Every month, we round up the latest news, events and updates from the microbiology world. Here are June 2025 highlights:
Aspergillus flavus is a fungus found in tombs (including the likes of King Tut!) and has long been feared due to its deadly spores. However, in a fascinating twist, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science, along with partner institutes, have extracted a new class of powerful molecules from it.
Named Asperigimycins, the molecules extracted from the fungus show promising effects against leukaemia cells, appearing to disrupt cancer cell division with high specificity.
This cancer-killing compound may well be an unlikely source of a promising new cancer therapy. The next step is to trial these molecules in animal models. Read more here.
Nipah and Hendra are two deadly viruses, found in bats, that are both known for their high fatality rates in humans. Now, researchers from the Yunnan Institute of Endemic Disease Control and Prevention in China have discovered two new viruses in bats that happen to be closely related to the deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses.
Found in fruit bats living near orchards that are located close to human villages, it is feared by researchers that these potentially deadly viruses could spread to humans and livestock through fruit contaminated with bat urine. The study raises urgent concerns about the potential spread of deadly illnesses in China. Read more here.
Sulf-2 is an enzyme that cancer cells utilise to grow and spread throughout the body. Researchers at the University of Mississippi have discovered that Sea Cucumbers host a sugar compound that can effectively block Sulf-2!
The research team found that fucosylated chondroitin sulfate (a sugar compound) from the Holothuria floridana sea cucumber can effectively inhibit Sulf-2.
This breakthrough could create a marine-based cancer therapy, which may be easier to create and safer to use than other Sulf-2 regulating medications, some of which interfere with blood clotting.
However, the research team also recognised that difficulties of developing the drug, as there is no way to get several tons of sea cucumbers. Instead, a chemical route will need to be developed.
Researchers from the University of Western Australia and the Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science have discovered a direct mechanical signal that travels directly to the energy-producing parts of the cell.
This protein production factory found in the endoplasmic reticulum cell can sense external mechanical forces, including stretching or strain. It plays a direct role in controlling how cells produce energy and prevent tissue damage.
Scientists believe that this new discovery could lead to a better understanding of how to prevent injuries and improve tissue health, which may even open the door for new treatments. Read more here.
At Pro-Lab Diagnostics, we have been manufacturing and supplying laboratory essentials, including in vitro diagnostic kits and reagents for more than 50 years. Today, we are a world-leading manufacturer, with a huge team of global distributors.
Our highly trusted and innovative products are widely used in immunodiagnostics and microbiology, contributing to healthcare around the world.
Have a question about how we can help your lab? Get in touch with our team today. Alternatively, check out our products here.
