Unearthing the ‘Pharaoh’s Curse’

When **Tutankhamun**’s tomb opened in 1922, the event fascinated the world. Stories of the “Pharaoh’s Curse” soon spread, hinting at mysterious illnesses. The true source, however, appears to be a dangerous fungus.

The fungus, Aspergillus flavus, once considered a menace, is now a source of hope.

The Fungus and Its Promise

Fungi like Aspergillus flavus thrived in the sealed, humid environment of the tomb. This same fungus, once linked to tales of curses, now shows promise for fighting cancer. Researchers have found that this fungus may contain compounds that could combat cancer cells.

“Fungi gave us penicillin, and these results show that there are still many more medicines to discover from nature.”

—Sherry Gao, Associate Professor

A recent study indicates that these asperigimycins can stop cancer cells from dividing, creating an exciting mechanism for new treatments (Nature Chemical Biology). The National Cancer Institute estimates that in 2024, there will be an estimated 1.9 million new cancer cases diagnosed in the United States (Source: National Cancer Institute).

Transforming Fear into Hope

The journey of this fungus, from a source of ancient fear to a potential life-saving treatment, is remarkable. Science reveals that nature’s mysteries, even the ominous ones, can inspire medical breakthroughs. Fungi that once caused fear are now seen as a potential source for medicines.

Cancer: Deadly ‘Pharaoh’s Curse’ Fungus may hold key to beating cancer |

Researchers are testing the compounds for their effects on leukaemia cells.

Future Treatments

Clinical trials for fungal-derived drugs are advancing. The medical community is on the verge of developing innovative, eco-friendly cancer therapies. This research honors the past while creating a hopeful future. The discovery demonstrates how a fungus with a frightening reputation could also bring hope in the fight against cancer.

Fungus From Ancient Tombs Shows Promise in Fighting Cancer

Scientists have discovered that a fungus, historically linked to the deaths of archaeologists, may hold the key to new cancer treatments. Research indicates molecules derived from this fungus could potentially disrupt the growth of leukemia cells, offering a new avenue in the fight against cancer.

Unearthing a Potential Cure

The fungus, *Aspergillus flavus*, often called the “mummy’s curse,” is being studied for its potential in combating cancer. A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania revealed promising results in stopping leukemia. The team, led by Dr. Sherry Gao, isolated and purified asperigimycins, a novel class of molecules from the fungus.

The molecules, developed inside the fungus and subsequently modified by the study authors, work by interfering with cell division. This process is key to halting the uncontrolled cell growth that defines cancer.

“Fungi gave us penicillin,”

—Dr. Sherry Gao, Associate Professor at Penn

The researchers tested these molecules against common cancer cells. Some displayed “potent” effects, even without modification, against leukemia cells. A modified variation performed as well as existing FDA-approved leukemia drugs.

How it Works

The team’s work focuses on a class of peptides often studied in bacteria, marking a unique approach to fungal research. The scientists believe these molecules block the formation of microtubules, which are vital for cell division.

“Cancer cells divide uncontrollably,” Dr. Gao stated, “These compounds block the formation of microtubules, which are essential for cell division.”

Researchers believe molecules isolated from Aspergillus flavus fungus, thought to have killed archaeologists who excavated King Tut’s tomb, could disrupt growth of leukemia cells on par with existing cancer drugs (Copyright 2023The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Challenges and Implications

*Aspergillus flavus* is a frequently isolated mold species in agriculture and medicine and can cause lung infections in people, particularly those with weakened immune systems. This is especially true for those with compromised immune systems, according to the CDC, with about 200,000 cases annually (CDC 2024).

Fungus dubbed ‘mummy’s curse’ could make a powerful cancer drug, new study reveals — Aspergillus flavus can cause lung infections in humans and infect common crops (Bella Ciervo, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)

The team, which includes researchers from several universities, hopes to continue its work with animal models and eventually human trials. The research was financed by the National Institutes of Health.

These findings open up new possibilities for cancer treatments, potentially providing a new generation of drugs based on naturally occurring compounds. Further research will reveal the full extent of its potential.

Aspergillus flavus

Cancer: Deadly ‘Pharaoh’s Curse’ Fungus may hold key to beating cancer |

Ancient Fungus Holds Key to Beating Cancer