer. This review explains how growing conditions—such as the type of grain or insect substrate used, light exposure, temperature, and nutrient balance—dramatically affect the production of beneficial compounds like cordycepin. The research shows that mixing grains with insect-based materials and using specific light wavelengths can significantly increase the potency of these medicinal fungi, making them more effective for health applications.

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Yamabushitake Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Pers. 1797) Mycelium Improves Reproductive System Dysfunction in Male Rats Induced by Polystyrene Microplastics

A study found that Yamabushitake mushroom extract can help protect male reproductive health from damage caused by polystyrene microplastics found in everyday plastic products. The mushroom’s active compound, erinacine A, reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in rats, improved hormone levels, and enhanced sperm quality. This research suggests the mushroom could be developed into a supplement for men concerned about their fertility and reproductive health in our plastic-filled environment.

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Cryptococcus: Emerging host risk factors for infection

This scientific review examines why some people without HIV are getting serious Cryptococcus infections and becoming very sick. Researchers found that people with liver problems, kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune diseases face much higher risk. The review also identifies new drugs and therapies that can surprisingly increase infection risk, highlighting the importance of understanding individual patient factors when treating these dangerous fungal infections.

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