Fungal Species:  Wolfiporia cocos

The Role of Wolfiporia cocos (F. A. Wolf) Ryvarden and Gilb. Polysaccharides in Regulating the Gut Microbiota and Its Health Benefits

Wolfiporia cocos, a fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years, contains polysaccharides that act as prebiotics to improve gut health. These polysaccharides promote the growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful ones, increase production of healthy metabolites, and strengthen the intestinal barrier. By improving gut microbiota composition, these polysaccharides can help prevent and treat various diseases including obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory conditions.

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Genome-Wide SSR Markers Reveal Genetic Diversity and Establish a Core Collection for Commercial Hypsizygus marmoreus Germplasm

Researchers developed a streamlined genetic database for beech mushrooms (H. marmoreus) by analyzing 57 strains and identifying genetic markers. They selected 24 representative strains that capture all the genetic diversity of the larger collection, making breeding programs more efficient. Each strain received a unique molecular ID code similar to a genetic barcode for easy identification and authentication in commercial breeding and cultivation.

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The Nearly Complete Genome of Grifola frondosa and Light-Induced Genes Screened Based on Transcriptomics Promote the Production of Triterpenoid Compounds

Researchers sequenced the complete genetic code of maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) and discovered how light exposure influences the production of beneficial compounds called triterpenoids. The high-quality genome assembly revealed 12,526 genes and showed that light triggers specific genes involved in making these medicinal compounds. This breakthrough provides a scientific foundation for growing maitake mushrooms with optimized levels of health-promoting substances.

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Biological Activities of Secondary Metabolites from the Edible-Medicinal Macrofungi

This comprehensive review examines over 270 bioactive compounds from edible and medicinal mushrooms, showing they have remarkable potential to treat various diseases. These mushroom-derived substances demonstrate effectiveness against cancer, diabetes, inflammation, and infections while having fewer side effects than conventional drugs. Families like reishi and shiitake mushrooms are particularly rich sources of these healing compounds. The research suggests mushrooms are valuable natural resources for developing new therapeutic treatments.

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The complete mitochondrial genome of medicinally important wood-decaying fungus Tyromyces fissilis within the family Incrustoporiaceae, Polyporales

Scientists have sequenced the complete genetic blueprint of a wood-rotting mushroom called Tyromyces fissilis for the first time. This fungus is medicinally important and has the ability to break down wood and produce therapeutic compounds. By analyzing its mitochondrial genome and comparing it with related fungi, researchers found that it is most closely related to another fungus called Phlebia radiata and belongs to a previously understudied fungal family. This genetic information will help scientists better understand how these fungi are related and may lead to new medical applications.

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The First Whole Genome Sequence and Methylation Profile of Gerronema lapidescens QL01

Scientists have sequenced the complete genome of Lei Wan (Gerronema lapidescens), a medicinal mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating parasitic infections and digestive problems. The research reveals the mushroom’s genetic blueprint, including genes responsible for producing beneficial compounds and adapting to rocky mountain environments. This foundational work aims to enable sustainable cultivation of this rare fungus and development of new medicinal treatments, addressing current conservation threats from over-harvesting.

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Fermentation of cocoa pod husks with Pleurotus salmoneo-stramineus for food applications

Researchers found a way to transform cocoa pod husks, a major waste product from cocoa production, into a nutritious food ingredient by fermenting them with a special mushroom fungus. The fermented product had nearly triple the protein content of the original husks and maintained high fiber levels, making it comparable to meat in protein quality. This innovation could help cocoa farmers create additional income while reducing waste and supporting more sustainable cocoa production.

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Insights into microbiome-triterpenoid correlation in Poria cocos via comparative analysis of sclerotial and soil microenvironments

This study explores how the medicinal mushroom Poria cocos creates its own special microbial environment inside its sclerotium (the part used in medicine). Researchers found that the mushroom selectively enriches certain bacteria and fungi while maintaining lower overall microbial diversity compared to surrounding soil. The study reveals that specific microbes like Burkholderia and Scytalidium are positively associated with the production of pachymic acid, the mushroom’s key medicinal compound with anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties.

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A Chromosome-Scale Genome of Trametes versicolor and Transcriptome-Based Screening for Light-Induced Genes That Promote Triterpene Biosynthesis

Scientists created a detailed map of the Trametes versicolor mushroom’s genetic code using advanced sequencing technologies. This medicinal mushroom is known for cancer-fighting and immune-boosting properties. The research discovered that light exposure increases the production of beneficial compounds called triterpenes, which may explain how this mushroom’s medicinal qualities work and could help scientists grow it more effectively.

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Microbial decay of wooden structures: actors, activities and means of protection

Wood is an increasingly popular sustainable building material, but fungi and bacteria can cause significant damage to wooden structures. This review explains how different types of fungi and bacteria decay wood through various mechanisms, describes advanced DNA methods to identify these microorganisms, and outlines practical strategies to protect wood. By combining proper design, chemical treatments, and wood modification techniques, builders can extend the lifespan of wooden structures while maintaining environmental sustainability.

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