Deadly tomb fungus that killed 10 scientists now yields powerful cancer-killing drug: Researchers have isolated a new class of molecules from Aspergillus flavus

Interesting Engineering ^ | June 23, 2025 | Mrigakshi Dixit

[SunkenCiv]

Researchers have harnessed a deadly fungus (Aspergillus flavus) to create a powerful cancer-fighting agent.

The development is particularly notable as this toxic crop fungus has a grim historical connection. The fungus was linked to mysterious deaths among archeological teams excavating ancient tombs.

For instance, in 1922, the opening of King Tutankhamun's tomb was reportedly followed by unexplained deaths, fueling rumors of a "pharaoh's curse."

But it was later hypothesized that a dormant fungus might have been responsible.

Fast forward to the 1970s. A similar tragedy unfolded in Poland, where 10 scientists died within weeks of entering the tomb of Casimir IV.

The culprit was identified as Aspergillus flavus, infamous for its toxicity...

Penn-led researchers, spearheaded by Professor Sherry Gao, have successfully isolated a new class of molecules from Aspergillus flavus...

In this new development, the team focused on a rare class of molecules called RiPPs – ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides. These molecules are initially produced by ribosomes (the cell's protein-making machinery) and then further modified to boost their cancer-fighting abilities...

The findings were published in the journal Nature Chemical Biology.

[SunkenCiv]

Oooh, I’d copyright that idea ASAP. Gotta beat IJ4 and whatever they’re planning for IJ5:Who Needs a Runway?

[SunkenCiv]

I’ve got an idea — we market it in Hollywood and emphasize that it’s gluten free.

[SunkenCiv]

https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-aspergillus-fumigatus

[BenLurkin]

“Tomb Fungus” sounds like a character name in DC superhero comics

[Fungi]

Aspergillus is a very common fungus, which along with Cladosporium, Alternaria, Fusarium, and Pennicillium are the five most common aerial fungi. It is important economically in producing soy sauce and citric acid, but can be deadly in producing a number of potent mycotoxins.

[Red Badger]

Aspergillus is a very common fungus......

Geeze! I thought it was that log green stuff they put on your plate next to the steak at Longhorn’s Steak House!...........

[Fungi]

Everyone wants to be a comedian it seems....

[SunkenCiv]

:^) But only if he’s non-white and trans.

[Red Badger]

I won’t quit my day job.....promise!.............

[AnAmericanMother]

C’mon, now. That’s Peter Lorre’s unforgettable monologue in “M”.

[MikelTackNailer]

“Tomb Fungus” sounds like a character name in DC superhero comics

She thought she met an enemy she couldn't conquer...

Until she got to the Feminine Hygiene aisle.

[GingisK]

Peter Lori? I miss that guy.