Articles tagged with Fungi
Researchers identify enzymes from fungi like Thielavia terrestris and Muceliophthora thermophila, which thrive at high temperatures, to accelerate biomass breakdown and improve biofuel production. The discoveries have great promise for significant improvements over existing systems.
The XVIII International Botanical Congress approved sweeping changes to the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants, allowing e-publication and using Latin or English descriptions. These changes will take effect on January 1, 2012, and are being disseminated in five languages through leading academic journals.
The International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi and plants is set to undergo significant changes allowing scientists to publish new species discoveries entirely online. This shift aims to increase the efficiency and accessibility of scientific research in the digital age.
A team of Chinese researchers analyzed 4793 publications to identify potential host species for the Tibetan medicinal fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis. The study found 57 recognizable potential hosts, 8 indeterminate hosts, and 26 non-hosts, providing basic information for managing insect resources and conserving the fungus.
Fungi such as Candida albicans are resisting the latest antifungal drugs due to their ability to alter cell wall structure. The use of echinocandins, which target beta-glucan enzyme, is being re-evaluated in light of this resistance.
Scientists at Oregon State University have discovered a freshwater species of zooplankton, Daphnia magna, that can eat the B. dendrobatidis fungus devastating amphibian populations worldwide. The finding offers a promising biological control method to combat this deadly disease.
A new survey of the deadly fungus chytridiomycosis in Asia has found very low levels of infection among amphibians, with only 2.35% prevalence across 15 countries. However, researchers warn that this could be a sign of emerging disease or other factors preventing invasion.
Whitehead Institute researchers uncover a novel association between dectin-1 and galectin-3 in macrophages, enabling the immune system to discriminate between non-pathogenic and pathogenic fungi. This discovery may lead to the development of more effective antifungal drugs.
The International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants will allow electronic publication of new taxa names, making the process more efficient and rapidly available for all.
A University of Vermont scientist has developed a bio-pesticide using an insect-killing fungus and sweet whey to reduce the growth rate of hemlock woolly adelgid. The treatment showed promising results in trials, with a 50% reduction in pest population in infested trees.
The new journal MycoKeys offers a linked environment for publishing and disseminating information on fungi and lichens. It provides mandatory registration of new taxa in MycoBank and automated cross-linking with major biodiversity platforms.
A subset of fungus-farming ambrosia beetles is in the early stages of a global epidemic threatening economically important tree species. The beetles kill trees by triggering a strong immune response from the tree's own system, causing it to die of thirst.
Researchers discovered that colonizing rice plants with fungal spores from naturally salt-tolerant plants enhances their ability to withstand cold, salt, and drought. This emerging strategy, called symbiogenics, could help mitigate climate change impacts on global food security.
Researchers at Technical University of Munich (TUM) have identified two proteins in barley that powdery mildew takes advantage of during its attack. The RACB protein, a molecular switch, supports the fungus by increasing plant cell surface area, while MAGAP1 prevents this effect and limits the fungus's entry into plant cells.
A recent study on leaf-cutting ants has sequenced their genome, revealing key adaptations behind their unique social behavior and fungus farming lifestyle. The research found that specific genes are involved in mating system adaptations and symbiotic food processing with the fungus.
Researchers from the University of Zurich propose using bacteria and fungicides to fight the chytrid fungus, a major killer of amphibians worldwide. The study suggests two promising methods: using skin-borne bacteria to block the fungus or treating infected frogs with fungicides.
A new study reveals that prolonged heavy snowfall in the Arctic can trigger rapid growth of killer fungi, devastating plant life and disrupting local food chains. This unexpected finding highlights unforeseen climate change effects on vegetation and ecosystems.
Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a fungus-based process that improves the economics of ethanol production by producing high-quality animal feed and cleaning water for recycling. The MycoMeal process has the potential to save US ethanol producers up to $800 million per year in energy costs.
Researchers at the USDA's Agricultural Research Service have identified several blueberry cultivars with high resistance to mummy berry disease, caused by the fungus Monilinia vaccinii-corymbosi. These cultivars, including 'Brunswick' and 'Bluejay,' can withstand both stages of the fungal infection.
A new Q-PCR assay technique enables precise quantification of fungal DNA in soybean leaf tissue to assess resistance to soybean rust. This method improves upon traditional visual assessments, allowing for more accurate mapping of quantitative resistance genes.
Researchers analyzed genome sequences of two Aspergillus niger strains to improve biofuel production. They found unique genes in each strain that contribute to their characteristics, including high citric acid yields and efficient enzyme production.
Scientists have found a hitherto unknown type of fungi, cryptomycota, which has significantly expanded our knowledge of fungal diversity. The discovery was made possible by analyzing DNA samples taken from the University of Exeter's pond, revealing a previously hidden branch in the fungal tree of life.
Researchers have sequenced the genomes of two rust fungi that infect poplar trees, a promising bioenergy feedstock. The study reveals the characteristics of these pathogens and their methods of attacking host plants, providing key findings for developing disease control strategies.
Researchers are testing a fungal pathogen and releasing non-stinging wasps to control the emerald ash borer, which has devastated forests and tree-lined neighborhoods. The fungus, Beauveria bassiana, kills beetles when applied to infested trees before wasps are released.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a crucial component in the signaling pathway that regulates phytoalexin production, allowing plants to defend against fungal diseases. The discovery highlights the importance of phytoalexins as natural defense mechanisms for plants.
Storing fruits and vegetables in ozone-enriched environments significantly reduces microbial spoilage, with up to 95% disease prevention after 8 days. Ozone treatment is a viable alternative to pesticides, leaving no residues on foods.
Scientists and volunteers are working together to track the spread of a deadly amphibian fungus across the UK. The survey aims to identify the most at-risk species and develop strategies for conservation.
A study found that contaminated fungi attached to ryegrass roots help plants absorb toxic contaminants like acenaphthene. This process affects not only plant health but also poses risks to human health through environmental exposure.
A recent census led by Robert Lücking documented 432 different lichens within one square kilometer of Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, including 18 never before identified and nearly 100 previously not known from North America. The discovery highlights the remarkable biodiversity of lichens in this tropical environment.
The FASEB MARC Program has announced the travel award recipients for the 2011 GSA 26th Fungal Genetics meeting. Three awards totaling $4,950 were conferred to underrepresented minority students and scientists. The program aims to increase diversity in biomedical research.
Researchers at Concordia University have developed a novel technique for identifying anonymous email authors with high accuracy. By analyzing unique patterns in a suspect's emails, they can create a 'write-print' that is like a fingerprint, allowing investigators to determine the author's gender, nationality, and education level.
Four new species of fungus have been discovered in the Brazilian rainforest, infecting ants and manipulating their behavior to secure prime locations for spore dispersal. The study sheds light on the complex interactions between parasites and fragmented habitats, providing tools for further research into disease dynamics.
A new study by NIH-funded researchers has developed genetically modified fungi that can kill malaria-causing parasites in mosquitoes, significantly reducing parasite development. The transgenic fungi block the development of malaria parasites in mosquitoes, preventing transmission to humans.
A University of Maryland-led team has developed a transgenic fungal approach that targets malaria-causing sporozoites, reducing disease transmission by at least five-fold. The method uses a fungus naturally attacking mosquitoes and inserts genes for human anti-malarial antibodies or scorpion toxins.
Children living on farms are significantly less likely to develop asthma than others due to exposure to a greater variety of microorganisms. The physiological mechanisms underlying this effect remain unclear, but researchers have identified several species that may be responsible for the reduction in asthma risk.
Researchers found that Texas leafcutter ants can maintain winter gardens thanks to cold-tolerant fungus crops, but the fungus limits their ability to spread farther north. The ant's symbiotic relationship with the fungus constrains their ecological niches.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology discovered a unique chemical signaling system in tropical seaweed that may provide new pharmaceutical compounds for treating malaria. The team found concentrated antifungal molecules at specific locations on the seaweed surfaces, which could be used to develop effective treatments.
A study found that Texas leaf-cutter ants use a fungus as an external digestive system to survive the cold, and the fungus's resistance is based on genetic differences. The ants' ability to manage fungal crops prevents them from spreading farther north than their current range.
A collaborative effort by 102 lichenologists from 37 countries reveals 100 new species of lichens, including those found in arctic tundra and tropical rain forests. The study highlights the vast unexplored diversity of fungal life on Earth.
A mathematical model suggests culling will not control the spread of white-nose syndrome, a deadly fungus threatening North American hibernating bats. The fungal pathogen occurs in caves and mines where bats live, making contact rates high among colonial bats.
A recent study on the leafcutter ant genome has shed light on its unique fungus-farming abilities, revealing how the insect's lifestyle has remade its genetic blueprint over time. The research provides a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between ants, fungi, and bacteria in this mutualistic relationship.
A team of researchers at Vanderbilt University has discovered a large cluster of genes that appeared to jump directly from one fungus species to another, significantly strengthening the argument for a mosaic theory of evolution. The finding was made possible by comparing the genomes of nearly 100 species of fungi.
Researchers have isolated a key hormone that allows the Phytophthora fungi to reproduce and developed a synthetic version of this hormone. This breakthrough could lead to an effective method to combat this ancient scourge, which has caused devastating potato crop failures and food shortages globally.
The American Thoracic Society has released a new statement on the treatment of fungal infections in adult pulmonary and critical care patients, taking into account new medications and treatment approaches. The guidelines cover traditional antifungal agents, newer agents, and rare and emerging fungi.
A study investigated the in vitro development of decay caused by 12 major root-rot and trunk-rot fungi in nine ornamental tree species. Strains like Armillaria mellea and Ganoderma lucidum exhibited high decay potential, with gymnosperm wood generally more resistant than angiosperm wood.
A recent study published in HortScience found that Bounce fabric softener sheets can repel adult gnats, with a mean proportion of fungus gnat adults collected being significantly lower in sample compartments containing dryer sheets. The study attributed the effect to volatile compounds such as linalool and beta-citronellol.
Scientists have identified new genes in smut fungi that play a crucial role in infecting maize plants. The study reveals an evolutionary arms race between the plant and parasite, with each side developing new molecules to outsmart the other.
Researchers at University of Missouri identify valuable genes in Norton grape for resistance to powdery mildew, a fungal pathogen affecting winemaking grapes worldwide. The goal is to transfer these traits into other grapes to decrease fungicide use and increase global production.
Scientists search for chemical solutions to combat the fungus without harming bats, highlighting their ecological importance.
Researchers have isolated a key hormone, alpha-1, that allows Phytophthora to reproduce, leading to extensive damage to food crops and ornamental plants. The synthesis of a synthetic version of the hormone offers a promising basis for developing an effective method to control the fungus.
Research in Tanzania found a significant association between fumonisin exposure and stunting/underweight in infants, highlighting the need for food screening. The WHO maximum tolerable daily intake is often exceeded, especially with maize-based complementary foods.
Researchers found that tobacco bio-oil, produced through pyrolysis, is effective against various insect pests and microorganisms. The oil killed all tested Colorado potato beetles and blocked growth of bacteria and fungi.
Researchers have identified a natural substance in a fungus that infects a common weed, showing potential as the first stinkbug repellent. The substance repelled up to 90% of stinkbugs and was almost twice as effective as naphthalene, a gold-standard for measuring insect repellents.
A Texas Tech University biologist has identified a possible cause of the sudden death of bee colonies across North America: a combination of an insect virus and a fungus. The researchers' study published in PLOS ONE found an association between the two pathogens and high mortality rates among bees.
A new study reveals that fungal spores travel farther by forming a plume that reduces drag to nearly zero, creating a wind that carries them up to 100 millimeters. By hydrodynamic cooperation, thousands of spores are ejected simultaneously, reaching speeds of 60 centimeters per second and covering distances of over a centimeter.
Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio identified Ume6 as a key transcriptional regulator involved in Candida albicans' hyphal filament-development mechanism. This finding may lead to targets for antifungal therapies, which could help combat hospital-acquired infections caused by this fungus.
A fungus-based biological control agent, Beauveria bassiana, is enhanced with a sunscreen made from soybean oil and ferulic acid to protect its spores from sunlight. The 'soyscreen' successfully protects the spores for 28 weeks, improving its effectiveness in wiping out insect pests.
Fungal growth on film reels can lead to degradation of historic film and pose a risk to archivists. Common mold species Aspergillus and Penicillium are released into the air, exceeding safe exposure levels.
Fungus-farming ants use multiple antibiotics produced by actinomycete bacteria to control unwanted fungi and bacteria in their cultures. This discovery has identified a new antibiotic with potential medical applications, highlighting the importance of studying insect agriculture.
A recent study has discovered that even brief periods of light exposure can significantly impact a fungus's biological functions, including reproduction, pigmentation, DNA repair, and stress response. The research also found that specific metabolic pathways can be directly activated by light in this fungus.