Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a powerful anticancer compound hidden within an ancient fungus linked to mysterious “Pharaoh’s curse” deaths. The fungus, Aspergillus flavus, has been repurposed for good after being found to produce compounds with strong bioactivity against cancer cells.
The researchers identified a specific protein in the fungus that produced these compounds and found four different variants that showed therapeutic potential when tested against human cancer cells. Two of the variants demonstrated strong activity against leukemia cells, rivaling two existing leukemia drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.
The discovery also revealed a new class of natural compounds called ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides, or RiPPs. Unlike previous findings in bacteria, these compounds have been found in fungi, with potential applications for drug development.
Further analysis showed that the fungus-derived cancer therapy targets cell division, blocking the formation of microtubules essential for cancer cells to divide uncontrollably. The new compounds also demonstrated specificity towards certain types of cancer and were not toxic to other organisms.
The discovery opens up a vast, untapped source of potential drug candidates, with further research planned to test asperigimycins in animal models and ultimately pursue human trials.
Source: https://www.technologynetworks.com/cancer-research/news/deadly-ancient-tomb-fungus-could-help-fight-cancer-401354