Latest news with #Aspergillus
Sydney Morning Herald
2 days ago
- Health
- Sydney Morning Herald
Toxic fungi behind the ‘Pharaoh's curse' can kill cancer cells
British nobleman Lord Carnarvon was one of the first people to step into the rediscovered tomb of King Tutankhamun and behold its treasures: gold chariots, scarab pendants, a statue of Anubis and the pharaoh's famed death mask with eyes of obsidian and quartz. Carnarvon's untimely death, five months later in April 1923, helped spawn the myth of the pharaoh's curse – that anyone who disturbs a mummy's tomb is doomed to misfortune. Some scientists suspect the real killer, however, was infection by a toxic fungus that lay dormant in the tomb like a booby trap: Aspergillus flavus. Now the fungus is again at the centre of intrigue after researchers in the US crafted the deadly spores into a compound that can kill cancer cells. In the search for new drugs, scientists have been studying a group of natural molecules called RiPPs (ribosomally synthesised and post-translationally modified peptides). Many of these tiny proteins have proved toxic to infectious microbes and cancer cells, which is why researchers are on the hunt for new types of RiPPs to test their medical potential. 'We often think of fungi as causing disease or food spoilage, but this is an example of them holding the key to treating diseases.' Dr Justin Beardsley, University of Sydney Thousands of these molecules have been found in bacteria but only a few from fungi, which is why researchers from the University of Pennsylvania went looking in Aspergillus. They found new types of RiPPs with a structure of interlocking rings and tested them against human leukemia cells. Some of the molecules blocked the growth of the cancerous cells. Scientists then added a fat molecule present in the royal jelly that bees feed their larvae. The fat molecule or 'lipid' helped the cancer-busting RiPPs to infiltrate leukemia cells, and together the experimental combination performed as effectively as two existing leukemia drugs.
The Age
2 days ago
- Health
- The Age
Toxic fungi behind the ‘Pharaoh's curse' can kill cancer cells
British nobleman Lord Carnarvon was one of the first people to step into the rediscovered tomb of King Tutankhamun and behold its treasures: gold chariots, scarab pendants, a statue of Anubis and the pharaoh's famed death mask with eyes of obsidian and quartz. Carnarvon's untimely death, five months later in April 1923, helped spawn the myth of the pharaoh's curse – that anyone who disturbs a mummy's tomb is doomed to misfortune. Some scientists suspect the real killer, however, was infection by a toxic fungus that lay dormant in the tomb like a booby trap: Aspergillus flavus. Now the fungus is again at the centre of intrigue after researchers in the US crafted the deadly spores into a compound that can kill cancer cells. In the search for new drugs, scientists have been studying a group of natural molecules called RiPPs (ribosomally synthesised and post-translationally modified peptides). Many of these tiny proteins have proved toxic to infectious microbes and cancer cells, which is why researchers are on the hunt for new types of RiPPs to test their medical potential. 'We often think of fungi as causing disease or food spoilage, but this is an example of them holding the key to treating diseases.' Dr Justin Beardsley, University of Sydney Thousands of these molecules have been found in bacteria but only a few from fungi, which is why researchers from the University of Pennsylvania went looking in Aspergillus. They found new types of RiPPs with a structure of interlocking rings and tested them against human leukemia cells. Some of the molecules blocked the growth of the cancerous cells. Scientists then added a fat molecule present in the royal jelly that bees feed their larvae. The fat molecule or 'lipid' helped the cancer-busting RiPPs to infiltrate leukemia cells, and together the experimental combination performed as effectively as two existing leukemia drugs.
New Indian Express
6 days ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Don't Blame the Pigeons for Aspergillosis
In recent times, the blue rock pigeon — also known as Columba livia — has found itself at the center of a growing controversy. Commonly seen flitting about on balconies, rooftops, and urban ledges, this resilient bird is now being scapegoated for an illness called aspergillosis. This respiratory infection, caused by fungi from the Aspergillus genus, has sparked headlines and concerns, leading many to point fingers squarely at these pigeons as disease carriers. But is this accusation fair, or is it a case of misplaced blame? Let's take a closer, more informed look. What is Aspergillosis, Really? Aspergillosis is an infection caused by Aspergillus — a genus of mold that includes hundreds of species. The most common culprit in infections is Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus that produces tiny airborne spores. These spores, when inhaled in large quantities, can cause respiratory illness, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, preexisting lung conditions, or prolonged exposure to dusty, moldy environments. However, here's the critical fact: Aspergillus is ubiquitous. It's found everywhere — in soil, decaying vegetation, compost, dust, old building materials, air-conditioning systems, bird droppings, and even in grain and spices. It thrives in damp and poorly ventilated areas. The spores are so widespread that avoiding them entirely is virtually impossible. Inhaling a few spores is a part of daily life and is generally harmless to healthy individuals. Pigeons Are Not the Sole Source — Far From It Despite popular belief, pigeons are not the origin of aspergillosis. While the droppings of any bird — including pigeons — can provide a damp organic medium where mold might grow, this is no different from a damp corner of a bathroom, an uncleaned air duct, or neglected plant soil. The link between pigeons and the fungus is indirect at best. The presence of pigeons may coincide with mold-friendly conditions, but they are not the cause. Blaming pigeons alone for spreading a naturally occurring mold is scientifically unfounded. The real issue is environmental hygiene, not avian biology.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
'World near tipping point': Study warns about a deadly fungus that could kill millions
A new study has raised concerns about the possible spread of a deadly fungus across Europe, Asia, and the Americas due to rising global temperatures. The fungus, Aspergillus, thrives in warm and damp environments and could cause severe lung infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory illnesses. Risk of infection linked to warming climate Researchers say that Aspergillus could expand its reach as temperatures rise, making millions more vulnerable to its effects. The fungus is already known to grow in compost and other high-temperature settings. Its ability to survive at 37°C, the temperature inside the human body, allows it to infect the lungs of susceptible individuals. While not everyone who inhales its spores falls ill, people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or weakened immunity are more likely to be affected. A global shift in species distribution Norman van Rhijn, a co-author of the study, warned that the world was approaching a "tipping point" regarding fungal pathogens. "We're talking about hundreds of thousands of lives, and continental shifts in species distributions. In 50 years, where things grow and what you get infected by is going to be completely different," Van Rhijn told the Financial Times. Live Events The study noted that Aspergillus fumigatus could potentially spread to 77% more territory by 2100 if fossil fuel use continues at the current rate. This would put an estimated nine million people in Europe at risk of exposure. Limited understanding of fungal pathogens Scientists say the danger is made worse by the fact that fungi are one of the least understood groups of organisms. Only around 10% of the estimated 1.5 to 3.8 million fungal species have been properly identified, and very few have had their genomes sequenced. "Its lifestyle in the natural environment may have provided Aspergillus fumigatus with the fitness advantage needed to colonise human lungs," said Professor Elaine Bignell, co-director at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at Exeter University. Drug development lags behind Despite the potential threat, investment in antifungal medicines has been slow. Scientists say this is due to high development costs and low expected returns, making it a less attractive area for pharmaceutical companies. The study also mentioned the fungus's ability to survive in extreme conditions, including the radioactive environment inside Chernobyl's nuclear reactors, which underlines its resilience.
New York Post
13-07-2025
- New York Post
This commonly used item is 58 times dirtier than a public toilet seat — beware the next time you go to use it
That's gross. It's hard to believe that there is something dirtier than a public toilet bowl — but there is, and it's something that travelers use several times a year. The wheels of a suitcase are a breeding ground for bacteria, carrying nearly 58 times more than the place where people publicly relieve themselves, according to a study conducted by insurance company Insure and Go. Advertisement Your luggage is carrying around a gross amount of bacteria KaysArt – Insure and Go partnered with microbiologist Amy-May Pointer to swab the wheels and the base of both hard and soft-shell suitcases at an airport train station. Their findings revealed that several different types of bacteria live on the majority of travelers' suitcases — Staphylococcus species, which is a common skin bacterium, Serratia marcescens, usually found in bathrooms and Aspergillus species, which are described by the research team as 'black fuzzy molds.' Advertisement 'The microbial communities found on the suitcases included skin bacteria, environmental moulds, and some faecal-associated germs amongst others,' said Pointer, according to Insure and Go. Most of these organisms are not highly dangerous in everyday settings, but they form a film of general filth. This explains that grimy feel or musty odour luggage can get after multiple trips.' Now, knowing this, think of all the places that your suitcase, which has been carrying around all this gross bacteria, has touched. Gross. Advertisement 'The key point is that microbes were very diverse, reflecting all the places the luggage had been. It reinforces the recommendation to keep luggage away from clean surfaces like beds and to deep clean it occasionally,' the expert advised. To clean a soft or hard-shell piece of luggage, the Wire Cutter team recommends wiping it down with either an alcohol wipe or mixing dish soap with water and using a rag to wipe it clean. It's recommended to wipe down your luggage after every use. triocean – To clean the dirty wheels, first get rid of any hair or carpet fibers stuck using scissors before wiping them down with an all-purpose cleaner. Advertisement It's recommended to clean your suitcase after every trip and 'If you want to go the extra mile, consider using a washable suitcase cover, or even slip shower caps over the wheels when bringing it inside,' Pointer suggested. 'It might sound silly, but covering those wheels can stop them from spreading bacteria across your carpet or bedding. You could be protecting your sheets from the kind of microbes that include skin-irritating bacteria like Staphylococcus species.' Suitcases aren't the only commonly used bacteria-filled things. $100 bills have Staphylococcus bacteria, smartphones can carry a variety of bacteria and public toilet seats can contain E. coli growth, according to researcher Amani Abdlrasul, who works as a medical laboratory scientist in Tampa, Florida.
