Toxic Fungus May Hold Key to Cancer-Fighting Drugs

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. The fungus was once feared for causing deadly infections in ancient tomb explorers, including 10 of 12 researchers involved in the 1970s excavation of Polands King Casimir IVs crypt and the death of the Earl of Carnarvon shortly after visiting King Tutankhamuns tomb in 1922.

Key Takeaways:

• The study reveals that Aspergillus flavus contains molecules capable of killing leukemia cells, which could lead to a new class of cancer-fighting drugs.
• The research team isolated and engineered a group of compounds called asperigimycins from the fungus, which have been found to have strong anti-leukemia properties.
• The fungus was once feared for causing deadly infections in ancient tomb explorers, including 10 of 12 researchers involved in the 1970s excavation of Polands King Casimir IVs crypt and the death of the Earl of Carnarvon shortly after visiting King Tutankhamuns tomb in 1922.
• The study found that the asperigimycins were able to pass through cell membranes more easily, improving absorption by cancer cells, when attached to lipid molecules similar to those found in royal jelly.
• The team plans to test asperigimycins in animal models next, with hopes of progressing to human clinical trials.
• The researchers are also exploring other fungal strains in search of similarly promising compounds.

Statistics:

• 4 novel asperigimycins have been identified with an unusual interlocking ring structure and strong anti-leukemia properties.
• 2 of the asperigimycins had strong anti-leukemia properties even without modification.
• The compounds have been found to be highly selective, disrupting the division of leukemia cells while sparing healthy cells.
• Early lab results suggest that the compounds show minimal effects on breast, liver, and lung cancer cells.
• The team plans to test asperigimycins in animal models in the next stage of the research.

Sources:

• Study: Nature Chemical Biology
• University of Pennsylvania