This research discovered that compounds from the edible mushroom Auricularia auricula can help prevent obesity by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. The study found that polysaccharides from this mushroom specifically increase a helpful bacteria called Papillibacter cinnamivorans, which helps reduce weight gain and improve metabolism. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides evidence that eating certain mushrooms may help with weight management • Identifies a new probiotic bacteria that could be developed into weight loss supplements • Demonstrates how dietary choices can positively influence gut bacteria • Offers potential new natural approaches for treating obesity • Suggests mushroom extracts could be developed into prebiotic supplements