fungal biotechnology

Photoregulation of the biosynthetic activity of fungus Inonotus obliquus using colloidal solutions of biogenic metal nanoparticles and low-intensity laser radiation

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Scientists studied how to enhance the medicinal properties of chaga mushroom using tiny metal particles and laser light. They found that adding silver, iron, or magnesium nanoparticles to growing mushroom cultures increased biomass production. When combined with laser treatment, these nanoparticles dramatically boosted the production of beneficial compounds like polysaccharides, flavonoids, and melanin pigments that have health benefits including antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.

Establishment of a genetic transformation system for cordycipitoid fungus Cordyceps chanhua

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Scientists have successfully developed a method to genetically modify Cordyceps chanhua, an important medicinal mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 1,600 years. By optimizing how they prepare fungal cells and introduce foreign genes, they created a reliable genetic transformation system that can be used to study which genes produce beneficial compounds in this mushroom. This breakthrough will help researchers understand and potentially enhance the medicinal properties of C. chanhua.

Edible mushrooms as emerging biofactories for natural therapeutics and oral biopharmaceutical delivery

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Mushrooms are emerging as natural medicine factories that can be genetically engineered to produce medications taken by mouth. Beyond their traditional use as health foods, scientists are now using advanced genetic techniques to program mushrooms to manufacture therapeutic proteins and vaccines. These engineered mushrooms can naturally package and protect these medications as they pass through the stomach, releasing them safely in the intestines for absorption. This approach offers a sustainable, affordable, and cold-chain-independent alternative to conventional injected medications.

The beauty and the morbid: fungi as source of inspiration in contemporary art

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This article explores how artists are using fungi and fungal science as inspiration and material for contemporary artwork. From clothing made of mycelium to installations exploring decay and renewal, artists are discovering that fungi offer unique possibilities for addressing modern environmental and social issues. The paper highlights how collaboration between artists and scientists can lead to innovative solutions and new ways of thinking about materials, sustainability, and the relationship between life and death.

Patent landscape analysis for materials based on fungal mycelium: a guidance report on how to interpret the current patent situation

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This report analyzes patents protecting mycelium-based materials that could replace plastic and petroleum products in construction, packaging, and insulation. Researchers found 73 existing patents and 34 applications, mostly owned by three US companies, with concerns that overly broad patent protections may be slowing innovation in this promising sustainable materials field. The findings suggest that while mycelium materials show tremendous potential as eco-friendly alternatives, patent restrictions need better management to accelerate their development and commercialization.

Advanced Fungal Biotechnologies in Accomplishing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): What Do We Know and What Comes Next?

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Fungi are remarkable organisms with tremendous untapped potential for solving global challenges. They can be engineered to produce life-saving medicines like antibiotics and cholesterol-lowering drugs, create nutritious food alternatives, clean up polluted environments, and help fight climate change. As we transition to more sustainable living practices, fungi represent a natural solution that has been used for centuries but is only now being fully appreciated through modern biotechnology.

Pleurotus spp.—an effective way in degradation mycotoxins? A comprehensive review

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This review examines how oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus species) can break down mycotoxins—harmful compounds produced by molds in food and animal feed. These mushrooms produce special enzymes that can degrade toxins like aflatoxins and zearalenone, potentially reaching 30-100% degradation depending on conditions. This offers a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative to chemical detoxification methods currently used in the food industry.

From Nature to Design: Tailoring Pure Mycelial Materials for the Needs of Tomorrow

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Scientists are developing new materials made from mushroom mycelium that could replace leather, foam, and plastic products. These fungal-based materials grow on simple agricultural waste, are completely biodegradable, and have a much smaller environmental footprint than traditional materials. Companies like MycoWorks are already producing mycelium leather for major fashion brands, showing this technology is moving from laboratories into real products.

Indigenizing fungal biotechnology for planetary health: an opinion paper

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This paper proposes a framework for using fungi in sustainable ways that respects Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and rights. Rather than large corporations controlling fungal biotechnology, the authors suggest local communities should develop their own fungal products using local species and waste materials. By combining traditional Indigenous practices with modern biotechnology and digital tools, communities can grow food, medicines, and materials while protecting fungal biodiversity and sharing in the economic benefits.

Harnessing the Nutritional Value, Therapeutic Applications, and Environmental Impact of Mushrooms

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Mushrooms are nutritious superfoods packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. They contain special compounds that can fight inflammation, boost immunity, and help prevent serious diseases like cancer and diabetes. Beyond eating them, mushrooms are being used to make medicines, cosmetics, and animal feed, while also helping clean up polluted environments. Regular consumption of mushrooms offers significant health benefits and can be a valuable addition to any healthy diet.

Research Keyword: fungal biotechnology