🏺 The agent of Tutankhamun's curse could cure cancer

The highly toxic fungus Aspergillus flavus, known for its yellow spores and associated with legends like the curse of Tutankhamun, might actually play an important role in fighting cancer. Researchers have discovered that it produces highly promising molecules against certain cancer cells.


Scientists have isolated a group of small molecules called RiPPs, which the fungus naturally produces. These molecules have a unique nested ring structure that appears highly effective against cells responsible for leukemia, a blood cancer.

Two versions of these molecules, called asperigimycins, have shown very promising results in laboratory tests. One of them was even modified to include a lipid (a fat molecule), which increased its effectiveness to the point of rivaling some existing cancer drugs.

The asperigimycins block a key mechanism in cancer cell division by preventing the formation of microtubules, which act like "rails" that allow chromosomes to separate during division. This blockage stops leukemia cells from multiplying.

What makes this discovery particularly exciting is that these molecules only target leukemia cells. They leave other cell types unharmed, meaning they could offer a treatment with fewer side effects than current chemotherapy.

Researchers now plan to test these molecules in animals before considering clinical trials in humans. This discovery once again shows that nature, even through unappealing fungi, can provide leads for treating serious diseases.