‘Mummy curses': Fungus once linked to King Tut's tomb now being studied for cancer treatment; scientists say shows promise against leukemia
A new study published in
Nature Chemical Biology
reveals that
Aspergillus flavus
, a mould historically associated with so-called 'mummy curses,' contains molecules capable of killing leukemia cells.
The research team, led by Sherry Gao, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering at the University of Pennsylvania, isolated and engineered a group of compounds called asperigimycins from the fungus. 'This is nature's irony at its finest,' Gao said in a statement. 'The same fungus once feared for bringing death may now help save lives.'
The fungus Aspergillus flavus is known for its production of toxic spores that can survive for centuries in sealed environments like tombs. When disturbed, these spores can cause severe lung infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Historical accounts tied the deaths of several archaeologists to this fungus, including 10 of 12 researchers involved in the 1970s excavation of Poland's King Casimir IV's crypt and the death of the Earl of Carnarvon shortly after visiting King Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922.
In the latest study, scientists focused on the fungus's production of a rare class of molecules known as RiPPs — ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides. These are complex compounds with distinctive three-dimensional structures capable of interacting powerfully with human biological systems.
'We found four novel asperigimycins with an unusual interlocking ring structure,' said lead author Qiuyue Nie. 'Two of them had strong
anti-leukemia properties
even without modification.'
To enhance their potency and delivery, researchers attached lipid molecules similar to those found in royal jelly — a nutrient-rich substance produced by honeybees. This allowed the drugs to pass through cell membranes more easily, improving absorption by cancer cells.
One key finding was the role of a gene called SLC46A3, which acts like a molecular gateway. It helps the modified asperigimycins escape internal cell compartments, allowing them to directly target and destroy leukemia cells. This mechanism may help in the design of delivery systems for other promising therapies that struggle to reach their targets inside the body.
Early lab results suggest that these compounds are highly selective. While they disrupt the division of leukemia cells, they appear to spare healthy cells and show minimal effects on breast, liver, and lung cancer cells. This specificity, according to the researchers, is critical in reducing the side effects often associated with chemotherapy.
The team plans to test asperigimycins in animal models next, with hopes of progressing to human
clinical trials
. They are also exploring other fungal strains in search of similarly promising compounds.
'The ancient world is still offering us tools for modern medicine,' Gao said. 'The tombs were feared for their curses, but they may become a wellspring of cures.'
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