Morel mushrooms (Morchella importuna) lose quality when repeatedly grown from cultured samples, a process called strain degeneration. Scientists found that degenerated strains have lower levels of beneficial compounds called flavonoids, which normally protect mushroom cells from damage. By studying gene expression and metabolite changes, researchers identified a specific gene responsible for making these protective flavonoids, which becomes less active in degenerated strains. This research suggests that avoiding frequent reculturing and maintaining cold storage or adding antioxidants could help preserve healthy morel mushroom strains.