Articles tagged with Fungi
Scientists have engineered a fungus to produce a high-concentration antibiotic, which could treat African sleeping sickness. The breakthrough uses genetic modification to create a non-toxic variant of the antibiotic, offering a cost-effective solution to this neglected tropical disease.
A new study shows that using safe, native strains of Aspergillus flavus can be as effective, or even more effective, than commercial strains in reducing aflatoxin levels in corn crops. Native strains may perform better due to their adaptation to soil type and weather conditions.
A global-scale analysis reveals that chytrid fungus has caused dramatic population declines in over 500 amphibian species, including 90 extinctions, within the past 50 years. The study suggests that conservation efforts can help target future research to prevent extinctions.
A new study by University of Alberta biologists reveals that feather mites may be beneficial to birds, helping remove bacteria and fungi from their feathers. The researchers found that vane-dwelling feather mites feed mainly on fungi and bacteria, rather than bird feathers.
A global study found that a fungal disease has caused dramatic population declines in more than 500 amphibian species, resulting in 90 extinctions. Chytridiomycosis is present in over 60 countries and is considered one of the most damaging invasive species worldwide.
A microscopic fungus has caused a significant decline in amphibian populations, with at least 501 species affected. The chytrid fungus has led to a 93% decline in anuran species, which account for 89% of all amphibian species, and is thought to have spread from Asia to Central America via human transportation.
A study by Brigham Young University found that employees who chose gift cards as rewards had better outcomes in employee wellness programs. Gift cards were more motivating than cash or tangible rewards for participants, with those selecting them completing wellness challenges 25% more frequently.
Selenocysteine is an essential amino acid for certain species, including humans and vertebrates, while others have lost it. Researchers from the Centre for Genomic Regulation have discovered that nine out of 1,000 fungi genomes contain selenocysteine.
A recent study found that bacteria from frog skin have produced compounds that can inhibit the growth of fungi, including Aspergillus fumigatus. The most promising compound, viscosin, showed significant activity against both fungi.
Scientists discover a new family of fungi that threatens the UNESCO-listed Old Cathedral of Coimbra in Portugal. The fungus, Aeminiaceae fam. nov., has been found to cause severe biodeterioration and is considered an endemic species to Iberian Peninsula limestone quarries.
Researchers from Aarhus University have solved the structure of a Sugar Transport Protein (STP) and discovered a novel domain that plays a crucial role in the transport mechanism. The discovery provides valuable insights into how plants develop correctly and respond to fungal attacks.
A recent study found that wolf lichens may harbor multiple fungi, challenging the long-held view of a single fungus and alga. The research team used genome sequencing to analyze the composition of these organisms.
Researchers found that Candida albicans exploits lack of oxygen to cause disease by evading immune cells and thriving in deep-seeded body sites. The fungus uses low oxygen environments to become more virulent and causes life-threatening, systemic disease.
Essential oils and aqueous plant extracts inhibit Aspergillus growth and aflatoxin biosynthesis, offering potential solutions to prevent food contamination. Standardization of extraction procedures and further study on active compounds are necessary to ensure safe use in food products.
Researchers discovered a variety of microorganisms on a 17th century painting, including bacteria and fungi, which may be employed to protect artworks from biodegradation. The study suggests that certain biocompounds containing bacterial spores could potentially be used to preserve works of art at risk of degradation.
Scientists have discovered that a fungus and a caterpillar are in a symbiotic relationship, allowing the caterpillar to thrive in orchards while also helping the fungus spread. The navel orangeworm caterpillar can metabolize aflatoxins produced by the Aspergillus flavus fungus, making it immune to its toxic effects.
Researchers build a genetic profile for section Nigri of Aspergillus fungi, allowing for comparisons within and across the subgroup. The study reveals thousands of new genes, species-specific gene clusters, and insights into species diversification and evolution.
Climate change and overexploitation are driving the decline of caterpillar fungus in the Himalayas. Rising winter temperatures and unfavorable conditions are threatening the sustainability of this valuable traditional medicine component.
The study found that the selfish genes were unrelated to each other and use different mechanisms to kill sibling spores, suggesting they may be more common than previously thought. The discovery provides new insights into the genetics of fungal fratricide and has implications for understanding evolutionary patterns.
The three-toed amphiuma, a common species in Louisiana, has shown resistance to the fungus causing amphibian populations to decline worldwide. Researchers discovered compounds that inhibited fungal growth, highlighting its unique properties and potential for protection against chytridiomycosis.
Researchers have developed a single-cell genomics approach to explore unknown fungal diversity, revealing essential metabolism genes and insights into phylogenetic position. The study successfully reconstructed near-complete fungal genomes from environmental samples, shedding light on the cryptic biology of unculturable species.
A study by University of Maryland researchers suggests that frog populations in El Copé developed the ability to tolerate chytrid fungus, enabling them to persist despite severe species losses. The findings, published in 2018, could mean good news for other hot spots of amphibian biodiversity hit hard by the chytrid fungus.
Scientists have discovered a genetic mutation that increases the amount of dangerous fungal spores in the lungs, making people more susceptible to Aspergillus infections. A new test could detect this mutation and screen patients at risk from lethal fungal spores.
A Stanford study has mapped the human exposome, a dynamic cloud of microbes, chemicals, and particulates that surround us. The research provides unprecedented detail on the variety of biological and chemical exposures at an individual level, offering new insights into human health and environmental influences.
Researchers have identified KIN3 as a crucial enzyme connecting cellular signalling pathways involved in fungal developmental processes. The study found that mutants lacking this enzyme were sterile and exhibited developmental disorders.
Researchers from Harvard University review the tripartite system between bats, bat flies, and Laboulbeniales fungi, highlighting the need for further study on this understudied phenomenon. The team aims to advance our understanding of the biology, host associations, and phylogenetic relationships of these organisms.
A new study reveals that animal and fungal species have a significant impact on forest performance, including carbon storage and climate regulation. The research, conducted over ten years in subtropical forests, found that biodiversity must be considered as a whole to maintain forest health.
A fungus called Entomophthora muscae has been found to control the behavior of fruit flies, infecting their nervous system and causing them to climb to high points. The fungus feeds on the fly's fat stores before altering its behavior, eventually leading to the fly's death.
Researchers at LSU have characterized the cell wall structure of Aspergillus fumigatus, a fatal fungus affecting over 200,000 people annually. The high-resolution architecture reveals a semi-waterproof core and sugar-protein mixture, providing molecular basis for engineering effective antifungal drugs.
A team of UCLA engineers and scientists discovered a new and potentially highly effective type of weed killer using a genomics-driven approach. The new herbicide inhibits an enzyme necessary for plant survival, providing a promising alternative to current herbicides.
Researchers found over 70% of implants colonized by bacteria, fungi, or both, without causing infections. The discovery opens up a new field of understanding the interplay between the body and microbiomes.
A recent study has traced the origins of deadly chytrid fungus to East Asia, highlighting the need for increased biosafety guidelines and trade regulations to prevent its spread. The researchers sequenced pathogen samples from around the world and identified four main genetic lineages of the fungus, including one found only in Korea.
Researchers discovered a behaviour-modifying chemical weapon produced by the fungus parasite Escovopsis, which alters leafcutter ant behavior and leads to colony collapse. The study sheds light on the complex arms race between ants and their parasitic partners.
A study has revealed that pyraclostrobin, a widely used fungicide, impairs silk production in silkworms by increasing caterpillar mortality up to three times and reducing cocoons size. This finding suggests that pesticide poisoning may be one of the causes of the decline in Brazilian silkworm cocoon production.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a fungus-produced pigment, xylindein, that could become a sustainable alternative to silicon in electronic applications. The pigment, found in infected wood, has high durability and stability, making it suitable for wearable electronics.
Researchers from Singapore University of Technology and Design have successfully developed sustainable 3D printing using cellulose, a widely available organic compound. The new material, FLAM, is strong, lightweight, and inexpensive, with a production cost 10 times lower than traditional plastics.
Researchers developed a technique to distinguish between natural and synthetic truffle compounds using carbon isotope ratios. The method can reliably detect foods containing synthetic truffle aroma or a mixture of synthetic and natural aromas, helping to fight food fraud.
Researchers found that climate change led to a shift in the host choice of zombie ant fungi, from leaves to twigs and bark, as tropical forests transitioned to temperate areas. The study, published in Evolution, reveals that this adaptation occurred independently in different locations around the world.
Researchers have discovered that soil microbes use chemical signals to defend against each other and devastating crop diseases. The study found that certain bacteria can induce fungi to produce protective compounds, while the fungus's own defense mechanisms are triggered by the bacterial invasion.
Scientists deciphered the biosynthetic gene cluster for furanosteroid demethoxyviridin, a nanomolar-potency inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). The research group identified key enzymes involved in the biosynthesis pathway.
A deadly fungus responsible for devastating amphibian populations worldwide may have originated in East Asia, new research suggests. The study analyzed genetic data from over 234 samples and found that four main genetic lineages of the fungus, including one native to Korea, contained high levels of genetic diversity.
A deadly disease threatening frogs originated in East Asia, with global trade and human movement of amphibians contributing to its spread. The study found that the range of the disease expanded greatly between 50 and 120 years ago, coinciding with the rapid expansion of intercontinental trade.
A deadly fungus, chytridiomycosis, affecting amphibian populations was traced to the Korean peninsula through genetic sequencing of 177 fungal samples. Human trade of amphibian species accelerated its global spread, with strains showing varying levels of virulence.
A genetic analysis reveals leafcutter ants originated in South America and owe their success to more than just crop selection. The ants' ability to consume fresh leaves allows them to access a vast ecosystem, enabling massive colonies with specialized tasks.
A new study by San Francisco State University researchers links the introduction of American bullfrogs to the spread of a deadly fungus that has wiped out over 200 species of amphibians globally. The team found that bullfrogs were often present in the same watersheds as the fungus, suggesting they may be contributing to its spread.
Archaeologists discovered evidence of ancient Neolithic communities using fungi as tinder to start and transport fires at the La Draga site. Researchers analyzed a unique set of remains, finding six fungal species used for this purpose, including Daedalea quercina and Coriolopsis gallica.
Researchers identified principles for efficient mechanical systems that generate and amplify kinetic energy. Shorter latch release times amplify power, while longer durations eliminate it, explaining why small spring-based systems are more effective.
Researchers discovered that bacteria and fungus working together make biofilm on teeth more pathogenic and difficult to remove. A combination of fluconazole and povidone iodide effectively treats the biofilm by disrupting the protective matrix produced by bacteria.
The pin mold fungus Phycomyces blakesleeanus uses a gene from bacteria to create large gravity-sensing crystals that help it grow upright. Genetic analysis reveals the role of horizontal gene transfer in acquiring this unique trait, providing insights into the evolution of adaptation.
Researchers found that parasitic ants are accepted by host colonies due to their potent chemical weaponry, which protects against a more deadly invader. The study suggests a mutually beneficial relationship between the hosts and parasites, where the enemy of your enemy is your friend.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals the genetic basis of structural diversity among trichothecene toxins produced by fungi. The analysis of genomic sequences and molecular biology experiments found that different combinations and versions of TRI genes are responsible for the diversity of trichothecene structures.
A team of researchers has found that a specific bacterium in the microbiota of leafcutter ants produces trail pheromones, which guide the ants to their nests without deviation. The pyrazine-producing bacteria were discovered by chance while investigating the ants' defense against parasitic fungi.
A team of scientists has found a way to trap the rice blast fungus within a single plant cell, stopping its spread. The breakthrough discovery reveals how the fungus manipulates natural channels to evade the plant's immune system.
A new approach using drug-like molecules is being tested to tackle fungal infections, which cause billions of illnesses and 1.5 million deaths annually. The project uses glycan-based molecules that weaken fungal cell walls, making them more visible to the immune system.
Researchers at KIT used high-resolution microscopy to observe the growth of mold fungi in living cells, gaining a comprehensive model for directed cell growth. The study reveals the role of vesicle transport in polar growth and has implications for understanding fungal growth and its applications.
Scientists found that Trichophyton rubrum nearly all belong to a single mating type and refuse to mate with others, even under various conditions. The fungus's high clonality may limit its ability to adapt, making it more susceptible to new antifungal medications.
Researchers discovered molecular evidence of obligate symbiosis in lichens, where fungal organisms streamline their genomes to coexist with algae. This finding suggests a genetic division of labor that makes the resulting lichen more efficient, potentially conferring an ecological advantage.
A new study suggests that the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914 may have led to the introduction of a deadly fungal disease, Cryptococcus gattii, into the Pacific Northwest region. The fungus, native to tropical regions, has caused outbreaks in Washington and Oregon, with symptoms including cough, shortness of breath, and confusion.
Scientists have identified two fungal genes that cause disease in corn, which could lead to the development of more resistant hybrid varieties. The discovery provides insight into how the fungus outsmarts corn's defenses and may enable researchers to create plant varieties that can detect and resist specific pathogens.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified a type of white blood cell that regulates the gut fungal population and protects against harmful fungi. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms leading to ASCA generation, suggesting patients with certain gene variants may benefit from antifungal therapy.