Articles tagged with Fungi
International researchers, led by UMass Amherst, discovered a mechanism that allows certain fungi to destroy grapevines using small compounds that reduce iron and produce hydrogen peroxide. Antioxidants and chelators can potentially interrupt this process and prevent grapevine damage.
A study reveals that over 1,400 genes in 218 insect species originated from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and plants through horizontal gene transfer. This discovery suggests that these genes contributed to beneficial traits such as mating behavior, nutrition, and adaptation to environmental changes.
A unique fungus infects common houseflies, causing them to become necrophilic and mate with infected female corpses. The longer the corpse remains dead, the more attractive it becomes to male flies, allowing the fungus to spread its spores.
A group of researchers discovered a new species of green algae, Gormaniella terricola, in Central New York State. The alga's unique chloroplast genome was found to contain DNA from fungi and bacteria, highlighting the importance of horizontal transfer.
A team led by UMass Amherst food scientist Matthew Moore has received a $750,000 grant to develop portable biosensors for detecting noroviruses and mycotoxins in foods. The technology aims to provide quick, cheap, and effective detection without lab testing.
Recent papers in ACS Environmental Au explore the impact of aerosol acidity in the southeastern U.S. and the effects of environmental films on native ecosystems. The journal also investigates electrospun nanofibrous membranes for controlling airborne viruses.
A University of Alberta research team has rewritten the biology of lichen, a textbook case of symbiosis. The study found that lichens do not use sugars produced by algae for growth, but instead store them to preserve cellular content when dry.
A recent study found that a single course of antibiotics disrupts the balance of gut bacteria and fungi in infants, leading to increased competition for space. This disruption can result in long-term adverse effects on human health, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea and chronic inflammatory diseases.
Research finds fungi and bacteria can thrive in post-megafire soils, with certain microbes increasing in abundance. These microbial 'cousins' are genetically related and share adaptive traits to respond to fire, improving prediction of their responses.
A team of scientists has identified a protein called SsPINE1 that allows the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum to overcome plant defenses. This discovery could lead to new avenues for controlling white mold stem rot pathogens and potentially even more effective, targeted breeding to make plants naturally resistant.
A new study at the University of Bath found that a key ingredient is missing from all sunscreens, leaving skin vulnerable to damage. The researchers identified iron-trapping extracts that can improve protection against UV rays and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of aging and cancer.
A new paper by an Oregon State University-led research team provides a scientific framework to shape the rollout of a program in Oregon allowing the use of psilocybin for therapeutic reasons. The research highlights the importance of Indigenous traditions and safety guidelines for using psilocybin-containing fungi.
A new study reveals that leafcutter ants employ complex strategies to maximize the growth of their fungal
A new study from UC Berkeley provides the first detailed description of the fungal biodiversity on Mo'orea, discovering over 200 species of macrofungi. The research team's findings suggest that most species were carried by easterly winds from Australia or other South Pacific islands.
A study found that apples and other fruits can host drug-resistant, pathogenic yeasts on surfaces, including Candida auris. The fungicides used to prolong shelf life may select for these resistant strains, increasing the risk of transmission.
Researchers have developed biobased materials derived from fungi that can produce sustainable faux leather, paper products, and cotton substitutes. These materials have properties comparable to traditional materials, with the added benefit of being 100% biobased and taking less time to produce.
The John Innes Centre researchers identified the role of the signaling protein CaM2, which regulates calcium channels and shapes calcium signals. This led to accelerated calcium frequency, earlier signaling with bacteria, and enhanced root nodule symbiosis in engineered legume roots.
Scientists develop first system allowing two unrelated organisms to communicate via chemical signals, with potential applications in disease treatment and cell behavior modification. The nano-translator uses silica nanoparticles to react with glucose and phleomycin, enabling bacteria and yeast to exchange messages.
Researchers used light sheet microscopy to visualize the inner structures of a living fungus, Sordaria macrospora, without damaging it. They achieved high-resolution images and 3D reconstructions using Bessel beams, which provided uniform illumination and minimized optical properties issues.
Researchers identified eight new microorganisms that cleave ether bonds in the lignin-based compound-2-phenoxyacetophenone. These discoveries could enhance our understanding of the carbon cycle and facilitate biotechnological applications for lignin commercialization.
A preclinical study by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers reveals that a specific group of fungi residing in the intestines can protect against intestinal injury and influence social behavior in mice. The findings suggest a novel signaling system connecting fungi in the gut to their host's cells, including immune cells and neurons.
A new study found that algae in common lichens can't adapt to temperature changes as fast as the Earth is warming, putting them at risk of extinction. The researchers' analysis suggests it could take hundreds of thousands or millions of years for these algae to evolve and adapt to modern climate change.
Berkeley Lab researchers are working on a two-year project to develop a roadmap for Puerto Rico to meet its 100% renewable energy mandate. The study aims to analyze pathways, power system reliability, and generation planning. Meanwhile, a new fungal strain has been discovered in a spacecraft assembly facility named after Berkeley Lab m...
A special issue in Botany journal explores relationships among plants, people, science, and medicine, promoting decolonial approaches to ethnobotanical research. The collection highlights the healing potential of plants and emphasizes Indigenous-led projects on medicinally useful plants.
A comprehensive 'vertical map' of airborne microorganisms has been created, showing that temperature is the single most important factor influencing their composition. As global temperatures rise, this could lead to significant changes in the air microbiome, affecting human health and food security.
A Japanese squirrel's feeding behavior on poisonous Amanita species has been observed, suggesting a potential mutualistic relationship. The study found that the spores of these fungi may survive being eaten and excreted by squirrels, facilitating their dispersal.
Researchers found that compost and compost-enriched soils contain high concentrations of Aspergillus fumigatus spores, which can cause serious lung infections. Handling compost exposes individuals to large numbers of aerosolized spores, highlighting the need for behavioral changes and industry action
A study published in Nature found that a type of MRSA called mecC-MRSA originated in hedgehogs over 200 years ago, long before the clinical use of antibiotics. The researchers believe that the bacteria evolved as an adaptation to living on the skin of hedgehogs with a fungus that produces its own antibiotics.
A recent study uses machine learning to rapidly discover bacterial isolates with antifungal properties, identifying promising new compounds for crop protection. The approach analyzes thousands of microbial genomes at once, allowing researchers to identify novel beneficial microbes and bypass traditional screening tactics.
Scientists at the University of Utah studied the defense mechanism of Armillaria ostoyae, a parasitic fungus that infects and kills over 600 types of woody plants. They found that the fungus's outer layer has a strong protective role, containing calcium to protect itself from chemicals and insects.
A freely available protist culture collection supports a deeper understanding of the plant microbiome, with key findings indicating that beneficial microorganisms feed on bacteria and fungi.
A complex microbial community comprising bacteria, fungi, and oomycetes is beneficial for plant growth. Inactivation of the plant innate immune system shifts this balance, making the fungal load a primary cause of disease. Bacterial partners residing in roots provide an additional layer of protection.
Scientists discovered that fungal endophytes convert chitin to chitosan, a natural plant defense activator, to evade host defense. This conversion enables the fungus to live in symbiotic association with grasses, protecting them from biotic and abiotic stresses.
Researchers have discovered that certain strains of Aspergillus can be used to degrade aflatoxins in crops, reducing the risk of food contamination. This biological control method utilizing biocontrol products is currently the most effective way to produce safe and healthy foods and feeds.
A new study explores how plants respond differently to useful and harmful microbes, revealing that accessory chromosomes from fungal strains dictate these responses. Most plant genes are expressed similarly in response to both beneficial and pathogenic fungi, but with key differences occurring just 12 hours after interaction.
Researchers have identified compounds that interfere with fungal enzymes required for fatty acid synthesis, potentially overcoming resistance to current treatments. These compounds show promise as antifungal agents, effective even against drug-resistant strains of fungi.
Researchers use edible fungus to convert fruit waste into wild strawberry aroma. The fungus produces compounds geraniol and 2-aminobenzaldehyde, contributing to the scent. The team's innovative method could provide a natural flavoring agent for foods.
The 74th APS Division of Fluid Dynamics Annual Meeting featured presentations on COVID-proofing daily life, kimchi physics, and extreme heat waves. Researchers also discussed advancements in fire-fighting trees and the science behind jellyfish engineers.
Researchers from the University of Évora discovered seven new species of Terfezia fungi in Portugal, including two previously unknown to science. The study provides valuable insights into their ecological range and potential hosts, enabling the development of truffle cultivation techniques that can positively impact local communities.
A new vaccine has shown significant protection against Valley fever in dogs, offering hope for a potential human vaccine. The study found that two doses provided high levels of protection against the fungal disease.
Hülle cells in Aspergillus fungi produce chemicals that deter predators and aid fruiting structure development. These chemicals are crucial for the fungus' protection against hungry predators.
Researchers have developed a novel process to manufacture extreme heat-resistant carbon-carbon composites, which will be tested on a U.S. Navy rocket launching with NASA this fall. Additionally, they created a technology that more realistically emulates user activities to improve cyber testbeds and prevent cyberattacks.
Researchers at TU Wien propose a new method to interpret and mine fungal genomes to predict essential genes for the production of valuable substances. The FunOrder method identifies co-evolved genes that are functionally necessary, distinguishing them from gap genes.
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agricultural products, posing severe health risks. Aptasensors utilize aptamers to specifically detect mycotoxins with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for fast and reliable detection in field settings.
A recent study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a significant role in mental health, with disruptions in beneficial microorganisms linked to depressive disorders. The researchers propose a multifaceted approach to manage depression through rebalancing and maintaining the gut microbiome using diet, probiotics, and lifestyle changes.
A study found that 95% of fungal species on Earth remain undescribed, leading to inconsistent regulations and potential health risks. The researchers tested 16 food products labeled as containing 'wild mushrooms' and discovered most consisted of cultivated species, including poisonous varieties.
A novel molecular assay has been developed to investigate how plant fungal pathogens circumvent the bioactivity of SDHIs. The study successfully validated known mechanisms of fungicide resistance in several agriculturally important fungal pathogens.
Rice University scientists have isolated a biocatalyst that controls the chirality of compounds, enabling more accurate drug synthesis. The discovery could lead to improved pharmaceutical production by providing a new tool for controlling stereochemistry.
Researchers have discovered that anaerobic fungi in herbivores' guts can produce novel antibiotic compounds, which could be used to fight disease. The fungi's ability to produce these compounds is crucial for their survival and competitiveness in the environment.
Researchers found that the symbiotic relationship between ambrosia fungi and beetles originated more than 100 million years ago, during the early Cretaceous period. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of insect farming, a strategy similar to human agriculture.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered over three dozen new ambrosia beetle species previously unknown to science. These beetles are named after female science fiction characters, such as Nyota Uhura and Katniss Everdeen, highlighting the importance of biodiversity classification.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo discovered that Fusarium verticillioides uses volatile compounds to manipulate Diatraea saccharalis moths and sugarcane plants, promoting its own dissemination. This study revolutionizes the science of red rot disease, considered the most serious threat to sugarcane.
Researchers discovered that fungus creates an underappreciated express lane for carbon, diverting up to 20% of fixed carbon from the microbial loop. This finding has implications for climate change mitigation and management of industrial and recreational settings dealing with harmful algal blooms.
A recent study confirms a plant-fungus partnership as the origin of terrestrial vegetation, with scientists using CRISPR to demonstrate lipid exchange between plants and fungi. This discovery sheds light on the first steps of life on land, validating a 40-year-old hypothesis.
Researchers demonstrated a plant-fungus alliance played a crucial role in the origin of terrestrial vegetation. By studying a bryophyte, they found a lipid transfer mechanism similar to that in vascular plants, confirming their hypothesis.
Researchers discovered that organisms like plants, fungi, and corals use gene conversion to inherit less mutated oDNA, unlike humans and animals which rely on a bottleneck process. This finding could have implications for crop plants where gene conversion can cause sterility.
Researchers have developed a new superbug-destroying coating that could be used on wound dressings and implants to prevent and treat potentially deadly bacterial and fungal infections. The material is effective against a broad range of drug-resistant bacteria and fungal cells, while leaving human cells unharmed.
Researchers discovered fungi present in both healthy and diseased lungs, with no difference in composition between individuals with COPD using or not using inhaled steroids. The unique lung environment is dominated by the fungus Candida, which can cause disease when outcompeted.
A West Virginia University biologist is developing student-led research projects to study genomics and bioinformatics using parasitic orchids. The project aims to close the STEM skills and interest gap in rural West Virginia high schools and make orchids more sustainable.
Researchers have discovered an enzyme on the surface of Aspergillus fumigatus that breaks down vital molecule NAD, affecting immune cells and weakening the immune system. The discovery may lead to new treatments for fungal infections.