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Researchers Turn a Toxic Fungus Into Cancer-Fighting Drug
UNITED STATES, JUN 23 – Scientists isolated asperigimycins from Aspergillus flavus fungus, showing selective leukemia cell-killing effects comparable to FDA-approved drugs, with plans for animal testing next.
- On June 23, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania isolated a new class of compounds called asperigimycins from the deadly fungus Aspergillus flavus, published in Nature Chemical Biology.
- Historically linked to mysterious deaths during tomb excavations, Aspergillus flavus was dubbed the “pharaoh’s curse” fungus due to its deadly reputation.
- Laboratory tests show two asperigimycin variants strongly inhibit leukemia cells, with lipid modifications matching FDA-approved drugs' efficacy.
- Researchers plan to test asperigimycins in animal models and humans, highlighting fungi’s untapped potential for new cancer therapies.
- Beyond this study, asperigimycins could join fungi-derived medicines like penicillin, highlighting nature’s potential to inspire innovative therapies, as research reveals fungi’s untapped medical promise.
104 Articles
104 Articles
Toxic fungus from King Tutankhamun’s tomb yields cancer-fighting compounds – new study
Miro Varcek / Shutterstock.comIn November 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter peered through a small hole into the sealed tomb of King Tutankhamun. When asked if he could see anything, he replied: “Yes, wonderful things.” Within months, however, Carter’s financial backer Lord Carnarvon was dead from a mysterious illness. Over the following years, several other members of the excavation team would meet similar fates, fuelling legends of the “pharao…
A toxic mold known for its connection to the so-called curse of Tutankhamun's tomb could become a key weapon in the fight against cancer.
The Gateway Pundit
domigood.comPharoah’s Curse Fungus Yields Breakthrough in Blood Cancer Treatment
In a stunning discovery, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have harnessed a deadly fungus, once blamed for the “Pharaoh’s Curse,” to develop a promising new treatment for blood cancer.
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