Fungi naturally produce many compounds that kill harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This review explores how these fungal compounds could replace antibiotics that no longer work due to drug resistance. These natural substances could be used not only as medicines but also in cosmetic products to prevent bacterial growth and improve skin health.
This comprehensive review examines how medicinal mushrooms contain natural compounds that can boost immune function, fight cancer cells, reduce inflammation, and protect nerve cells. Different mushroom species like reishi, shiitake, and maitake contain various active substances such as beta-glucans and triterpenes that work through multiple biological pathways. While laboratory and animal studies show promising results, more human clinical trials are needed to confirm effectiveness and establish safe dosing guidelines.
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.
Researchers developed a way to improve button mushroom production using a beneficial bacterium treated with calcium chloride. This treatment boosts the bacteria’s ability to reduce ethylene, a natural plant hormone that causes mushrooms to age quickly. The treated mushrooms showed 23% higher yields and stayed fresh for at least three weeks in storage without browning, making them more appealing to consumers.
This review examines how edible mushrooms, particularly Lion’s mane, Reishi, and Caterpillar mushroom, might help treat depression as part of a dietary approach. These mushrooms contain compounds that may influence brain chemistry, especially serotonin levels, which are important for mood regulation. While early studies show promising results, especially for Lion’s mane, more research is needed to confirm these benefits in larger groups of patients.
King oyster mushrooms are susceptible to green mold caused by various Trichoderma fungi, which significantly reduces crop yields. Researchers developed a quick DNA test that can detect these harmful fungi in mushroom farms before they cause major damage. The test is sensitive enough to identify the fungus even when present in very small amounts mixed with mushroom tissue. This new detection tool will help mushroom farmers monitor their crops and prevent costly contamination losses.
Researchers tested 64 types of mushroom strains to find which grows the strongest mycelial mats for making eco-friendly materials to replace plastic and other fossil fuel products. They discovered that Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal mushroom, produces especially thick and strong mycelium that can be grown at large scales. By using the right nutrients like glycerol and skim milk, they were able to grow large sheets of mushroom material that could potentially be used for packaging, furniture, and other products instead of traditional plastics.
Scientists in India developed standard protocols for growing King Oyster mushrooms (Kabul Dhingri) in subtropical regions. They tested different types of straw, sterilization methods, and planting densities to find the best conditions for maximum yield. Paddy straw provided the best results, while chemical sterilization and a 5% spawn rate worked best. These findings help farmers grow nutritious protein-rich mushrooms efficiently using agricultural waste.
Researchers screened 210 mushroom species from Japan to find those that could prevent harmful protein clumping in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. They identified a purified fraction from the mushroom Elfvingia applanata that was more effective than a known anti-Alzheimer’s compound at stopping these protein clumps from forming. The extract also protected nerve cells from damage in laboratory tests. This finding suggests mushrooms could potentially be developed into a functional food to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Mushrooms are nutritious foods that contain beneficial compounds like β-glucans and polysaccharides which can help wounds heal faster. These compounds work by activating immune cells and promoting collagen production, which are essential for skin repair. Research shows that mushroom extracts from species like Ganoderma lucidum and Hericium erinaceus can accelerate wound closure in experimental models and may benefit diabetic wound care and burn treatment.