Articles tagged with Fungal Infections
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Researchers have discovered fungal genes associated with the devastating witches' broom disease of the chocolate tree. The study identified 1,967 unique genes and 8,617 fungal genes active in infected green brooms, providing a new basis for developing targeted treatments.
Researchers developed a non-invasive method to detect Aspergillus fumigatus and other fungi causing pneumonia by analyzing patients' breath samples. The test identified 94% of patients with invasive aspergillosis, making it a potential tool for earlier and more targeted treatment.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham discovered how a rare fungus, Cryptococcus gattii, can infect healthy individuals by exploiting the body's immune response. The fungus triggers a 'division of labour' in its invading cells, allowing it to establish itself and cause life-threatening infections.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have discovered a long-distance messaging system in fungi that enables them to evade plant immune systems. By targeting this process, new fungicides could be developed to prevent crop damage and reduce losses estimated at $60 billion annually.
A new analysis found that FDG-PET technology is less accurate in diagnosing lung cancer versus benign disease in regions with high rates of histoplasmosis or tuberculosis. Misdiagnosis could lead to unnecessary tests and surgeries, with potential complications and mortality.
Researchers at LA BioMed are developing a vaccine to protect patients from healthcare-related infections such as Candida and MRSA. The NIH grant will support the study of samples from patients enrolled in an ongoing clinical trial to assess the efficacy of the vaccine.
A new antifungal, isavuconazole, has been shown to be as effective as an existing drug, voriconazole, in treating invasive mold disease in cancer patients. Isavuconazole had significantly fewer drug-related adverse events than voriconazole, particularly in the eye, skin, and liver.
A new study led by the University of Exeter warns that many global crop-producing countries will be overwhelmed by pests within the next 30 years if current trends continue. The research identifies the most invasive pest species, including fungi and nematodes, which are expected to spread rapidly due to climate change.
A parasitic fungus controls the behavior of ants by emitting specific chemicals when encountering their brain, not when infecting other ant species. The fungus produces a mixture of known and unknown chemicals that work in synergy to manipulate the ants' behavior.
Researchers at Duke University have identified three tree species as environmental hosts for the fungus Cryptococcus gattii, which causes life-threatening lung and brain infections. The study found that these tree species can serve as sources of human infections, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems.
Researchers found that infected ants died on the 'doorstep' of the colony, creating a sniper's alley for future hosts. The parasite can be controlled but not cured, functioning as a chronic disease.
A study in The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics found a combination of nucleic acid sequence-based amplification and real-time quantitative PCR detects aspergillosis with 100% accuracy. This diagnostic test has the potential to improve patient outcomes by providing early detection of this potentially deadly fungus.
The BCG vaccine has a 60-80% protective efficacy against severe forms of tuberculosis in children. Research found that the vaccine is effective against TB infection, with a 19% effectiveness rate among vaccinated children after exposure.
Researchers have created a new test to quickly identify snakes infected with Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, a fungus killing snakes in the Midwest and eastern US. The test allows for early intervention and potential treatment of infected snakes.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that TB-infected elephants have different immune responses to the infection compared to those without it. The team developed a new method to detect cytokine mRNA in elephants, which could lead to faster and more accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis in captive elephants.
A study by Duke University scientists identified a highly virulent strain of Mucor circinelloides fungus in Chobani yogurt that caused severe symptoms in consumers. The researchers found that the fungus can survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract and produce a lethal systemic infection in diabetic mice.
A study published in mBio reveals that a fungus found in contaminated Greek yogurt can cause disease in healthy humans. Researchers isolated the strain and tested it on mice, finding that it can cause lethal infections when injected into the bloodstream.
A study at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center used the Sleeping Beauty gene transfer system to modify T cells and fight invasive Aspergillus fungus. The approach has implications for genetically modifying T cells to target carbohydrate antigens, broadening their application in treating pathogens and malignancies.
Researchers found that a host genetic factor exacerbates lung damage in severe TB and suggests why gene mutations rendering it inactive are common. The study also showed that drugs targeting P2X7R could be used to treat aggressive forms of TB.
A study recommends a systems approach to controlling fungal infections in lucky bamboo, including training and disease management at source and application of systemic fungicides. Latent presence of Colletotrichum dracaenophilum found in up to 43% of non-inoculated stalks.
A fungal protein has been found to cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to infect the brain and cause deadly meningitis. This discovery opens up new avenues for treating brain infections and cancers by targeting the protein or using it as a drug delivery system.
Researchers found that not all plants react to the fungus in the same way, with some experiencing increased catalpol and citric acid levels while others show little change. The study's findings suggest that the impact of the fungal symbiosis on plant chemistry is not uniform across all plant species.
A study published in PNAS suggests that Kawasaki disease may be caused by airborne aerosols from northeast China, possibly related to the fungus Candida. The findings indicate a strong link between wind patterns and disease outbreaks in Japan, with Candida species identified as the dominant airborne fungus.
A recent study published in JAMA found that the antifungal medication fluconazole did not significantly reduce the risk of death or invasive candidiasis in extremely low birth-weight infants. The study included 361 infants from 32 NICUs and randomly assigned them to receive either fluconazole or placebo for six weeks.
A new study by University of Liverpool scientists has reduced the treatment for a brain infection caused by fungus to just three days. The research found that the commonly used drug amphotericin B deoxycholate (dAmB) is effective in clearing the fungus within three days, making it a game-changer for people with weakened immune systems ...
Researchers have determined the structure of a protein produced by Candida albicans, a common fungal pathogen that causes yeast infections and other diseases. The discovery could lead to the development of targeted compounds to treat widespread fungal infections.
Scientists have solved a decades-old medical mystery by understanding the mechanism of action of amphotericin, an antifungal drug that has been in use for over 50 years. The researchers found that most of the drug aggregates on the exterior of membranes, extracting sterols out of membranes like a sponge, leading to cell death.
Researchers have discovered the biochemical trigger that wakes up immune cells, allowing them to target invading bacteria and fungi. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulcers, and even TB.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have found a novel population of neutrophils that produce Interleukin 17 (IL-17) and exhibit enhanced microbial killing activity. These cells may contribute to both controlling infection and causing tissue damage, highlighting the need for further regulation.
Scientists discovered that Pichia holds at bay a harmful fungal yeast Candida by secreting material that controls Candida's growth and biofilm formation. This finding holds promise for therapeutic agents to stave off not only thrush but also other life-threatening systemic fungal infections.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that a family of fungi called Pichia suppresses the growth of disease-causing fungi like Candida. This antagonism is thought to be responsible for reducing the severity of oral candidiasis in HIV-infected individuals.
A recent study reveals that early childhood caries are caused by the partnership of Streptococcus mutans bacteria and Candida albicans fungus, leading to increased cavities and severe tooth decay. The fungus was previously thought to be harmless but now appears to play a crucial role in the development of this painful condition.
A new study aims to identify the causes of oral health problems in HIV-positive patients, including tooth decay, gum disease, and yeast infections. The researchers are analyzing samples from 440 patients to compare their microbiota with uninfected individuals.
Research finds that common honeybee diseases can infect and spread to wild bumblebees, potentially causing decline. The study suggests that managing honeybees is crucial for supporting wild bee populations and reducing the impact of emerging diseases.
Researchers are testing probiotic pessaries containing 'good' bacteria against Candida infections. The study shows that a combination of two strains can kill or restrict growth of yeast cells, offering a viable alternative to precious antimicrobial drugs.
Researchers discovered tamoxifen, a breast cancer treatment, also kills Cryptococcus, a fungus causing deadly brain infections. The combination of tamoxifen and fluconazole was synergistic, showing improved activity against the fungus. This finding offers a new approach to treating cryptococcal meningitis.
Researchers discovered tamoxifen can kill Cryptococcus germ by interfering with a protein, offering potential new treatment for deadly brain infection. Additional animal experiments are needed to develop new anti-cryptococcal drugs based on the findings.
Researchers at LA BioMed have reported promising results with the investigational antifungal isavuconazole in reducing mucormycosis infections. Isavuconazole was found to be as effective as high-dose liposomal amphotericin B, a current treatment option, in disease models.
The University of Liverpool has launched an Open Innovation Hub for Antimicrobial Surfaces to design and develop new anti-infective materials. The hub aims to combat the spread of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections in various sectors, including healthcare and food processing.
Researchers discovered that fruit flies' biochemical pathway to fight fungal infections is compromised after space flight, while bacterial infection defense remains intact. The study offers a promising lead in understanding the impact of microgravity on human immune systems, paving the way for future research with astronauts.
Two Canadian teens, Adamo Young and Kiri Daust, published their research on wasps and leaf disease, revealing an efficient killer of an agricultural pest and a little-known fungus hurting Highbush Cranberries. Their studies help farmers combat the moth pest without pesticides.
Researchers at IBN and IBM have developed a novel biocompatible material from recycled PET that effectively kills drug-resistant fungi and their biofilms. The material targets fungal cells without harming surrounding healthy cells, displaying great potential as an antifungal agent.
New research reveals a growing concern over tree pests and diseases, which can lead to widespread death of trees and disrupt ecosystem services. The review highlights the need for new approaches to pest management that take into account multiple services and stakeholders.
Infectious disease specialist Dr. Josѐ A. Vazquez emphasizes the need for improved education on antibiotic use to combat multidrug-resistant organisms. The overuse of antibiotics in hospitals and communities contributes to resistance, which can spread through casual encounters.
A dysfunctional chemokine receptor, CXCR1, plays a crucial role in Candida infection progression. Mice lacking this receptor are prone to kidney failure due to Candida-induced injury. Additionally, patients with a mutation in the CXCR1 gene are at higher risk of developing candidiasis.
Researchers found that the fungus can survive on various carbon sources and grow in a wide pH range, making it hard to stop its spread. It can also tolerate sulfur compounds and calcium, but struggles to absorb water from dry surfaces.
Researchers have found a new compound that targets the fungus without harming humans, offering hope for safer treatment options for life-threatening fungal lung infections. The discovery has potential to combat histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis, which can cause flu-like symptoms and severe complications.
A skin infection linked to aquariums is frequently under-diagnosed due to its delayed appearance. Researchers say patients often fail to remember the source of exposure, leading to delayed treatment and ineffective use of antifungal agents.
Research in Missouri ponds suggests that chytrid fungus may also infect invertebrates like insects, providing a new clue to its ecology and transmission. The study found that ponds with chytrid were more similar in certain measures, indicating alternative hosts or reservoirs for the fungus.
A Kansas State University microbiologist has discovered a breakthrough medicinal compound that treats Candida albicans, a common human fungal pathogen. The nontoxic gymnemic acid compound blocks the virulence properties of the fungus, making it more treatable and reducing its risk to patients.
Researchers discovered unisexual reproduction in Cryptococcus neoformans, introducing genetic diversity and potentially driving disease outbreaks. Aneuploidy, a genetic change, led to beneficial, neutral, or detrimental changes in offspring fitness, including drug resistance and virulence.
A study found that emerging lethal fungus infection can easily pass its deadly genes to closely related fungal strains but less readily to distantly related ones. This understanding will help predict the spread of outbreaks and inform surveillance efforts.
A team of researchers discovered a chemical compound called filastatin that prevents fungal cells from adhering to surfaces, which is the first step of fungal infections. The compound has shown significant protective effects without toxicity to human tissues.
Researchers found that injected methamphetamine significantly enhanced colonization of the lungs by Cryptococcus neoformans and accelerated progression of the disease. The fungus can cause a deadly brain infection when it crosses the blood-brain barrier, which is more susceptible due to drug-induced changes in the blood-brain barrier.
A massive fungal meningitis outbreak linked to contaminated steroid injections has been reported in the US, with over 13,000 people affected. Researchers found that a dark-colored environmental mold, Exserohilum rostratum, infects humans mainly through cerebrospinal fluid migration.
A collaborative EU-funded project aims to discover and develop novel antifungal drugs to combat drug-resistant fungal infections, which kill two million people annually. The NOFUN project brings together partners to accelerate development of broad-spectrum antifungal agents with new modes of action.
Scientists have developed a palm-sized microarray platform that can grow up to 1,200 individual cultures of fungi or bacteria. This technology has the potential to accelerate drug discovery for treating various types of infections.
Seeds passed through small-billed Elaenia birds emerged with reduced fungal load and odor that attracts ants, increasing survival rates. The study found a prime example of the benefits of seed dispersal mutualism between plants and animals.
Frank Leo van de Veerdonk has received a 2013 ICAAC Young Investigator Award for his groundbreaking research on fungal immunology. He discovered that mutations in STAT1 are responsible for autosomal dominant chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, a major breakthrough in diagnosing immunodeficiencies with fungal infections.
A study of contaminated steroid injections found that even asymptomatic patients can have fungal infections. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect infection, especially in those who received highly contaminated injections.