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Detection of electrical signals in fungal mycelia in response to external stimuli

Summary

Scientists developed a new tool to detect electrical signals produced by fungal mycelia, the root-like networks of fungi. Using special circuit boards with tiny sensors and a noise-reducing cage, they successfully measured electrical activity in growing fungi that varied when exposed to toxic chemicals. These findings suggest fungi use electrical signals to communicate within their networks, similar to how nerve cells communicate in animals.

Background

Electrical signaling is a fundamental communication mechanism across diverse biological systems including animals, plants, and microorganisms. While electrical activity has been observed in fungal fruiting bodies and rhizomorphs, a standardized, reproducible method for detecting these signals in vegetative mycelium has been lacking.

Objective

To develop a novel and reproducible approach for detecting extracellular electrical signals in fungal mycelia using printed circuit boards with embedded differential electrodes. The study aims to confirm the biological origin of these signals and establish a robust framework for studying fungal electrophysiology.

Results

Electrical activity correlated with fungal growth was detected, with characteristic frequencies between 1.5-8 Hz appearing after colonization of the second electrode. Treatment with biocides including cycloheximide and sodium azide altered electrical signal patterns, supporting the biological origin of the detected signals.

Conclusion

This study provides a robust, standardized framework for detecting and analyzing electrical signals in fungal mycelia. The findings suggest electrical signaling plays a role in environmental adaptation and intercellular communication in fungal networks, with implications for understanding mycelial physiology.
  • Published in:iScience,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.113484, PMID: 41035690
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