Cold Air Plasma Jets Redefine Fungal Nail Treatment
Researchers developed a plasma jet device that effectively kills 90% of Trichophyton rubrum fungus in nails, utilizing shock waves from pulsed cold air plasma, representing…
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.
Researchers developed a plasma jet device that effectively kills 90% of Trichophyton rubrum fungus in nails, utilizing shock waves from pulsed cold air plasma, representing…
The World Health Organization has identified Aspergillus fumigatus as a critical public health threat due to its potential lethality to immunocompromised individuals. The soil and…
Healthcare professionals are warned of emerging, highly contagious fungal infections, including sexually transmitted and drug-resistant strains, which may be misdiagnosed due to their atypical presentation….
Researchers found that the fungus Parengyodontium album degrades UV-exposed polyethylene in the ocean, suggesting that similar fungi might also break down plastics in deeper waters….
Combining azoles with bisphosphonates enhances the treatment of fungal infections, showing significant efficacy in lab tests and potential in reducing drug resistance. Dermatophytes are fungi…
Scientists have discovered a virus that infects a deadly amphibian fungus, offering hope for combating a disease that has led to significant declines in frog…
Research shows small environmental changes can significantly influence the structures of cells and organisms. Scientists have found a “tipping point” in the evolution of fungi…
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel have identified a yeast that could be used to prevent invasive candidiasis, a major cause of…
The researchers were inspired by the appearance and habitat of the fungus, drawing parallels to the iconic sandworms known as ‘Shai-Hulud’ from Frank Herbert’s renowned…
A study from Baylor College of Medicine found that the fungus Candida albicans can produce toxic peptides linked to Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting the fungus might…
Researchers inoculated rapeseed plants with a species of fungus that is known for its ability to combat pest insects. Utilizing the relationship between beneficial fungi…
A study conducted four years ago suggested a potential link between a common type of fungus and the development of pancreatic cancer, providing a promising…
Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Research Science (CSRS) and the University of Toronto have discovered an innovative way to combat fungal infections. This…
Research uncovers how fungus delivers RNA weaponry. Gray mold, the culprit behind billions in annual crop losses by infecting a wide variety of fruits and…
Scientists from the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Research Science (CSRS) and the University of Toronto have uncovered a new way to attack fungal infections. This…
An anti-fungal compound produced by plants doesn’t work on at least one fungus. RIKEN scientists have discovered how a parasitic fungus renders harmless a powerful…
New study suggests some vaccines could induce a protective shift in the microorganisms that live with a host organism. A human or animal’s microbiome —…
Increasing Threat of Spread of Antimicrobial-resistant Fungus in Healthcare Facilities Candida auris (C. auris), an emerging fungus considered an urgent antimicrobial resistance (AR) threat, spread…