A surprising discovery inside desert mosses could reshape scientists’ understanding of plant evolution. In some…
Browsing: Fungus
Fungi are a diverse kingdom of organisms distinct from plants, animals, and bacteria, playing critical roles in ecosystems as decomposers, pathogens, and symbionts. These organisms include yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. Fungi are characterized by their cell walls made of chitin, their method of obtaining nutrients through absorption, and their reproduction through spores. They thrive in a wide variety of environments, from soil and dead matter to living tissue and extreme habitats. Fungi are pivotal in nutrient cycling as they break down complex organic materials, releasing and redistributing essential elements to other organisms. Some fungi form symbiotic relationships, such as mycorrhizae with plant roots, enhancing nutrient absorption. However, they can also be pathogens, causing diseases in plants and animals, including humans. Additionally, fungi have significant applications in biotechnology, food production (e.g., cheese, bread, beer), and pharmaceuticals, including the production of antibiotics like penicillin.
Some Earth-based microbes may be tougher than expected, raising new questions about survival beyond our…
Fungi may hold a little-known key to ice formation in clouds. Can fungi affect the…
The fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis has played a major role in the worldwide decline of frogs…
Scientists have uncovered a way to make existing antifungal drugs work again against deadly, drug-resistant…
A deadly, drug-resistant hospital fungus may finally have a weakness—and scientists think they’ve found it.…
Preliminary studies indicate that derivatives of verticillin A can kill certain types of glioma cells.…
Researchers used CRISPR to enhance a naturally meat-like fungus, boosting its digestibility and production efficiency.…
Scientists from the University of Bath and King’s College London (KCL) suggest that hydrogen sulfide,…
Fungicides used in agriculture have been linked to an increase in resistance to antifungal drugs…
A student at WVU identified a fungus in morning glories that makes LSD-related compounds. Named…
A deadly fungal epidemic in Brazil is evolving fast: pollution, cats, and genetics may be…
Preclinical trial reveals how beta-glucan, a compound found in all fungi, can ‘reprogram’ immune cells…
Exposure to B. bassiana fungus activated Toll receptors, leading to cell death throughout the fly…
Scientists identified a new fungus, Gibellula attenboroughii, infecting cave spiders in Ireland. The fungus manipulates…
New research into a chemical from a caterpillar fungus, known for its potential as a…
Researchers developed a plasma jet device that effectively kills 90% of Trichophyton rubrum fungus in…
The World Health Organization has identified Aspergillus fumigatus as a critical public health threat due…