Articles tagged with Fungi
Researchers reconstructed how fungus-growing ants improved their clonal crops into a robust farming system. The ant farmers lost the ability to produce vital amino acids and enzymes themselves, relying on the fungus for delivery.
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.
Researchers found high genetic diversity in thousand cankers disease fungus, making it harder to control. The fungus is native to the US and has mutated readily, leading to an explosion in its impact on host trees.
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that Thousand Cankers Disease (TCD) is a native disease that has gone rogue, threatening the health of black walnut trees. The fungus, Geosmithia morbida, and its long-time host beetle have co-evolved, creating a complex that can spread rapidly across landscapes.
By rewriting genes from a fungus to produce a specific compound of potential therapeutic importance, researchers have successfully synthesized natural drug compounds in large quantities. This innovative approach leverages the native machinery of an organism to address long-standing challenges in drug synthesis.
A deadly fungus, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans, is threatening wild populations of fire salamanders in Europe and may reach the US through international trade. Scientists are warning that the fungus could have devastating effects on North America's salamander biodiversity.
UC Riverside researchers have identified a new molecular mechanism for resistance and susceptibility to Fusarium oxysporum, a common fungus causing wilt in tomato plants. The study reveals that microRNAs play a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with specific targets contributing to resistance.
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.
Tropical Depression Fung-Wong's clouds had cloud-top temperatures near -63F/-53C over Japan's northern Ryuku Islands. The depression moved to the northeast at 11 knots (12.6 mph/20.3 kph) before becoming an extra-tropical storm.
Termite fungus farmers developed a sophisticated system of cooperation between fungi and gut bacteria to break down complex plant components. The symbiotic community optimized for efficient plant decomposition involves division of labor, with fungi handling carbohydrates and gut microbes contributing enzymes for final digestion.
Tropical Depression Fung-Wong is transitioning from a tropical to an extra-tropical storm, gaining frontal characteristics. The depression has strongest thunderstorms stretched out in a cold front-like appearance, according to NASA's Aqua satellite data.
Tropical Storm Fung-Wong moved through East China Sea, weakening to 40 knots near Shanghai, before curving towards South Korea. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects Fung-Wong to become extra-tropical by Sept 24 or 25, leading to dissipation.
A four-year National Science Foundation-funded project aims to resolve the evolutionary relationships of zygomycetes through genome sequencing, fossil analysis, and bioimaging. The project will also develop educational resources highlighting the importance of this poorly known group of fungi.
Tropical Storm Fung-Wong continues to affect the Philippines, with NASA's Aqua satellite detecting high thunderstorms and potential heavy rainfall in northern and central regions. The storm is expected to impact Taiwan, China, and Japan over the next several days.
Tropical Storm Fung-Wong developed over central Philippines with powerful thunderstorms spiraling around its southwestern quadrant. NASA predicts the storm may make landfall in Kyushu, Japan by September 23, posing a threat to the region.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have discovered a new scaffold protein called PRO40 that plays a crucial role in the production of fruiting bodies in hyphae fungi. By binding to specific kinases, PRO40 enables signal transmission and regulates MAP kinase modules.
The XVIII International Botanical Congress meeting in Melbourne made significant decisions to update the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants. The changes include electronic-only publication and use of English as an alternative to Latin in formal descriptions.
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.
A newly discovered species of ant, Mycocepurus castrator, has been found to support the theory of sympatric speciation, where a new species develops within a single colony. The research team found that the parasitic ants were genetically close to their host, but no longer reproductively compatible and had stopped reproducing together 3...
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.
Two research projects receive grants to develop tools to control Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungus causing White-Nose Syndrome. A naturally produced treatment using native soil bacteria and gene silencing technology are being tested.
Black truffles use complex genetic makeup and DNA methylation to regulate jumping genes, adapting to changes in their surroundings. This unique process sheds light on how fungi adapt to environmental changes without an active spore dispersal system.
Researchers found that some microorganisms can use epimutations, a temporary silencing of drug targets, to gain drug resistance without committing to permanent mutations. This flexible mechanism could be employed by various organisms to withstand treatment with different drugs.
Research at York University reveals that moose drool can slow down the growth of a toxic fungus in red fescue grass, reducing its toxicity. The study suggests that repeated exposure to moose saliva may lead to lower toxin levels in affected areas.
Researchers discovered a way to increase polysaccharides in barley plants, blocking fungal penetration and creating more resistant lines available for growers. Powdery mildew is a significant problem worldwide, causing up to 25% yield reductions and market value losses.
Researchers at Harvard University studied 137 varieties of cheese from 10 countries to identify three general types of microbial communities. These findings provide a model for studying microbial communities and their interactions, with potential applications in understanding various biological processes. The study also reveals the imp...
A TGen-led study found that Cryptococcus gattii likely originated in Brazil and is highly adaptive, warranting global public health vigilance. The research identified new genomic targets for diagnostic tests, therapeutic drugs, and preventative vaccines.
Charcoal rot, caused by fungi like Macrophomina phaseolina, thrives in hot and dry conditions, exacerbating crop yields. Researchers are now focusing on breeding drought-resistant soybean lines that can combat the disease.
Researchers at the University of South Florida found that frogs can develop immunity against a deadly chytrid fungus by learning to avoid it after just one exposure. This acquired resistance could aid in conservation efforts and even offer protection for other animals threatened by fungal pathogens.
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 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.
Researchers analyzed 33 fungal genomes to determine if wood-decaying fungi fall under one of two general classes. They found that some fungi, such as Botryobasidium botryosum and Jaapia argillacea, show similarities to white rot fungi but lack key enzymes, complicating the traditional categorization.
Researchers found that mice exposed to tolylfluanid developed metabolic changes similar to those of human metabolic syndrome, including increased blood sugar and body fat. The study suggests potential health risks for humans exposed to the fungicide.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a natural fungus that can kill poison ivy, offering an alternative to chemical treatments. The fungus, Colletotrichum fioriniae, is being explored as a potential biological control method for invasive plants.
A new study reveals that local-scale factors, such as terrain and temperature, explain most of the variation in wood decomposition, while climate plays a smaller role. The research suggests that termites and fungi have a more significant impact on decomposition than previously thought, which can improve climate change projections.
Researchers have analyzed fossilized feces from 1,500-year-old coprolites to determine the bacterial and fungal populations present in two extinct cultures. The study found distinct differences between the fecal communities of these cultures, providing evidence that they may have had different origins.
A team of researchers studied the genome of a Dead Sea fungus to understand its survival strategy in salty environments. The study found that the fungus needs to control cell membrane transport under tight conditions to cope with extreme salt levels.
Researchers discovered a fungus that can completely eradicate tree-of-heaven plants, including sprouts. The treatment has shown promise as a bio-control agent to combat the invasive species' rapid spread across the US.
Scientists have confirmed the presence of a new fungus variant in Alava, Spain, which may be more resistant to conventional fungicides. This discovery could lead to the emergence of more aggressive strains of Phytophthora infestans, causing further damage to potato crops.
Researchers have identified a precise biochemical key that activates immune cells called MAITs, which defend against bacterial and fungal invaders. The breakthrough has potential applications in treating inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulcers, and tuberculosis.
Researchers found that pesticides reduce earthworms' weight, affect their metabolism rate, and increase energy demand, ultimately hindering their reproduction and survival in contaminated soil. This study highlights the importance of considering the impact of pesticides on non-target organisms like earthworms.
Researchers suggest that traditional shade-growing techniques and natural fungal enemies can help control coffee rust. Abandoning these methods may exacerbate the problem, and a return to more sustainable practices could be an effective way to manage the disease.
Researchers identified a fungal surface protein that promotes invasion of host cells in mucormycosis. The loss of this protein decreases infection and virulence in Mucorales fungi.
The Norwegian Taxonomy Initiative has identified nearly 60% of the newly discovered species as insects or small terrestrial invertebrates. DNA analysis has also revealed new insights into fungal and marine species, providing a better understanding of Norway's ecosystems.
A new study published in Conservation Biology found that a deadly fungus is the primary cause of rapid frog population declines in the Andes mountains. The fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, has led to the decline or extinction of 200 frog species worldwide.
A recent study by Mark Baker and colleagues has identified nine proteins that contribute to the cherished aroma of black Périgord truffles. The researchers also discovered biomarkers of authenticity, freshness, and perfume maturation, shedding light on this culinary delicacy.
A new research coordination network is working to study eukaryotic biodiversity using high-throughput DNA sequencing technology. Researchers will focus on microscopic organisms playing vital roles in ecosystems, such as breaking down organic matter and turning over soil nutrients.
The latest issue of ZooKeys has been automatically registered in ZooBank, marking the successful deployment of an automated registration-to-publication pipeline for taxonomic names. This innovation is part of a joint EU and US National Science Foundation project to develop the Global Names Architecture.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a new way to produce novel compounds with antibiotic potential by deleting a master regulator gene in a common fungus. This finding opens up the door to studying dozens of new compounds and potentially discovering new antibiotics.
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.
A toxic factor released by a deadly frog-killing fungus disables the amphibian immune response, preventing conventional lymphocyte activation. The fungus's ability to inhibit cell growth in cancerous cells suggests potential new treatments.
Researchers found that a fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, blocks the adaptive immune response in amphibians, allowing it to survive. The study suggests that the fungus targets a conserved vulnerability shared by both amphibian and mammalian lymphocytes.
Researchers found that targeting a specific fungal component could render Candida albicans harmless, providing a potential new approach for treating deadly infections. By inhibiting the acidification of the fungal vacuole, the fungus can no longer form deadly filaments, allowing it to coexist peacefully with humans.
Researchers have closed the genetic map of the fungal kingdom by sequencing the genome of Pyronema confluens, a basal filamentous ascomycete. The study reveals key differences between this species and higher ascomycetes, shedding light on the evolution of mating type genes and light-activated processes.
Researchers have discovered that fungal sex can generate genetic diversity in organisms like Cryptococcus neoformans, enabling the creation of drug-resistant and virulent strains. This discovery sheds light on how pathogenic microbes evolve to cause diseases.
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.
Research reveals that contaminated bivalve molluscs contain toxins at higher levels than the surrounding environment, posing a risk to human health.
A new species of fungus has ravaged fire salamander populations in the Netherlands, killing over 90% of the original population. The fungus, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans, can rapidly kill fire salamanders and is thought to have originated from elsewhere in the world.
A new study reveals that global warming is causing crop pests to spread towards the North and South Poles at an alarming rate. Currently, 10-16% of global crop production is lost to pests, with losses from fungi alone amounting to enough to feed nearly nine percent of today's global population.
Researchers have identified a genetic link between HIV infection and increased susceptibility to cryptococcal disease, which can cause devastating fungal meningitis. Patients with the high-affinity Fc receptor gene are up to 20 times more likely to develop the disease, highlighting the need for a predictive test to save lives.