Researchers investigated using corncob, a corn industry byproduct, as a growing medium for Auricularia heimuer mushrooms instead of expensive sawdust. By analyzing which genes the mushroom activates at different growth stages, they identified key enzymes responsible for breaking down corncob’s tough cellulose structure. The findings show the mushroom can effectively adapt to use corncob as a substrate, offering a sustainable and economical alternative for mushroom farming while reducing agricultural waste.