Transcriptomic insights into the molecular mechanism of abietic acid promoting growth and branching in Armillaria gallica

Scientists discovered that abietic acid, a natural compound from pine trees, significantly boosts the growth of Armillaria gallica mushrooms by up to 302% in just three days. This fungus is important because it helps grow Gastrodia elata, a valuable traditional Chinese medicinal herb. By studying which genes turned on in response to abietic acid, researchers found it works by helping the fungus break down nutrients more efficiently and remodel its cell walls for better growth. This discovery could improve cultivation techniques for medicinal mushrooms and their plant partners.