The treasured giants: a current overview on agricultural, nutritional, bioactive, and economic potential of Macrocybe Species (Agaricales, Basidiomycota)
- Author: mycolabadmin
- 11/18/2024
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Summary
Macrocybe mushrooms are giant edible fungi found in tropical regions worldwide that offer significant nutritional and health benefits. These mushrooms can be cultivated using agricultural waste materials like sawdust and straw, making them an economical crop. Rich in proteins, fibers, vitamins, and medicinal compounds, they possess antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties that could benefit human health.
Background
Macrocybe is a genus of large edible mushrooms in the family Callistosporiaceae comprising eight species with worldwide distribution. These mushrooms are commonly consumed by local populations and are increasingly recognized for their agricultural and commercial potential.
Objective
This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Macrocybe species regarding their economic, culinary, nutritional, and medicinal significance, and to assess their suitability as potential commercial crops through analysis of cultivation practices, optimization conditions, and bioactive properties.
Results
Eight Macrocybe species are identified with varying geographical distributions. M. gigantea, M. crassa, M. titans, and M. lobayensis have developed cultivation methodologies using lignocellulosic wastes. These mushrooms are rich in proteins, fibers, vitamins, minerals, and possess β-glucans with antimicrobial, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anticancer, and hepatoprotective properties.
Conclusion
Macrocybe species demonstrate significant commercial potential due to their large size, nutritional value, medicinal properties, and extended shelf life. Further optimization of cultivation practices and introduction of these species to new regions could substantially expand the global mushroom industry.
- Published in:Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology,
- Study Type:Review,
- Source: PMID: 39624266