Basidiomycota – Page 4

Evolutionary Dynamics and Functional Bifurcation of the C2H2 Gene Family in Basidiomycota

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Researchers studied C2H2 genes, which are master regulators controlling important processes in fungal cells, across 30 different mushroom and fungal species. They found that these genes evolved differently depending on whether fungi were decomposers (saprotrophs) or pathogens, with decomposers maintaining more complex gene structures. During mushroom development in Sarcomyxa edulis, different C2H2 genes became active at different stages, controlling temperature adaptation, fruiting body formation, and other developmental processes.

Eight Fungal Species Associated with Ambrosia Beetles in Korea

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This research identifies eight types of fungi that live in partnership with ambrosia beetles in Korea. These fungi are food sources for beetle larvae and adults. The study found that some fungi have specific relationships with particular beetle species, while others can associate with multiple beetle types. This work helps scientists understand how beetles spread fungi and potentially cause tree diseases like oak wilt.

Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Cystolepiota (Agaricaceae, Agaricales): New Species, New Combinations and Notes on the C. seminuda Complex

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Researchers studied tiny mushrooms in the genus Cystolepiota using DNA analysis and microscopy to better understand their relationships and identify new species. They discovered that what was thought to be a single species called C. seminuda was actually multiple different species. They also found that another group of mushrooms called Pulverolepiota was distinct enough to deserve its own genus rather than being classified with Cystolepiota. This work clarifies the true diversity and proper classification of these diminutive fungi found worldwide.

Large-scale phylogenomic insights into the evolution of the Hymenochaetales

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This study examined the evolutionary history of over 1,200 species of wood-decomposing and disease-causing fungi called Hymenochaetales using genetic analysis of 171 fungal genomes. The researchers found that these fungi likely originated in temperate regions of Asia during the age of dinosaurs and gradually spread worldwide, changing their physical forms as they diversified. The research provides important insights into how major groups of fungi evolved and adapted over millions of years.

Genetic regulation of l-tryptophan metabolism in Psilocybe mexicana supports psilocybin biosynthesis

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Researchers studied how magic mushrooms (Psilocybe mexicana) control their chemical processes to make psilocybin. They found that when mushrooms start producing psilocybin, they turn on genes that make more of an amino acid called tryptophan, while turning off genes that would break it down. They also discovered and studied an enzyme that helps control tryptophan use. This understanding could help grow these mushrooms with more consistent psilocybin levels for legitimate medical research into treating depression.

Protein Coding Low-Copy rpb2 and ef1-α Regions Are Viable Fungal Metabarcoding DNA Markers Which Can Supplement ITS for Better Accuracy

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Researchers tested different DNA markers for identifying fungal species using DNA sequencing technology. They compared the standard fungal marker (ITS) with two alternative protein-coding markers (rpb2 and ef1-α) on closely related mushroom species. The results showed that using multiple markers together provides better and more reliable identification of fungal species compared to using just one marker, which is especially useful for environmental monitoring and species identification studies.

Catalogue of fungi in China 1. New taxa of plant-inhabiting fungi

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Scientists in China have discovered 33 new types of fungi, including 2 entirely new genera and 18 previously unknown species. These fungi were found growing on dead wood, leaves, and plant materials across different regions of China. By combining detailed microscopic observations with DNA analysis, researchers confirmed these are genuinely new species distinct from known types. This work is part of an ongoing effort to catalog and document all the diverse fungi living in China’s varied landscapes.

Proteins from Edible Mushrooms: Nutritional Role and Contribution to Well-Being

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Mushrooms are highly nutritious foods containing proteins as complete and high-quality as meat, with unique compounds that boost immunity, fight infections, and may help prevent diseases like cancer and diabetes. Different types of mushroom proteins have specific health benefits, from strengthening immune systems to lowering blood pressure and fighting viruses. Scientists are finding new ways to grow mushrooms and extract their proteins for use in sports nutrition, medicines, and fortified foods, making them increasingly valuable for human health and sustainability.

Identification of two metallothioneins in Agaricus crocodilinus reveals gene duplication and domain expansion, a pattern conserved across fungal species

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A common edible mushroom called A. crocodilinus can accumulate dangerous levels of cadmium from soil without being harmed. Scientists discovered this mushroom produces two different proteins called metallothioneins that work together to safely trap and store the toxic cadmium. One protein handles constant, everyday cadmium storage in the mushroom fruiting body, while the other activates quickly when the roots encounter sudden heavy metal stress. This same protective strategy appears in other mushroom species, showing it’s an important evolutionary adaptation.

Two New Species of Collybiopsis (Agaricales, Omphalotaceae) from Mudeungsan National Park in Korea

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Scientists discovered two new species of small mushrooms in Mudeungsan National Park in South Korea. These mushrooms, named Collybiopsis albida and Collybiopsis pini, are decomposer fungi that help break down dead wood and plant material in forests. The researchers used both traditional microscopic examination and modern DNA analysis to confirm these were previously unknown species, highlighting how genetic testing is essential for accurately identifying mushrooms that look similar to each other.

Research Keyword: Basidiomycota