Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Catching a fungal enzyme open for business

A new study in Nature has filled in the gaps of how a widely used antifungal drug works, revealing its surprising mechanism and providing critical insights for designing next-generation therapies. The research found that caspofungin binds to a growing chain of cell-wall material produced by an enzyme, effectively stalling its activity.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2026

A comparison of the efficacy of non-chemical versus chemical cleansers against candida species on removable dental prostheses

This systematic review found that both chemical and non-chemical denture cleansers effectively reduce Candida species, with chemical agents demonstrating more consistent antifungal action. Non-chemical agents preserve material integrity and are preferred by patients for their taste and ease of use.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Exploratory Research in Pharmacology·DateFeb 24, 2026

A CRISPR fingerprint of pathogenic C. auris fungi

A new diagnostic platform enables rapid and accurate detection of drug-resistant C. auris pathogens using CRISPR technology, allowing for more effective treatment and prevention of hospital outbreaks. The dSHERLOCK test can detect the presence of mutations causing antimicrobial resistance in just 40 minutes.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026

Uncovering the shield: gene duplication behind antifungal resistance in Madurella fahalii

Researchers discovered that a specific gene duplication in the fungus Madurella fahalii enables it to neutralize medication, leading to effective treatment challenges. This study highlights the potential of molecular techniques to uncover drug resistance mechanisms and pave the way for targeted therapies.

SourceChiba University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2025

Deadly fungus beaten with new type of treatment

Researchers have discovered a new way to combat fatal fungal infections by blocking the production of fatty acids, a major component of fats. The breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments against species-resistant fungi.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJul 31, 2023

Red algae-derived metal-polysaccharide shows promise for anti-microbial applications because of its long and dense spikes

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev discovered a new compound derived from marine red microalga that exhibits effective antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungus. The compound's unique structure, featuring long and dense spikes, allows it to poke holes in bacterial membranes and kill off infections.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalMarine Drugs·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Fetal exposure to tributyltin linked to obesity

A UC Irvine study reveals that low-dose exposure to the chemical tributyltin during pregnancy can lead to obesity in offspring and great-grandchildren, affecting gene expression and fat accumulation. The findings suggest permanent effects without subsequent exposure, highlighting the risks of endocrine-disrupting compounds.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJan 24, 2013

Voriconazole: A highly potent treatment for fungal infections

The study confirms voriconazole's effectiveness in combating a wide range of fungal infections, including those caused by Candida species. It is also noted that voriconazole exhibits higher potency and spectrum activity compared to itraconazole against yeast species.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternational Journal of Antimicrobial Agents·DateDec 16, 2008