Articles tagged with Fungi
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
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Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers have established that Candida albicans fungus makes melanoma more aggressive by activating signaling pathways and creating conditions for malignant cells to acquire oxygen and energy. The study's findings suggest potential new avenues for cancer treatment using antifungal therapies.
Fungi have evolved unique strategies to digest charcoal and other pollutants, including gene duplication and horizontal gene transfer. These discoveries could lead to new methods for cleaning up contaminated environments.
A new study using AI-powered BioBERT model accurately identifies fungal lifestyles, switching between helpful partner for plants to aggressive decomposers. The tool has nearly 90% accuracy and can scan thousands of papers in minutes, flagging species that may switch roles.
Researchers found viable spores of mycotoxigenic fungi, DNA fragments, and traces of toxins remained after gamma irradiation, highlighting the need for stricter testing and better safeguards in the cannabis industry. This is particularly concerning for immunocompromised individuals who may be at higher risk.
A large-scale population genomic study has shed new light on the evolutionary history of the button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus), one of the most widely cultivated edible fungi in the world. Climate dynamics and a key gene for adaptive evolution and domestication jointly shaped the mushroom's diversity.
Researchers discovered a previously unknown interplay between wheat's resistance genes and fungal disease factors. The study found that powdery mildew fungus overcomes resistance by modifying recognized effectors, but a new approach could slow down its development by combining targeted resistance genes.
Candida auris is a highly virulent fungus spreading globally, affecting 6.5 million people annually with high mortality rates. New review highlights strategies for combating its spread, including vaccination and treatment, as well as improving diagnostics and surveillance mechanisms.
Research suggests soil microbial communities are a top predictor of childhood allergic disease rates, with certain assemblages appearing linked to better health outcomes. The study found that specific soil microbes promote health, while others negatively impact disease prevalence.
A study by University of Zurich researchers has shed light on the mechanisms that maintain homeostasis with mucosal fungi. The team discovered that the fungus Candida albicans uses a toxin called candidalysin to survive in the mouth, and that interleukin 17-mediated immunity prevents it from growing out of control.
A team of researchers from Yokohama National University has discovered a previously unknown species of marine fungus that can kill harmful, bloom-forming algae. The new species, Algophthora mediterranea, was found to be a destructive parasite in a species of algae known to cause toxic blooms with adverse health effects on humans.
A new study reveals that the genus Escovopsis emerged 56.9 million years ago but didn't start associating with leafcutter ants until 38 million years ago, suggesting a complex evolutionary history. The fungus's adaptations to its ant hosts likely contributed to its success as a symbiont.
Research highlights the connection between fungi and cancer, revealing that fungal microbiome can promote tumour progression and activate immunosuppressive pathways. Modulating the fungal microbiome may enhance antitumour immunity, with preliminary validation from preclinical and clinical trials.
A new paper outlines a global coalition dedicated to conserving microbial biodiversity, which accounts for 99% of life on Earth. The Microbial Conservation Specialist Group will develop Red List-compatible metrics, pilot restoration projects, and promote public awareness to ensure microbes are recognized as essential to planetary health.
The Applied Microbiology International (AMI) society has issued a warning about the threat of antimicrobial resistance in viruses and other pathogens. AMI is urging policymakers to strengthen the revised Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, including all types of pathogenic organisms.
Researchers used CRISPR to increase fungal production efficiency and cut environmental impact by 61% without adding foreign DNA. The genetically tweaked fungus tastes like meat and is easier to digest than its naturally occurring counterpart.
A study found that fungal oxalic acid (OA) regulates the extracellular domain (ECD) of CERK1 through site-specific deamidation, impairing chitin-triggered plant immunity. This mechanism enables fungal pathogens to suppress host defenses.
Researchers found that fungal species from warmer sites in Baltimore had lighter pigmentation and greater heat resistance compared to cooler sites. This study suggests that urban fungi may be adapting to higher temperatures, potentially leading to new disease-causing pathogens like Candida auris.
The increasing use of unregulated psilocybin mushrooms poses a pressing need for public education, potency testing, and age-specific risk assessment. Existing clinical data are insufficient to guide harm reduction or policy, highlighting the need for real-world research on psilocybin use.
Researchers from Ohio State University have developed shiitake-based devices that can act as organic memristors, a type of data processor. These devices demonstrated similar reproducible memory effects to semiconductor-based chips and showed potential for creating low-cost, environmentally friendly brain-inspired computing components.
An international team has discovered 30 novel fungal lineages using eDNA long-read sequencing techniques, shedding light on the unknown diversity of eukaryotic organisms. The researchers developed innovative taxonomic approaches to describe and communicate these unseen microeukaryotes.
Researchers discovered that stinkbug females possess a novel symbiotic organ on their hindlegs, which nurtures specific fungi that provide physical defense against wasp parasitism. The fungus-covered eggs exhibit lower parasitism rates, highlighting an impressive example of evolutionary adaptation.
A new study by Boston University researchers examines the impact of urban environmental stressors on tree growth and ecosystem services. The study found that urbanization disrupts the tree microbiome, leading to a loss of symbiotic relationships and an accumulation of pathogens, which can have negative effects on human well-being.
New research reveals fungi's deep timeline, dating back 1.4-0.9 billion years, which influenced ancient terrestrial ecosystems and shaped the evolution of life on land. The study uses rare genetic 'gene-swap' clues to overcome the fungal fossil record gap.
Researchers have found a fungus, Marquandomyces marquandii, that can grow into hydrogels with unique structural properties, such as high water absorption and elasticity. These properties make it a potential candidate for biomedical uses like tissue regeneration and flexible wearable devices.
A study on Aspergillus oryzae found that increased cell volume and nuclear number contribute to its high enzyme production capacity. The fungus's hyphae thicken, resulting in a tenfold increase in cell volume, while the number of nuclei per hyphal cell also rises tenfold.
Researchers Prof David Julian McClements and Prof David L. Kaplan propose hybrid foods as a solution to reduce industrial animal use's carbon footprint and boost health. The authors emphasize the need for collaboration to optimize protein combinations balancing nutrition, taste, sustainability, and affordability.
A study has identified a novel photomorphogenetic factor BcAMT1 that regulates light-dependent development in Botrytis cinerea. The findings suggest that BcAMT1 plays a crucial role in mediating the effects of light on fungal morphogenesis.
Researchers found 270 genera of fungi in Beijing subway stations, with dominant species varying by season and station type. The study highlights the importance of considering fungi in public health initiatives and air quality management.
Researchers discover two distinct methods for producing psilocybin in mushrooms, one in Psilocybe species and another in fiber cap mushrooms. The finding sheds light on convergent evolution and the unique biochemical strategies employed by fungi to produce the same molecule.
Researchers identified 27 species of bacteria and fungi that collectively increase the risk of pancreatic cancer by 3.5 times. The study analyzed saliva samples from 122,000 healthy individuals and found that boosting the mouth's microbiome may protect against cancer.
Researchers discovered that a specific gene disruption led to the change in color, allowing the fungus to conserve energy. This process, called relaxed selection, is common among organisms adapting to dark conditions, influencing food security and health.
Researchers found 148 fungi-associated genetic variants linked to 9 fungal taxa and associated with chronic disease risk. The study sheds light on the human genetic determinants of the mycobiome, a previously understudied group of gut microorganisms.
Researchers have successfully increased the susceptibility of Candida albicans to drug treatment through light-activated therapy. Combining photodynamic inactivation with antifungal amphotericin B reduced fungal growth by up to 87.5% and demonstrated potential as an alternative to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers found that MtABCB1 plays a crucial role in promoting arbuscule development during AM symbiosis. The protein's auxin efflux activity is essential for modulating auxin distribution and homeostasis within symbiotic cells.
A new study found that global climate conditions affect the spore traits of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, influencing their survival, spread, and interaction with plants. The research provides insights into the environmental adaptations of microorganisms, which could guide soil restoration and food production.
Researchers revived historical fungal strains to understand the evolution of fungicide resistance and environmental adaptation in modern agriculture. The study provides critical insights into plant disease dynamics, paving the way for more sustainable agricultural strategies.
Scientists have released high-resolution maps revealing 90% of mycorrhizal fungal biodiversity hotspots outside protected areas, posing a threat to carbon drawdown and ecosystem resilience. The research highlights the critical role of mycorrhizal fungi in regulating Earth's climate and ecosystems.
Researchers found that cultivating bread wheat with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizophagus irregularis increases grain size and micronutrient levels, especially phosphorus and zinc. This process enhances the bioavailability of these essential nutrients in bread wheat.
The study reveals diverse microbial profiles within different tumor types, with notable diversity in species composition and spatial localization. Functional effects of intratumoral microbiota on the tumor microenvironment range from immunostimulatory to protumor.
A new Korea University study provides the first species-specific health risk estimates for indoor airborne microbes based on animal toxicity data. The research determines that exposure to fungi may be unsafe even at levels below current guidelines, while bacteria are within existing regulatory limits.
Researchers from Michigan State University have discovered how Candida auris uniquely reconstructs its cell wall to survive antifungal treatments. The findings show that C. auris increases production of β-1,6-glucan to preserve structural integrity, providing a roadmap for designing more effective therapies.
Research reveals rainfall dramatically affects planktonic fungal communities in urban lakes, reducing species richness and evenness. Parasitic fungi emerge as key biomarkers, with changes in their abundance and distribution observed following precipitation.
Research led by the University of Michigan finds fungal spore seasons advancing three weeks earlier in the US over two decades due to climate change. The study reveals significant implications for both ecosystem processes and human health.
A new study reveals that natural selection is driving the evolution of resistance in ash trees against the fungal disease ash dieback. The research found that younger generation ash trees exhibit greater resistance than their predecessors, offering hope for the survival of ash trees.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have turned a deadly fungus into a potent cancer-fighting compound. The new compound, called asperigimycins, has shown promising results against leukemia cells, rivaling FDA-approved drugs.
A new study suggests that monitoring airborne fungal spore levels can predict short-term outbreaks of flu and COVID-19 infections. High levels of fungal spores were strongly linked to increases in flu and COVID-19 cases, particularly in the fall season.
Researchers discovered that fungal enzymes cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) and lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (LPMO) can efficiently degrade plant biomass, allowing for the extraction of valuable components. This breakthrough suggests a promising method for using diverse, non-edible plant biomass in biotechnology applications.
Scientists at the Stowers Institute and University of Georgia discover how Cryptococcus neoformans thrives, identifying over 300 potential targets for novel antifungal drugs. The study provides an atlas for developing new therapies to combat this lethal fungus.
Chinese researchers found well-preserved fossil fungal hyphae in a Jurassic petrified wood sample, providing the earliest evidence for this fungal group. The discovery suggests that blue-stain fungi originated during the Late Paleozoic or early Mesozoic era.
A new article published in Crop Science journal provides comprehensive information on the disease's pathology, progression, and management of large patch, a fungal disease that can compromise turfgrass health. Effective management strategies include proper mowing, fertilizing, and watering practices.
A recent study found that Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) can detect pathogens in 86% of cases, outperforming conventional microbiological tests which identified pathogens in only 67% of cases. mNGS guides treatment decisions and improves patient outcomes by detecting rare/atypical pathogens.
A study by University of Fukui researchers reveals that two adjacent gene pairs in Neurospora crassa regulate antiviral response and symptom induction via RNA editing. The findings indicate that the modification of master transcription factor genes is crucial for controlling fungal antiviral responses.
Empa researchers have developed a bio-based, biodegradable material from fungal mycelium that avoids chemical processing. The material has versatile functional properties, including emulsification capabilities, and is suitable for various applications. Its biodegradability makes it an attractive alternative to traditional materials.
The latest focus issue of Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions explores the molecular, cellular, and genomic details of cereal crop diseases, highlighting key research on plant-pathogen interactions. Groundbreaking work has advanced the field, offering new insights into disease resistance and management strategies.
Researchers have discovered that silver nanoparticles produced by the fungus Trichoderma reesei can inhibit the infection of SARS-CoV-2 in hamster lungs, reducing inflammation and viral load. The study also suggests that these nanoparticles could be used to prevent and treat other viral diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, shingles, and influenza.
Researchers have developed a building material that uses fungal mycelium and bacteria cells, which can self-repair for at least a month. This innovation has the potential to replace conventional building materials with high carbon footprints like cement, reducing emissions and promoting sustainability.
The new season of The Last of Us explores the real-life characteristics of cordyceps, including its airborne spore method of infection. Researchers like Dr. Jim Kronstad highlight the warming climate as a potential contributor to the spread of harmful fungi.
Researchers have demonstrated that certain lichen species can survive Mars-like conditions, including ionizing radiation and harsh temperatures. The study suggests that lichens could potentially survive on Mars despite high doses of X-ray radiation.
A recent study published in MDPI reveals that plants, fungi, bacteria, protists, and even some viruses employ venom-like mechanisms to solve critical problems. The research expands our understanding of venom beyond animal organisms, highlighting its broader evolutionary significance.
Researchers discovered that fungi construct a lace-like mycelial network that moves carbon outward from plant roots in a wave-like formation. The team used advanced robotics to measure traffic flows and resource trading in the fungal road system, shedding light on how these networks regulate ecosystem function.