Research Topic: Medicinal

Striking long-term beneficial effects of single dose psilocybin and psychedelic mushroom extract in the SAPAP3 rodent model of OCD-like excessive self-grooming

Researchers tested whether psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms) could treat obsessive-compulsive disorder using genetically modified mice that exhibit excessive grooming similar to OCD in humans. A single dose of psilocybin or psychedelic mushroom extract significantly reduced the excessive grooming behavior and anxiety in these mice, with benefits lasting up to six weeks. These findings suggest psilocybin may be a promising new treatment for OCD in humans, offering longer-lasting effects from a single dose compared to current medications.

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Effects of Cordyceps militaris solid medium on the growth performance, immunity parameters and intestinal health of broilers

This research shows that a byproduct from growing Cordyceps militaris mushrooms can be used as a feed additive for chickens. When added at low doses to chicken feed, this mushroom byproduct improved the chickens’ growth, boosted their immune system, and created a healthier gut environment with beneficial bacteria. This offers a natural, non-antibiotic option for improving poultry farming.

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Safety, feasibility, tolerability, and clinical effects of repeated psilocybin dosing combined with non-directive support in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: protocol for a randomized, waitlist-controlled trial with blinded ratings

This clinical trial is investigating whether psilocybin (a psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms) combined with supportive counseling can help people with treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder. Researchers will give participants two doses of psilocybin while providing non-directive psychological support to help them process their experiences. The study aims to determine whether this approach is safe, tolerable, and effective at reducing OCD symptoms, and to understand the psychological mechanisms that might explain how it works.

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rFIP-GMI Suppresses IGF-1–Induced Invasion and Migration in Breast Cancer Cells via PI3K/Akt/β-Catenin Inhibition

Researchers found that a protein from a medicinal mushroom called Ganoderma microsporum can fight aggressive breast cancer by blocking a cellular pathway that helps cancer cells spread. The protein works by stopping the activation of key molecules (PI3K and Akt) that cancer cells use to invade surrounding tissues and migrate to other parts of the body. By blocking this pathway, the mushroom protein also prevents another molecule called β-catenin from entering the cell nucleus, where it would trigger genes that promote cancer growth and spread.

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Valorization and Environmental Impacts of Pecan Waste: A Critical Review

Pecan shells, which make up about half of the pecan nut and are usually discarded, contain valuable compounds with health-promoting properties like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. These shells can be transformed into useful products including ingredients for food supplements and medicines, activated carbon for cleaning water, materials for making eco-friendly plastics, and energy sources. By converting pecan waste into valuable products instead of throwing it away, communities can reduce environmental pollution, improve public health, and create economic opportunities while supporting sustainable farming practices.

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Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Psilocybe Mushrooms: Gaps and Perspectives

This comprehensive review examined what we know about Psilocybe mushrooms, which are known for their mind-altering effects due to compounds called psilocybin and psilocin. The study found that while these mushrooms show promise for treating depression and anxiety, most research has focused only on their psychoactive properties. The review identified over 30 chemical compounds in these mushrooms and noted that some species show potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The authors emphasize that much more research is needed to explore other potential health benefits and to understand exactly how individual compounds work in the body.

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Identification of a pathogen causing fruiting body rot of Sanghuangporus vaninii

Sanghuang, a valuable medicinal mushroom grown in China, was suffering from a disease that damaged fruiting bodies and reduced production. Researchers identified the cause as a green mold fungus called Trichoderma virens. The fungus grows best at 25°C and strongly inhibits the mushroom’s growth. Understanding this pathogen is the first step toward developing better ways to prevent the disease and protect this important medicinal crop.

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Marine-Derived Enterococcus faecalis HY0110 as a Next-Generation Functional Food Probiotic: Comprehensive In Vitro and In Vivo Bioactivity Evaluation and Synergistic Fermentation of Periplaneta americana Extract Powder

Scientists discovered a beneficial bacteria called Enterococcus faecalis HY0110 from bluefin tuna that could help protect gut health and fight harmful pathogens better than current probiotics. This marine bacteria produces important compounds like acetic acid that kill disease-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease, and even slows cancer cell growth. When fermented with cockroach powder, it creates powerful health-boosting compounds that could make functional foods more effective for managing digestive diseases and supporting overall wellness.

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Developmental Neurotoxicity Screen of Psychedelics and Other Drugs of Abuse in Larval Zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Researchers tested 13 mind-altering drugs on developing zebrafish to see if they cause birth defects or behavioral problems. They found that psychedelics like psilocybin and ketamine were relatively safe for developing organisms, but traditional drugs of abuse like cocaine and methamphetamine caused significant behavioral changes without obvious physical defects. The study provides important safety information for these compounds, especially for pregnant or nursing individuals considering their use for therapeutic purposes.

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