We investigated the effects of  exudate (yellow liquid that drips out when a leaf is cut, different from the gel) from various aloe plants on two different species of fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) and Micrsoporum nanum (Mn). These fungi are dermatophytes, meaning they grow in and infect keratin, such as hair, nails, and skin. We also tested individual chemical components of the aloe exudate (alonin and aloein) on the fungus. We determined if the fungus could grow on the aloe and, if so, to what extent. We also looked at the micrsocopic effects of the aloe on the fungal structure. 

Pseudogymnoascus destructans, or Pd, is a cold-loving fungus that causes White Nose Syndrome (WNS), a deadly disease infecting bats. WNS is a major cause of little brown bat deaths throughout North America since 2009. Pd hyphae infect the wings of the bats and are spread via conidia (spores). The characteristic "white nose" of infected bats occurs when the fungus spreads from the wings to the muzzle. Investigating antifungal remedies for Pd may lead to a treatment for WNS.

Microsporum nanum, or Mn, is a fungus that causes ringworm in pigs and humans. The goal of using this additional dermatophyte is to determine whether the treatment if effective in other mammals.  

We are using three different species of Aloe: A. barbadensis, A. camarooni, and A. striata. Aloe has been used to treat burn wounds and in home remedies for decades. We are also investigating the effects of two of the major chemicals in their yellow exudate, aloein and alonin. 

These are two of the major chemical components in aloe, present in the exudate in the highest amount. Aloin (see photo to right) and aloenin were used similarly to the exudates to test what component in the exudate was the antifungal agent.