Stopping Candida in its tracks
Researchers discover fungi-specific signalling molecule controlling Candida's growth, offering hope for clinical treatments
Fungal Infections
Articles tagged with Fungal Infections
Dual internal clocks keep plant defenses on schedule
A Duke University study shows that two biological clocks work together to help plants deal with fungal infections, while maintaining an already-packed daily schedule of activities. The researchers identified a gene called NPR1 that links the two clocks, allowing them to work together and optimize plant defenses.
Snake fungal disease parallels white-nose syndrome in bats
Researchers find striking similarities between snake fungal disease and white-nose syndrome in bats, both persisting across habitats and infecting multiple species. The snake fungus, Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, is highly virulent and can spread through pet trade and animal release.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFungal Ecology·DateJun 18, 2015
UMass Amherst biochemist named a Burroughs Wellcome Fund Investigator
Li-Jun Ma's research focuses on deciphering the mechanisms underlying fungal pathogenesis and developing novel antifungal therapies. Her work aims to address the growing threat of opportunistic fungal infections, which claim over 1.5 million lives each year.
Boosting gut bacteria defense system may lead to better treatments for bloodstream infections
A study published in Nature Medicine found that enhancing a specific immune response can kill infection-causing fungi, such as Candida albicans, which causes life-threatening bloodstream infections. The researchers discovered that stimulating the transcription factor HIF-1α with L-mimosine led to increased production of natural antibio...
New anti-microbial compounds evade resistance with less toxicity
Researchers have developed new anti-microbial compounds that specifically target fungal infections without harming human cells. These derivatives of the antifungal drug amphotericin B are highly effective in killing invasive yeast infections while showing minimal toxicity to humans.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 1, 2015
Antifungal compounds that evade resistance reported in Nature Chemistry Biology
Scientists have discovered new antifungal compounds that selectively kill pathogens without evoking drug resistance. These novel compounds were designed to act as molecular sponges for ergosterol, found exclusively on fungi surfaces, and exhibit undetectable binding to human cells.
Nicotinoid and fungal disease team up to break down termites' tough defenses
Researchers found that a sublethal dose of imidacloprid significantly weakens termites' ability to fight off fungal diseases by knocking out key microbes in the termite gut and suppressing social hygiene habits. This combination wiped out laboratory colonies in just seven days.
Engineering bacteria to design vaccines
The EU-funded MycoSynVac project combines gene engineering and biotechnology to design a novel veterinary vaccine chassis based on Mycoplasma pneumoniae. This chassis will be used to create specific vaccines against two highly detrimental pathogens, as well as for cell therapy and infectious lung disease treatment.
An unexpected role for calcium in controlling inflammation during chronic lung infection
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center identified a crucial role for calcium signaling in controlling inflammation during chronic lung infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Calcium channels play a key role in shutting down the immune response and preventing injurious inflammation.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 4, 2015
Study IDs collagen-damaging protein in White Nose syndrome
Scientists have discovered a protease enzyme secreted by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans that damages collagen in bats. A protease inhibitor showed a 77% reduction in collagen damage after 54 hours, offering hope for treating White Nose syndrome.
Insight into how we protect ourselves from certain bacteria and fungi
Researchers discovered a key gene that shields us from fungal and bacterial infections, and found it affects two crucial cell types involved in our immune response. STAT3 helps regulate the development and function of natural killer T and mucosal-associated invariant T cells, which play a vital role in fighting off pathogens.
How a deadly fungus evades the immune system
A recent study published in Nature Communications has found that a little bit of sugar on the surface of fungal cells triggers the death of immune cells that would otherwise kill the fungus. This discovery could lead to a new therapeutic strategy for treating Candida albicans, one of the most common causes of bloodstream infections.
Leaf odor attracts Drosophila suzukii
Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology identified a leaf odor, beta-cyclocitral, that specifically attracts Drosophila suzukii, a devastating fruit crop pest. This specialization allows the fly to pinpoint ripe fruits by tracking the distinct leaf odor.
CWRU dental researcher demonstrates how T cells cause inflammation during infections
Pushpa Pandiyan's research reveals that uncontrolled Th17 cells can lead to inflammation and health issues. Her study uses immunodeficient mice to model the process, which could lead to new treatments for infections like Candida albicans.
Study to begin on developing diagnostics for deadly mold infection
A new grant will fund research to develop a rapid diagnosis for mucormycosis, a rare fungal infection that kills more than half of its victims. The project aims to create a quick and accurate test to help physicians treat the infection promptly.
Friendly fungi -- how they could help barley growers feed the world without chemicals
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered that naturally occurring plant-friendly fungi can prevent crop-ravishing diseases from spreading and aid plant survival in testing environmental conditions. These 'symbiotic' relationships between barley and the fungi increase plant survival by up to six times.
Drug combinations a good approach for infectious fungus, research shows
Researchers at the University of Toronto found that only a few strains of Candida albicans became resistant to combination therapy, and that resistance came at a cost to the fungus. The resistant strains grew poorly in stress conditions and were vulnerable to immune cells.
Cell's recycling team helps sound alarm on pathogens
Researchers found that autophagy, a cellular recycling process, helps eliminate a molecule called A20 that blocks the immune response. By removing A20, autophagy allows for a quick release of emergency signals, boosting anti-fungal immunity.
New hope for fighting major fungal disease in durum wheat
Researchers have identified specialized cell walls in disease-resistant wheat varieties that could help produce stronger durum wheat for improved pasta production. The study found a new gene, WheatPME1, that can change the chemical structure of pectin, a key component of plant cell walls.
Pivotal data for T2Candida and T2Dx published in Clinical Infectious Diseases
A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases demonstrated the pivotal data for T2Candida and T2Dx, detecting Candida species with 91.1% sensitivity and 99.4% specificity in 3-5 hours without blood culture. This technology has the potential to reduce costs, length of stay, and mortality rates associated with Candida infections.
Malassezia yeasts -- everywhere and sometimes dangerous
Researchers discuss the role of Malassezia yeasts as pathogens, highlighting common skin diseases such as dandruff and atopic eczema. The study also explores the potential link between Malassezia and skin cancer, as well as bloodstream infections in vulnerable populations.
Could gut bacteria that help us digest beer & bread fight disease, too?
A study published in Nature suggests that gut bacteria can utilize yeast carbohydrates, potentially supporting the development of new treatments for yeast infections and autoimmune diseases. The research identified a specific bacterium, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, with the ability to degrade complex carbohydrates in yeast cell walls.
Vaccine holds hope of preventing antibiotic resistant skin infections
Researchers at LA BioMed have developed a novel vaccine, NDV-3, that can protect against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin infections. The vaccine enhances molecular and cellular immune defenses of the skin in response to MRSA and other S. aureus bacteria.
Study of deadly bat disease finds surprising seasonal pattern of infections
A new study found that the fungus responsible for white-nose syndrome, which causes bat populations to crash, can infect nearly every bat in a colony during hibernation. Bats that survive the winter can clear the infection after they become active again, but this leads to high mortality rates at the end of winter.
LSU Health New Orleans research targets deadly intra-abdominal infections
Intra-abdominal infections caused by Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus result in high mortality rates due to synergistic inflammatory responses. Researchers hope to identify targeted treatments to decrease severity and improve survival through their study.
New strategies to reduce use of plant protection products in winemaking
The FITOVID project aims to reduce fungal disease treatment in vineyards by applying less product and using new technologies for early detection. Researchers test alternative strategies, including 'zero waste' products, to boost sustainable management of pests and diseases.
Scientists seek cure for devastating witches' broom disease of the chocolate tree
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.
'Breath test' shows promise for diagnosing fungal pneumonia
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.
Divide and conquer: Novel trick helps rare pathogen infect healthy people
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.
Research paves way for new generation of fungicides
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.
Study questions accuracy of lung cancer screens in some geographic regions
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.
LA BioMed receives NIH grant to study vaccine for hospital-acquired infections
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.
New antifungal as effective as existing drugs with fewer adverse events
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.
New study charts the global invasion of crop pests
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.
Zombie ant fungi 'know' brains of their hosts
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.
Fungus deadly to AIDS patients found to grow on trees
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.
Zombie ant fungi manipulate hosts to die on the 'doorstep' of the colony
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.
Researchers identify tests to diagnose invasive aspergillosis with 100 percent accuracy
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.
Common tuberculosis vaccine can be used to prevent infection as well as disease
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.
Scientists gear up to fight deadly snake fungal disease
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.
Team studies immune response of Asian elephants infected with a human disease
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.
Recalled yogurt contained highly pathogenic mold
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.
Study reveals fungus in yogurt outbreak poses a threat to consumers
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.
Study shows restored immunity for cancer-related fungal infections
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.
SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2014
Host genetics can contribute to lung damage in severe tuberculosis
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.
Fungal infection control methods for lucky bamboo
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.
Fungal protein found to cross blood-brain barrier
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.
Marriage of convenience with a fungus
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.
Possible cause and source of Kawasaki disease found
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.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2014
Medication does not lower risk of fungal infection, death among ELBW infants
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.
Treatment for deadly yeast disease reduced to 3 days
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 ...
Scientists unlock secrets of protein produced by disease-causing fungus
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.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2014
Potent, puzzling and (now less) toxic: Team discovers how antifungal drug works
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.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 15, 2014
Immune cell 'defenders' could beat invading bacteria
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.
Nature Immunology study finds novel population of neutrophils
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.
Microorganism shows promise in inhibiting thrush
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.
Fighting for oral dominance: Good fungi keep bad ones in check in healthy mouths
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.
Bacterium and fungus team up to cause virulent tooth decay in toddlers
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.
Researchers look for culprit behind oral health problems in HIV-positive patients
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.