Medicinal – Page 43

Hydrophobin Gene Cmhyd4 Negatively Regulates Fruiting Body Development in Edible Fungi Cordyceps militaris

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Scientists studied a gene called Cmhyd4 in Cordyceps militaris, an edible medicinal mushroom. By removing this gene, they found that the mushroom produced more fruiting bodies with higher levels of beneficial compounds like carotenoids and adenosine. This discovery could help mushroom farmers grow better quality mushrooms with improved nutritional value through selective breeding.

Assessment of Cosmetic Properties and Safety of Use of Model Washing Gels with Reishi, Maitake and Lion’s Mane Extracts

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Researchers tested three medicinal mushrooms (Maitake, Lion’s Mane, and Reishi) as ingredients in washing gels to improve their safety and effectiveness. The study found that these mushroom extracts reduced skin irritation, improved skin moisturization, and boosted antioxidant protection better than gels without them. Maitake extract performed particularly well, showing the strongest antioxidant properties. These findings suggest mushroom extracts could be valuable natural alternatives in everyday skincare products.

Sex-specific role of the 5-HT2A receptor in psilocybin-induced extinction of opioid reward

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Researchers discovered that a single dose of psilocybin can reduce opioid addiction-related behaviors in male mice by activating serotonin receptors in specific brain circuits, but this effect does not work the same way in females. The study reveals that psilocybin changes how the brain processes opioid rewards and withdrawal symptoms, suggesting psychedelics could become a new treatment approach for opioid addiction. However, important sex differences in how the brain responds mean treatments may need to be tailored differently for men and women.

Chromosome-Scale Genome and Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal Differential Regulation of Terpenoid Secondary Metabolites in Hericium coralloides

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Researchers sequenced the complete genome of Hericium coralloides, an edible medicinal mushroom, at the chromosome level for the first time. They identified genes responsible for producing terpenoids, which are beneficial compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. The study found that these beneficial compounds are produced in higher amounts in the mushroom’s mycelium (root-like structure) compared to fruiting bodies, which could help optimize mushroom cultivation for medicinal use.

New and emerging pharmacologic treatments for MDD

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Major depressive disorder affects millions worldwide and current antidepressants often don’t work well or take weeks to be effective. Researchers have developed exciting new treatments that work through different brain mechanisms and show promise for rapid symptom relief. These include nasal spray ketamine (approved 2019), oral medications like zuranolone (approved 2023), and investigational treatments including psilocybin, which show benefits especially for treatment-resistant cases. While many show great promise, more research is needed on long-term safety and how to make them widely available.

Ketamine, Psychedelics, and Psychotherapy: Reframing, Redefining, Renaming Treatment Models

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This paper addresses confusion about how ketamine and psychedelics are being used to treat mental health conditions like depression and PTSD. The authors propose new clear definitions to distinguish whether these drugs are used alone for their chemical effects, combined with established talk therapies, or used to create experiences that are then processed in therapy. Using these clearer definitions will help patients, doctors, and regulators better understand what treatments involve and make more informed decisions.

The Immune Mind: Linking Dietary Patterns, Microbiota, and Psychological Health

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This review shows that what we eat significantly affects our mental health through our gut bacteria and immune system. Mediterranean-style diets rich in vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help reduce depression and anxiety symptoms. Conversely, ultra-processed foods with added sugars and artificial ingredients increase the risk of mental health problems. Specific probiotic supplements may also provide modest benefits for mood by promoting beneficial gut bacteria.

The treasured giants: a current overview on agricultural, nutritional, bioactive, and economic potential of Macrocybe Species (Agaricales, Basidiomycota)

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Macrocybe mushrooms are giant edible fungi found in tropical regions worldwide that offer significant nutritional and health benefits. These mushrooms can be cultivated using agricultural waste materials like sawdust and straw, making them an economical crop. Rich in proteins, fibers, vitamins, and medicinal compounds, they possess antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties that could benefit human health.

Lactic acid bacteria: beyond fermentation to bio-protection against fungal spoilage and mycotoxins in food systems

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Mold and fungal toxins spoil food and threaten human health, costing billions globally. While chemical preservatives work, many consumers want natural alternatives. Lactic acid bacteria (the same organisms used in yogurt production) produce natural antimicrobial compounds that can prevent mold growth and neutralize harmful toxins, offering a safer, more natural way to keep food fresh longer.

Corrigendum: Ayahuasca-induced personal death experiences: prevalence, characteristics, and impact on attitudes toward death, life, and the environment

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This article corrects errors in a research study about ayahuasca, a traditional plant medicine. The study examined how experiences with ayahuasca that involve confronting death affect people’s attitudes about mortality, the environment, and life fulfillment. The corrections clarify how often participants used ayahuasca and adjust how the data was visualized in graphs, but the main findings about ayahuasca’s effects remain unchanged.

Research Topic: Medicinal