Could a legendary tomb curse become a medical miracle? Scientists may have reengineered Aspergillus flavus, linked to King Tut’s tomb, into a leukemia-fighting agent. A potentially deadly fungus known as the ‘pharaoh’s curse fungus’ could offer an unexpected path to fighting cancer, recent research suggests. Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania modified molecules from the fungus to create a new compound with enhanced cancer-killing properties.
Dr. Xue (Sherry) Gao, associate professor at UPenn and leader of the study, remarked in a press release, ‘Fungi gave us penicillin – these results show that many more medicines derived from natural products remain to be found.’ The study, published in the journal Nature Chemical Biology, focused on isolating compounds known as ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides, or ‘RiPPs,’ from the fungus. These compounds were previously known to be a good source for such molecules. When these compounds enter cancer cells, they may block the formation of microtubules, essential for cell division.
In the study, two variants of the molecules within these RiPPs were found to have potent effects against leukemia cells. One variant performed as well as two FDA-approved cancer treatments, cytarabine and daunorubicin. However, Dr. Tiffany Troso-Sandoval, a medical oncologist based in New York who was not involved in the study, cautioned that this research, conducted on cell cultures, is still in its early stages. She emphasized that further testing is needed to determine if the compound could be effective in treating different subtypes of leukemia, such as acute and chronic forms.
While the fungus Aspergillus flavus is found in decaying leaves, compost, trees, plants, and some crops, it is generally not dangerous to healthy individuals. However, it can cause respiratory issues for those with weakened immune systems or taking certain medications. The fungus is also associated with severe complications such as lung hemorrhage, life-threatening infections in the brain, heart, and kidneys. Decades ago, the opening of King Tut’s tomb in the 1920s led to the death of multiple members of the excavation team, fueling rumors of a ‘curse.’ Later investigations suggested that the fungus may have been responsible for these deaths. Similarly, in the 1970s, a dozen scientists entered another tomb and 10 died within weeks, with subsequent research suggesting the presence of the same fungus.
The study’s findings highlight the potential of natural products in the development of new cancer therapies. However, the compound explored in the study had little to no effect on breast, liver, and lung cancer cells, indicating its disruptive effects are specific to certain cell types. Researchers aim to test this fungus’s potential in animal models and, eventually, human trials. Dr. Gao expressed excitement about the possibilities, stating that ‘nature can create things that can benefit society.’ The study received support from the National Institutes of Health, the University of Pennsylvania, the Welch Foundation, and other research institutions.