Research Topic: Medicinal

Psilocybin induces long-lasting effects via 5-HT2A receptors in mouse models of chronic pain

Researchers found that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, significantly reduced chronic pain in mice through activation of specific serotonin receptors. The effects lasted for up to two weeks after a single dose, suggesting lasting changes in how the nervous system processes pain. This study suggests psilocybin could be a promising new treatment for chronic pain conditions like neuropathy and inflammation.

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Mitochondrial genome characterization, evolution and intron dynamics of the entomopathogenic genus Cordyceps

This research examined the genetic instruction manuals (mitochondrial DNA) of seven different Cordyceps fungal species. Scientists found that these fungi have varying amounts of genetic material, primarily due to differences in introns—sections that can be inserted or removed from genes. By comparing their genomes, researchers clarified how different Cordyceps species are related to each other evolutionarily, providing better tools for identifying and classifying these medically valuable fungi.

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The Effect of Supplementing Mushroom Growing Substrates on the Bioactive Compounds, Antimicrobial Activity, and Antioxidant Activity of Pleurotus ostreatus

This study investigated how adding wheat bran to mushroom growing substrates affects oyster mushroom quality and medicinal properties. The researchers found that wheat bran supplementation increased mushroom yield but slightly decreased antioxidant power, while the mushrooms produced antimicrobial compounds effective against various bacteria and fungi. The mushrooms contained beneficial compounds like vitamin E and phenols, suggesting they could be developed as natural alternatives to synthetic antibiotics.

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Proteins from Edible Mushrooms: Nutritional Role and Contribution to Well-Being

Mushrooms are nutritional powerhouses containing as much high-quality protein as meat and soybeans, with complete amino acid profiles needed for human health. Beyond basic nutrition, mushroom proteins possess remarkable healing properties including anti-cancer, immune-boosting, and blood pressure-lowering effects. These sustainable proteins are increasingly used in food fortification, sports supplements, and therapeutic medicines. Growing mushrooms as mycelium or using novel cultivation methods makes protein production faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly.

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Synthesis and bioactivity of psilocybin analogues containing a stable carbon–phosphorus bond

Researchers created new chemical versions of psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms) that cannot be broken down by the body’s natural enzymes in the same way. They tested these new compounds to see if they could help with depression and anxiety by targeting specific brain receptors. The best compound worked well on the intended brain receptors but importantly showed less activity on a heart-related receptor, potentially making it safer than natural psilocybin.

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Winning the battle of intestinal peace with Bacillus—a multifaceted approach to animal health, immunity, and future applications in monogastric livestock production

This review examines how Bacillus bacteria, when added to animal feed, can improve the health and growth of chickens and pigs. These bacteria work by producing beneficial compounds that strengthen the gut, improve digestion, reduce harmful bacteria, and boost the immune system. Bacillus probiotics offer a natural alternative to antibiotics, helping reduce antibiotic resistance while keeping animals healthier and more productive.

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The Role of Nutraceuticals and Probiotics in Addition to Lifestyle Intervention in the Management of Childhood Obesity—Part 1: Metabolic Changes

This review examines how natural compounds and beneficial bacteria can help obese children improve their metabolic health when combined with diet and exercise changes. Key findings show that supplements like white mulberry leaf extract and special fiber products can help reduce weight, improve blood sugar control, and lower cholesterol. The evidence suggests these natural interventions are promising but need more large-scale studies in children to confirm their effectiveness and optimal dosing.

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Bis(4-acetoxy-N-ethyl-N-n-propyltryptammonium) fumarate–fumaric acid (1/1)

Researchers determined the precise chemical structure of a synthetic compound related to psilocybin (the active ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms) using X-ray crystallography. The compound, 4-AcO-EPT, is designed to be converted in the body to a psychoactive substance with potential therapeutic benefits for depression and anxiety. The study resolved conflicting reports about the compound’s exact composition and molecular arrangement, showing it exists as a specific combination of three molecular components. This work demonstrates why chemists need to study actual crystal structures rather than relying solely on chemical calculations.

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Hype or hope? Ketamine for the treatment of depression: results from the application of deep learning to Twitter posts from 2010 to 2023

Researchers analyzed over 18,000 Twitter posts from 2010 to 2023 to understand what the public thinks about using ketamine to treat depression. They found that public opinion became much more positive after the FDA approved ketamine as a depression treatment in 2019. Most discussions consisted of personal stories from people who found ketamine helpful, especially those whose depression didn’t respond to other medications. While some people expressed caution and concerns, overall the public seems hopeful about ketamine’s potential.

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A Review of Synthetic Access to Therapeutic Compounds Extracted from Psilocybe

Scientists have discovered that magic mushrooms contain compounds called psilocybin and psilocin that show promise in treating depression and other psychiatric conditions. However, extracting enough of these compounds from mushrooms is difficult, so chemists have developed multiple ways to synthesize them in laboratories. This review examines different chemical and biological methods for producing these therapeutic compounds, from traditional synthesis techniques to modern approaches using special catalysts and enzymes, making these medicines more accessible for clinical research.

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