Research Topic: Natural products

Chemical Content and Cytotoxic Activity on Various Cancer Cell Lines of Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) Growing on Betula pendula and Betula pubescens

This study examined chaga mushroom, a traditional medicine used against cancer, grown on two types of birch trees. Researchers tested chaga extracts on 31 different cancer cell types and found they were moderately effective at inhibiting cancer cell growth, particularly against liver and thyroid cancers. The chaga from silver birch (B. pendula) worked slightly better than that from downy birch (B. pubescens) due to higher levels of a compound called inotodiol.

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Sandalwood Sesquiterpene (Z)-α-Santalol Exhibits In Vivo Efficacy Against Madurella mycetomatis in Galleria mellonella Larvae

Researchers tested sandalwood compounds against a fungal infection that causes a tropical disease called eumycetoma. Using a laboratory model with wax moth larvae infected with the fungus, they found that a specific compound called (Z)-α-santalol significantly extended the survival of infected larvae. This compound was more effective than current antifungal drugs and showed promise as a potential new treatment for this neglected tropical disease.

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Phytochemical Composition and Wound Healing Properties of Echinacea angustifolia DC. Root Hydroalcoholic Extract

Echinacea angustifolia, a traditional medicinal plant, was studied for its wound-healing abilities using laboratory tests. Scientists found that the plant extract contains powerful antioxidant compounds, particularly one called echinacoside, and can help skin cells move and multiply to close wounds faster. The extract also reduces inflammation and protects cells from damage, supporting its long-standing traditional use for treating wounds and burns.

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mGem: How many fungal secondary metabolites are produced by filamentous fungi? Conservatively, at least 1.4 million

Scientists have discovered about 30,000 fungal compounds with useful properties, from life-saving antibiotics like penicillin to cholesterol-lowering drugs. However, new research suggests that fungi actually produce somewhere between 1.4 million and 4.3 million different chemical compounds, meaning we’ve only discovered about 1-2% of what’s out there. By studying the genomes of fungi, researchers estimate that for every fungal medicine we know about, there could be 50-100 more waiting to be discovered, representing an enormous opportunity for developing new drugs and therapies.

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Extraction and Identification of the Bioactive Metabolites Produced by Curvularia inaequalis, an Endophytic Fungus Collected in Iran from Echium khuzistanicum Mozaff

Researchers discovered a fungus living inside an Iranian medicinal plant that produces three natural compounds with powerful antimicrobial properties. The most promising compound, phomalactone, killed dangerous bacteria including MRSA and also prevented growth of fungal plant diseases. This discovery shows that exploring symbiotic fungi in medicinal plants could lead to new natural antibiotics and agricultural fungicides.

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Introduction to Traditional Medicine and Their Role in Prevention and Treatment of Emerging and Re-Emerging Diseases

This article explores how traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine can help prevent and treat infectious diseases, including COVID-19. These ancient healing systems use natural herbs and lifestyle changes to boost immunity and fight infections more holistically. Scientific evidence shows that natural compounds like curcumin from turmeric have real antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. By combining traditional knowledge with modern research, we may develop better treatments for emerging diseases.

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Synergistic impact of arbutin and kaempferol-7-O-α-l-rhamnopyranoside from Nephelium lappaceum L. on whitening efficacy and stability of cosmetic formulations

This research demonstrates that a natural compound from rambutan seeds works synergistically with arbutin to create more effective skin whitening products. The combination is 35 times more potent than arbutin alone at preventing melanin production in skin cells. The resulting cosmetic formulation maintains its effectiveness and stability for approximately 5.2 months, offering a safer natural alternative to conventional skin lightening agents that can cause irritation.

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Anticancer Activity of Demethylincisterol A3 and Related Incisterol-Type Fungal Products

This review examines a special group of fungal compounds called incisterols, with focus on demethylincisterol A3 (DM-A3), which shows promise as a cancer-fighting agent. DM-A3 works through multiple mechanisms: it blocks cancer cell growth pathways, inhibits specific cancer-promoting proteins, and has anti-inflammatory effects. The compound has shown strong activity against various cancer types in laboratory and animal studies, making it a candidate for further development as a potential cancer therapy.

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A Systematic Review on Important Risk Factors and Possible Involved Mechanisms of Medicinal Plants on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

This comprehensive review examined 43 medicinal plants that can help prevent and treat fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is increasingly common in developed countries. Most of these plants work by reducing cholesterol and triglycerides, helping with weight management, improving blood sugar control, and lowering blood pressure. The plants contain natural compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. Using these herbal supplements alongside other lifestyle changes may offer a promising natural approach to managing NAFLD and its related conditions.

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