Disease: Diabetes

Multi-omics analysis of Taiwanofungus gaoligongensis: effects of different cultivation methods on secondary metabolites

This study examined how different growing methods affect the medicinal compounds found in Taiwanofungus gaoligongensis, a rare Chinese medicinal fungus. Researchers discovered that growing this fungus on wood substrates from specific trees significantly increased production of beneficial compounds like antcins and antrodin C, which have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. By analyzing gene expression patterns, they identified key genes and regulatory mechanisms that control the production of these medicinal compounds, suggesting ways to improve cultivation methods for better medicinal value.

Read More »

Comparison of Ergosterol and Vitamin D2 in Mushrooms Agaricus bisporus and Cordyceps militaris Using Ultraviolet Irradiation Directly on Dry Powder or in Ethanol Suspension

This study shows that exposing mushroom powder suspended in ethanol to ultraviolet light effectively converts ergosterol (a natural compound in mushrooms) into vitamin D2, which is essential for bone health and immunity. The optimal treatment involves UV-C light exposure for 120 minutes at a specific distance, producing about 15 times more vitamin D2 than direct irradiation of dry mushroom powder. After removing the ethanol, these treated mushrooms could serve as a practical natural source of vitamin D for people with deficiency.

Read More »

Nutritional and Organoleptic Characterization of Two Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) Cultivars Grown in Quebec, Canada

This study examined two types of quinoa grown in Quebec, Canada, comparing them to Bolivian quinoa. Researchers tested their nutritional content, including proteins, fats, and important compounds, as well as how they taste. Quebec quinoa had good nutrition, though it was sometimes bitter. Interestingly, the bitterness people tasted didn’t always match the chemical bitterness compounds (saponins) measured in the lab.

Read More »

Influence of Culture Conditions on Bioactive Compounds in Cordyceps militaris: A Comprehensive Review

Cordyceps militaris is a medicinal fungus used in traditional medicine for treating fatigue, boosting immunity, and fighting cancer. This review explains how growing conditions—such as the type of grain or insect substrate used, light exposure, temperature, and nutrient balance—dramatically affect the production of beneficial compounds like cordycepin. The research shows that mixing grains with insect-based materials and using specific light wavelengths can significantly increase the potency of these medicinal fungi, making them more effective for health applications.

Read More »

Mushroom: an emerging source for next generation meat analogues

Mushrooms are emerging as excellent meat substitutes because they have a meaty, chewy texture and savory flavor similar to meat, while being nutritious, low in fat, and sustainable to grow. When added to meat products like sausages, burgers, and nuggets, mushrooms improve texture, extend shelf-life, and reduce spoilage. The growing shift toward plant-based eating combined with environmental concerns makes mushroom-based meat alternatives an attractive option for consumers seeking healthier and more sustainable food choices.

Read More »

Harnessing pycnidia-forming fungi for eco-friendly nanoparticle production, applications, and limitations

Certain fungi called pycnidial fungi can create tiny particles called nanoparticles that are useful in medicine, agriculture, and environmental cleanup. These fungi naturally produce chemicals and enzymes that reduce metal ions into nanoparticles, which have antimicrobial and cancer-fighting properties. While this biological approach is more environmentally friendly than chemical methods, scientists still need to solve challenges like making it work at large scales and ensuring the nanoparticles are safe and stable.

Read More »

Delivery of Phenolic Compounds, Peptides and β-Glucan to the Gastrointestinal Tract by Incorporating Dietary Fibre-Rich Mushrooms into Sorghum Biscuits

This study examined how adding mushroom powder to sorghum biscuits affects the availability of beneficial compounds in our digestive system. Using laboratory simulations of stomach and intestinal digestion, researchers found that mushroom-enriched biscuits released more phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties throughout the digestive tract. Importantly, the mushroom fiber helped carry beneficial β-glucan compounds to the colon, where they can be fermented by gut bacteria to produce health-promoting compounds.

Read More »

Superficial Fungal Infections in Children—What Do We Know?

Superficial fungal infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot are common in children and are caused by fungi, yeasts, or molds that spread through contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated surfaces. These infections primarily affect the scalp, skin, and nails, with scalp infections being most common in young children. Treatment typically uses topical creams for mild cases or oral medications for more severe infections, particularly those affecting nails or the scalp. Proper hygiene, avoiding contaminated areas, and limiting contact with infected individuals or animals are key to prevention.

Read More »

Isolation, purification, and structural elucidation of Stropharia rugosoannulata polysaccharides with hypolipidemic effect

Scientists extracted and studied a polysaccharide from wine cap mushrooms that shows promise for lowering cholesterol and protecting the liver. The compound, called SRF-3, has a complex sugar structure and works by binding to cholesterol and bile acids, helping the body eliminate them. Testing in laboratory conditions showed it has strong antioxidant properties and can reduce fat accumulation in liver cells, suggesting potential use as a natural supplement for managing high cholesterol.

Read More »
Scroll to Top