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Introduction: Mushroom toxicity is an important etiology of acute liver injury in a patient with gastrointestinal symptoms.Case Report: We present the case of a male patient presenting to the emergency department (ED) with gastrointestinal distress who was placed under ED observation for elevated liver function tests. During his hospital course, it was revealed he had consumed wild mushrooms believed to be Amanita phalloides.Conclusion: While mushroom ingestion and subsequent toxicity are rare, a high index of suspicion in foraging hobbyists is essential to arriving at the correct diagnosis and directing the patient to the appropriate management.

Mushrooms produce a great variety of defense chemical compounds to protect themselves from fungivores. Alpha‐amanitin is one of such compounds found in some Amanita mushrooms. The present study focuses on the effect of α‐amanitin on adult survival in 17 drosophilid species including mycophagous ones from the subgenus Drosophila and the genus Hirtodrosophila and nonmycophagous ones of the subgenera Drosophila, Siphlodora and Sophophora. The results showed that all the essential fungivores and some partially mycophagous species from different lineages are tolerant to this lethal toxin at a concentration of 50 μg/mL, suggesting that the α‐amanitin tolerance may have been acquired more or less independently of the evolution of mycophagy in the family Drosophilidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushroom is a macrofungus with precious fruiting body, as a food, a tonic, and a medicine, human have discovered and used mushrooms for thousands of years. Nowadays, mushroom is also a "super food" recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and favored by consumers. Discrimination of mushroom including species, geographic origin, storage time, etc., is an important prerequisite to ensure their edible safety and commodity quality. Moreover, the effective evaluation of its chemical composition can help us better understand the nutritional properties of mushrooms. Modern analytical technologies such as chromatography, spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, etc., are widely used in the discrimination and evaluation researches of mushrooms, and chemometrics is an effective means of scientifically processing the multidimensional information hidden in these analytical technologies. This review will outline the latest applications of modern analytical technology combined with chemometrics in qualitative and quantitative analysis and quality control of mushrooms in recent years. Briefly describe the basic principles of these technologies, and the analytical processes of common chemometrics in mushroom researches will be summarized. Finally, the limitations and application prospects of chromatography, spectroscopy and mass spectrometry technology are discussed in mushroom quality control and evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wolfiporia cocos is commonly used as a traditional Chinese medicine for its diuretic, tonifying, and invigorating effects on the spleen. However, the epidermis of W. cocos is discarded as scrap during harvesting because of its low price, resulting in a great waste of resources and environmental pollution. In this work, the epidermis of W. cocos was studied and three new lanostane triterpenoids were isolated. The structures were determined using NMR and HRESIMS, with absolute configurations established by comparison of the calculated and experimental ECD spectra. The three new compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activities in vitro against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. None of the tested compounds showed inhibition against these three strains of indicator microbes at a concentration of 128 μg/ml. This study provides a reference for further medicinal development and the utilization of the epidermis of W. cocos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pleurotus, a significant contributor, offers a comprehensive solution to malnutrition, food insecurity, health issues, unemployment, and ecological imbalances. Pleurotus species are known for their nutritional, edible, therapeutic, enzymatic, and adaptive capabilities, effectively utilising many agro-industrial wastes. Their production and consumption rates are steadily increasing, providing delicacy and natural immune-boosting services to communities. Moreover, Pleurotus plays a role in the fight against viral infectious diseases, including Covid-19. The strong enzymatic system of Pleurotus species aids in bioremediating harsh pollutants, sustaining ecological balance in ways not achievable by other saprophytic, cultivable edible mushrooms. With its temperature tolerance and ability to grow on various substrates, Pleurotus emerges as the most suitable economic agricultural crop. It can be adopted as a cottage industry, offering self-employment opportunities without requiring substantial capital investment. This review aims to elucidate the nutritional, medicinal, environmental, and economic values of Pleurotus species, highlighting their potential to support life on Earth and the planet itself, as well as their role in promoting environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal macrofungi, like prized plants and animals, have dietary, therapeutic and commercial significance. This knowledge, anchored in the traditional healthcare system, warrants the identification of the most prominent species harbouring novel natural products. A traditional ethnobiological approach was adopted to collect ethnomycological data by interviewing 110 informants (95 men and 15 women) inhabiting 10 settlements in Bannu District, Pakistan. Visiting the remote nomadic sites revealed the most unique data of its type. This data was assessed and correlated with previous studies, comparing the standard numerical indices: informant consensus factor, fidelity level, use value, relative frequency of citation and Jaccard index. Tradition medicinal uses of 30 species of wild macrofungi (belonging to 19 genera and 12 families) are documented here. Podaxis pistillaris macrofungi was preference ranked with priority therapeutic uses, medicinally for stomach problems, as an antipyretic, for erotic uses, as an immune booster and as an antidiabetic; it is also nutritionally significant. Temperature and humidity are key factors for the growth of macrofungi generally in Pakistan (in spring and during the monsoon season), while the dynamic frequency of rain in the rainy season due to the impact of climate change cannot be neglected. Indigenous communities divided the ethnomycological potential of macrofungi into three main clusters: (a) edible macrofungi, for treating various disorders and as nutritional supplements; (b) non-edible macrofungi, medicinally important or just poisonous; (c) unknown or unused, without any known utility. Importantly, eight novel species with traditional uses are reported here, and the present work is the first ethnomycological study of macrofungi from Pakistan. This research aims to trace the traditional knowledge related to the naturally occurring medicinal macrofungi in the Bannu District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Documentation of new medicinal species and novel uses of existing species reflect a healthy relationship between inhabitants of the Bannu District and wild medicinal macrofungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Pleurotus species are edible mushrooms with important economic and medicinal value. Many pharmacological properties of these species, such as anticancer, immunomodulating, and anti-inflammatory activities, have been attributed to lectin. The aim of this study was to purify a novel lectin from Pleurotus eryngii var. ferulae (PEFL) and investigate its anti-inflammatory activity. Methods: PEFL was purified by 80% ammonium sulphate fractionation, diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-Sepharose-4B anion exchange, and Sephadex G-100 gel filtration chromatography. The molar mass of the purified lectin was determined by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) under denaturing conditions. Inhibition of lectin-induced haemagglutination by several carbohydrates and one glycoprotein (ovalbumin) was also performed using the haemagglutination inhibition activity test. The anti-inflammatory effect of PEFL was tested in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation model in mouse macrophage cells (RAW 264.7). The levels of prostaglandin (PG)-E2, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin1-beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Furthermore, the expression of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was estimated by western blot analysis. Results: PEFL was obtained in 16% yield. The specific activity of PEFL was calculated as 1280 haemagglutinating units (HU)/mg protein and was inhibited only by D-galactose. The molecular weight was determined to be 46 kDa. PEFL showed an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory PGs through COX-2 inhibition, as well as reducing iNOS expression. Furthermore, our findings reported that PEFL has a protective effect on inflammation by decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10). Conclusion: The results suggest that PEFL can be considered as a potential therapeutic agent in the development of new therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Berk.), a Himalayan bioresource, has garnered considerable scientific and industrial interest due to the presence of numerous bioactive metabolites and extensive biological activities. However, O. sinensis demand and supply are extremely dependent on natural populations, raising conservation concerns. In the preceding years, numerous biotechnological interventions have been adopted for the artificial cultivation of O. sinensis to develop alternative and sustainable methods for reducing the stress on its natural populations; however, the cultivation of O. sinensis is limited. Literature exploration revealed that H. sinensis and other associated fungi have been utilized to cope with the increased O. sinensis demand. Additionally, O. sinensis culture-based products are being extensively used in various therapeutics and dietary supplements. Thus, the present article offers comprehensive insights into the current literature, research gaps, and future prospects on cultivation techniques with enriched bioactive metabolites for developing potential quality products of O. sinensis. In addition, a catalog of commercially available O. sinensis mycelial products is provided. Besides, we are highlighting the nutritional potential of O. sinensis with emphasis on patent search, available market products, and their labeling for end users. During the product assessment, a non-uniformity of the product labeling is observed as far as the bioactive components are concerned. Thus, it emerged as a major challenge and responsibility for manufacturers to produce high-quality products to meet the expectations of consumers. Keeping in view the demand, the nutraceutical industry must implement policies, regulations, and proper tactics of promotion and production for delivering apt nutrition and health benefits. [Display omitted] • Heavy metals accumulation in wild OS encourages cultured market products. • Non-invasive production methods can be employed for metabolite enhancement. • Majority of market products are devoid of active ingredients. • Bioactive metabolites, bioavailability, and authenticity must be prime requisites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a potentially fatal clinical condition that results from an immune imbalance in the host during an infection. It presents systemic alterations due to excessive activation of pro-inflammatory mediators that contribute to inflammation, formation of reactive species, and tissue damage. Anti-inflammatory mediators are then extensively activated to regulate this process, leading to immune exhaustion and, consequently, immunosuppression of the host. Considering the biological activities of the nutraceutical Agaricus brasiliensis (A. brasiliensis), such as immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and antitumor activities, the present study investigated the therapeutic potential of the lipid fraction of A. brasiliensis (LF) in a model of lethal sepsis in mice (Mus musculus), induced by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP). The results showed that treatment of septic animals with LF or LF associated with ertapenem (LF-Erta) reduced systemic inflammation, promoting improvement in clinical parameters and increased survival. The data show a reduction in pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, regulation of the anti-inflammatory response and oxidizing agents, and increased bacterial clearance in the peritoneal cavity and liver. Thus, it can be concluded that LF as a treatment, and in conjunction with antibiotic therapy, has shown promising effects as a hepatoprotective, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Mushroom waste can account for up to 50% of the total mushroom mass. Spent mushroom substrate, misshapen mushrooms, and mushroom stems are examples of mushroom byproducts. In ancient cultures, fungi were prized for their medicinal properties. Aqueous extracts containing high levels of β-glucans as functional components capable of providing prebiotic polysaccharides and improved texture to foods have been widely used and new methods have been tested to improve extraction yields. Similarly, the addition of insoluble polysaccharides controls the glycemic index, counteracting the effects of increasingly high-calorie diets. Numerous studies support these benefits in vitro , but evidence in vivo is scarce. Nonetheless, many authors have created a variety of functional foods, ranging from yogurt to noodles. In this review, we focus on the pharmacological properties of edible mushroom by-products, and the possible risks derived from its consumption. By incorporating these by-products into human or animal feed formulations, mushroom producers will be able to fully optimize crop use and pave the way for the industry to move toward a zero-waste paradigm. • The edible mushroom industry generates recoverable byproducts due to the wide variety of bioactive components of mushrooms. • Mushroom stems are rich in polysaccharides with prebiotic and antiglycemic properties. • The by-products can be used in the formulation of functional foods, natural flavor enhancers and thickening agents. • Feeds supplemented with mushroom stems improve intestinal health in aquaculture and livestock farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocomposites made via electrospinning were constructed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitin. Chitin was extracted from a natural source (Fomes fomentarius), which allowed for precise control of the chemical properties of the resulting material. Chitin was chosen as a filler due to its low cost and widespread availability. Increasing the degree of acetylation of the chitin increased the Young's Modulus of the resulting fiber mats but only at relatively high levels. While composites at lower acetylation levels were stable, no increase in the Young's Modulus was observed, presumably due to decreased intermolecular bonding among fibers. The results suggest that precise control of the degree of acetylation of chitin, more than the loading amount and dispersibility, significantly impacts composite formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-specificity of conventional cancer drugs imposes a significant obstacle in cancer treatment, so the development of a safe anti-cancer alternative by methodologically revisiting several traditional medicinal systems may be a possible way to get rid of this problem. Therefore, the present study evaluates the anti-cancer potentiality of one of the Asiatic and African regions' widely popular edible and ethnobotanically significant termite mushroom, Termitomyces heimii Natarajan (T. heimii), against various cancers. The anti-proliferative and chemo-preventive potentiality of two different extracts of T. heimii was evaluated against a panel of eight cancer cell lines and normal cells through an MTT assay. In vitro screening highlights that the methanolic extract of T. heimii had the highest anti-proliferative potential against A549 cells and had a negligible effect on normal cells. The extract specifically induced robust apoptosis in A549 cells through augmentation of intracellular ROS, disrupting mitochondrial membrane polarity, thus ultimately resulting in caspase-dependent apoptosis in lung cancer cells. Post-treatment, down-regulation of anti-apoptotic BCL-2 coordinated up-regulation of BAX expression, and an elevated expression of p53 signified the p53-dependent apoptosis. Moreover, the mushroom extract restricted cellular migration in the palladin-dependent pathway by downregulating the expression of PALLADIN. LC-MS-based metabolomic profiling was conducted to identify the potential anti-cancer mycocompounds in the methanol extract. The metabolomic profiling analysis, followed by an in silico molecular docking study, identified a unique mycosterol, neoergosterol, as a possible anti-cancer compound in the mushroom extract. The present study concludes a novel mycocompound neoergosterol resourcing from Termitomyces heimii Natarajan, demonstrating selective robust apoptosis against non-small cell lung cancer cells and also provides a chemoprotective shield against normal cells, which holds great promise for future drug development to treat lung cancer. [Display omitted] • Introducing a novel wild edible mushroom, Termitomyces heimii Natarajan, to the mycophagy communities of Asia and Africa, emphasizing its anti-cancer effect against lung cancer. • The Neoergosterol-rich mushroom extract significantly attenuated lung cancer progression by modulating the p53 pathway, resulting in ROS-substantiated, caspase-dependent, robust apoptosis in lung cancer cells. • The unique mycocompound neoergosterol also restricts cancer spreading by downregulating the expression of one of the crucial cytoskeleton modulators, palladin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms have garnered significant attention for their nutritional composition and potential health benefits, including antioxidant, antihypertensive, and cholesterol‐lowering properties. This review explores the nutritional composition of edible mushrooms, including their high protein content, essential amino acids, low fat, cholesterol levels, and bioactive compounds with medicinal value. Moreover, the study analyzes the microbiology of mushroom fermentation, focusing on the diverse microbial ecosystem involved in the transformation of raw mushrooms and the preservation methods employed to extend their shelf life. Special emphasis is placed on lactic acid fermentation as a cost‐effective and efficient preservation technique. It involves controlling the growth of lactic acid bacteria to enhance the microbial stability and nutritional quality of mushrooms. Furthermore, the bioactivities of fermented mushrooms are elucidated, which are antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti‐glycemic, immune modulatory, and other biological activities. The mechanisms underlying these bioactivities are explored, emphasizing the role of fermented mushrooms in suppressing free radicals, enhancing antioxidant defenses, and modulating immune responses. Overall, this review provides comprehensive insights into the nutritional composition, microbiology, bioactivities, and underlying mechanisms of fermented mushrooms, highlighting their potential as functional foods with significant health‐promoting properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classifying fungus based on morphological traits is an effective strategy to distinguish between puffballs, earthballs, earthstars, and other gasteroid fungi, as well as for identifying sub-groups of closely related taxon. However, to delimitate taxa it should be addressed with caution, since cryptic species have been described recently in different genera of gasteroid fungi. Astraeus is a star-shaped fungus that has piqued the interest of mycologists worldwide, including India. These endearing fungi have tremendous nutritional and therapeutic benefits, but their molecular and phylogenetic placement in India is uncertain. An integrative taxonomic approach was used to identify and resolve ambiguities within the genus. This study, the first to elucidate the distribution, taxonomy, and phylogeny of the genus Astraeus in the mixed subtropical Pinus-Shorea forest and tropical dry deciduous Shorea dominated forest in India, aims to shed light on these indispensable ectomycorrhizal fungi. The phylogenetic analysis assigned all thirteen ITS DNA barcoding Indian sequences of Astraeus to the Southeast Asian clade, reinforcing the genus Southeast Asian origin. Detailed species descriptions, line diagrams, SEM images of basidiospores, ITS nrDNA based phylogeny, and a dichotomous key are provided. Mycoobservations of the taxon from Pinus-Shorea subtropical and Shorea-dominated forests were additionally reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycelium-based composites are a promising avenue for innovating sustainable materials from the hyphae of fungi. This study focuses on the use of fibers from four local fungal species, namely, Pleurotus ostreatus, Pleurotus sajor-caju (Fr. Singer), Auricularia auricula-judae, and Schizophyllum commune Fr., to produce mycelium-based composites from water hyacinth. An inoculum of each of the mushroom species was cultivated on PDA medium at 25 and 30 °C to determine the optimal temperature based on the growth rate. The obtained optimal condition was used to grow the fungi on water hyacinth (WH) mixed with rice bran in different proportions (100% WH, 70% WH, and 50% WH) with various numbers of fungal inocula (10, 20, and 30 plugs). The obtained composites were coated with a solution of either starch, chitosan, or epoxy resin. Schizophyllum commune Fr. exhibited the highest growth rate and fiber density, with a growth rate of 1.45 ± 1.92 mm/day at 30 °C. Ten inocula of Schizophyllum commune Fr. incubated at 30 °C for seven days on a mixture of 50% WH and 50% rice bran gave the optimal composite. Coating the obtained composite with chitosan improved its mechanical properties, but coating it with epoxy resin improved its water absorbency. Buried in soil, the composite coated with a chitosan solution decomposed within 30 days. The results indicate that Schizophyllum commune Fr. can be used as a binder to produce mycelial composites on a substrate of WH mixed with rice bran. The implications of these results will enable the further development and tuning of mushroom-based materials, especially for the production of sustainable bio-construction materials derived from local mushrooms and bio-waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxins (AFs) are highly toxic mycotoxins produced by the fungi, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. AFs pose severe health risks owing to their acute toxicity and carcinogenic properties. The control of AF contamination remains significantly challenging despite the extensive efforts toward controlling it. Here, we investigated the potential of mushroom extracts as a source of AF biosynthetic inhibitors. The A. parasiticus mutant strain, NFRI-95, that accumulates an AF biosynthesis intermediate, norsolorinic acid, was used in the bioassay to detect the inhibitory activity against AF biosynthesis. The screening of 195 mushroom extracts revealed that the culture filtrate extract of Chondrostereum purpureum exhibited strong inhibitory activity against AF biosynthesis. Next, large-scale culturing of C. purpureum was performed to isolate the compounds accounting for the inhibitory activity. The culture filtrate was extracted with ethyl acetate, after which the active compound was isolated by silica gel column chromatography and preparative high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The active compound was identified as cyclo(Val–Pro) by spectroscopic analyses. Further, four stereoisomers of cyclo(Val–Pro) were synthesized by the condensation of the N -Boc derivatives of d - and l -valine with the methyl esters of d - and l -proline. The naturally isolated compound was identified as cyclo(l -Val- l -Pro) by comparing its retention time with those of synthetic compounds by chiral HPLC analysis and CD spectra. The IC 50 value of cyclo(L-Val-L-Pro) was 2.4 mM, whereas the LD, DL, and DD isomers exhibited weaker activities, with IC 50 values of >5 mM. • Aflatoxin (AF) biosynthesis inhibitors were explored using mushroom extracts. • An extract of Chondrostereum purpureum effectively inhibited AF biosynthesis. • Cyclo(l -valyl- l -proline) was isolated from the C. purpureum culture filtrate. • Four cyclo(Val–Pro) isomers were synthesized. • Cyclo(l -valyl- l -proline) showed the strongest inhibitory activity among the isomers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganoderma lucidum has had great importance in healthcare in the Chinese for many decades. Polysaccharides and triterpenoids are one of the most important components of G. lucidum. Biological evidence indicates that this mushroom can be a promising treatment in many cancer cases and reduce the toxic effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy if taken synchronously. This study highlights preparing an extract with therapeutic effects capable of removing free radicals and protecting cell membranes from hyperoxidation effects. The antitumor effect was evaluated on two types of cancer cell lines in vitro, Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HOSCC) and Human Skin Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HSSCC), at different concentrations 0.0-1600 µg/mL. Antioxidant by DPPH assay was assessed at concentrations from 0.0-500 µg/mL, in addition to their effects on cytogenetic indicators such as mitotic index (MI), blastogenic index (BI) and total chromosomal aberration (TCAs) for three types of extracts (ethanol extract, water extract and acidified water extract). The results recorded an increase in the antioxidant activity of the three extracts, and that the acidified water extract had the highest effect, reaching a killing rate of 78.53% for the acidified water extract on the HOSCC cell line. Chromosomal stability indicates that the three extracts enhanced the cytogenetics parameters and supported chromosomal stability by increasing both mitotic index (MI) and blastogenic index (BI), while reducing chromosomal aberrations.

Classifying fungus based on morphological traits is an effective strategy to distinguish between puffballs, earthballs, earthstars, and other gasteroid fungi, as well as for identifying sub-groups of closely related taxon. However, to delimitate taxa it should be addressed with caution, since cryptic species have been described recently in different genera of gasteroid fungi. Astraeus is a star-shaped fungus that has piqued the interest of mycologists worldwide, including India. These endearing fungi have tremendous nutritional and therapeutic benefits, but their molecular and phylogenetic placement in India is uncertain. An integrative taxonomic approach was used to identify and resolve ambiguities within the genus. This study, the first to elucidate the distribution, taxonomy, and phylogeny of the genus Astraeus in the mixed subtropical Pinus - Shorea forest and tropical dry deciduous Shorea dominated forest in India, aims to shed light on these indispensable ectomycorrhizal fungi. The phylogenetic analysis assigned all thirteen ITS DNA barcoding Indian sequences of Astraeus to the Southeast Asian clade, reinforcing the genus Southeast Asian origin. Detailed species descriptions, line diagrams, SEM images of basidiospores, ITS nrDNA based phylogeny, and a dichotomous key are provided. Mycoobservations of the taxon from Pinus - Shorea subtropical and Shorea -dominated forests were additionally reviewed.

Flammulina elastica is a white-rot basidiomycete fungus sheltered in the Northern Hemisphere. Although F. filiformis, popularly known as the enoki mushroom, is widely cultivated, few attempts have been made to produce F. elastica in South Asia. In this study, we examined the relationships between the taxa of Flammulina based on the ribosomal Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence and taxonomic characteristics. The morphological studies and ITS-based molecular results confirm the species as F. elastica. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that F. elastica belongs to a distinct clade. The species showed a large cap size and thick pileus with high fruit body weight. The lamellae of F. elastica are adnate, whitish to yellowish brown. The present study successfully standardised the cultivation technology of F. elastica under controlled growth conditions, with 18.6% biological efficiency on wheat straw-based substrate. The fruit bodies comprise 51.4% total carbohydrates and 24.5% protein on a dry weight basis. Higher β-glucan (47.3% w/w) was also reported in the fruit body, with considerable antioxidant activity. Moreover, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) studies revealed the presence of higher functional groups compared to F. filiformis. The experimental findings will popularise the cultivation of this mushroom in South Asian countries and temperate regions of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important developments in psychopharmacology in the past decade has been the emergence of novel treatments for mood disorders, such as psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. Psilocybin is most commonly found in different species of mushroom; however, the literature on mushroom and fungus extracts with potential antidepressant activity extends well beyond just psilocybin-containing mushrooms, and includes both psychedelic and non-psychedelic species. In the current review, we systematically review the preclinical literature on mushroom and fungus extracts, and their effects of animal models of depression and tests of antidepressant activity. The PICO structure, PRISMA checklist and the Cochrane Handbook for systematic reviews of intervention were used to guide the search strategy. A scoping search was conducted in electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL, Embase and Web of Science. The literature search identified 50 relevant and suitable published studies. These included 19 different species of mushrooms, as well as seven different species of other fungi. Nearly all studies reported antidepressant-like effects of treatment with extracts. Treatments were most commonly delivered orally, in both acute and chronically administered studies to predominantly male rodents. Multiple animal models of depression were used, the most common being unpredictable chronic mild stress, while the tail suspension test and forced swim test were most frequently used as standalone antidepressant screens. Details on each experiment with mushroom and fungus species are discussed in detail, while an evaluation is provided of the strengths and weaknesses of these studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganoderma Karst., a rot causing and lignin degrading genus of wild mushrooms exhibits remarkable variability in the basidiome morphology often leading to inconclusive species identification by conventional taxonomic procedure. Present study by making use of integrated morpho-anatomical and molecular approach of identification, recorded G. leucocontextum as a new addition to the wild mushroom flora of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum species is one of the most devastating diseases of fruits and crops. We isolated and identified an antifungal compound from the mushroom Coprinus comatus and investigated its inhibitory potential against anthracnose disease-causing fungi with the goal of discovering natural products that can suppress anthracnose-caused plant disease. Methods and results The culture filtrate of C. comatus was subjected to a bioassay-guided isolation of antifungal compounds. The active compound was identified as orsellinaldehyde (2,4-dihydroxy-6-methylbenzaldehyde) based on mass spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses. Orsellinaldehyde displayed broad-spectrum inhibitory activity against different plant pathogenic fungi. Among the tested Colletotrichum species, it exhibited the lowest IC50 values on conidial germination and germ tube elongation of Colletotrichum orbiculare. The compound also showed remarkable inhibitory activity against Colletotrichum gloeosporiodes. The staining of Colletotrichum conidia with fluorescein diacetate and propidium iodide demonstrated that the compound is fungicidal. The postharvest in - vivo detached fruit assay indicated that orsellinaldehyde suppressed anthracnose lesion symptoms on mango and cucumber fruits caused by C. gloeosporioides and C. orbiculare , respectively. Conclusions Orsellinaldehyde was identified as a potent antifungal compound from the culture filtrate of C. comatus. The inhibitory and fungicidal activities of orsellinaldehyde against different Colletotrichum species indicate its potential as a fungicide for protecting various fruits against anthracnose disease-causing fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We encountered a case of mushroom intoxication complicated by "toxic-like" myocarditis. Because of the lack of systematized knowledge on this subject, we performed a systematic review of the literature on cardiac toxicity in mushroom poisoning (MP). The aim of this study was to identify and describe the severity, the causal relationship, and the mushroom species involved in other reported cardiac events associated with MP. We included 39 studies in our review. We found 106 cases of cardiac events associated with MP, including 18 deaths. A wide variety of cardiac manifestations were reported, ranging from the simple elevation of cardiac enzymes (n = 61) to ventricular tachycardia (n = 14), acute heart failure (n = 18), and myocarditis (n = 7). Causal relationship between cardiac manifestations and mushroom poisoning was assessed for 42 patients, applying the algorithm validated by the French Toxicovigilance Coordination Committee. Twenty-three cases (54.8%) had a "possible" causal relationship, eight cases (19%) a "probable" relationship, and ten cases (23.8%) a "very probable" relationship. Several fungal genera were involved in reported cases, including Amanita but also rarer ones like Russula and Tricholoma. In conclusion, we showed that cases of cardiac toxicity following MP have been documented in the existing literature, and for some of them, we assessed a strong causal relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternative medicines commonly supplement or, at times, replace standard medical treatment. One area of increasing attention is disease-modifying medicines for neurodegenerative diseases. However, few such alternatives have been investigated thoroughly with an eye towards understanding mechanisms of action for clinical use. Medicinal mushrooms have important health benefits and pharmacological activities with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, immunomodulatory, digestive, cytoprotective, homeostatic, and neuroprotective activities. Edible mushrooms are known to play roles in preventing age-related diseases. Several studies have revealed that polysaccharides, terpenes, and phenolic compounds are chemical components derived from mushrooms with pharmacological activities. Due to limited effective protocols for mushroom protein extraction for proteomic studies, information about these medicinally related proteins and their biological functions remains enigmatic. Herein, we have performed proteomic studies of two mushroom species Laricifomes officinalis (agarikon) and Grifola frondosa (maitake). These studies serve to uncover a foundation for putative proteome-associated neuroprotective processes. The recovered proteins from both species show multiple cell-specific signaling pathways including unfolded protein response, and mitochondrial protein import as well as those linked to BAG2, ubiquitination, apoptosis, microautophagy, glycolysis, SNARE, and immunogenic cell signaling pathways. This study uncovered mushroom proteome-associated proteins which serve to better understand the structural and functional properties of mushrooms used as alternative medicines for broad potential health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Laccaria (Hydnangiaceae, Agaricales) is an important ectomycorrhizal symbiont of a broad range of host plants. Laccaria guizhouensis was collected from a subtropical mixed forest dominated by Fagaceae in Southwest China and described based on morphological characteristics and molecular data. Laccaria guizhouensis is characterised by its medium-sized basidiocarps and strong striate or sulcatus, flesh-coloured to brown pileus, flesh-coloured to brown lamellae, 2- to 4-spored basidia, globose to obellipsoid, hyaline, moderately echinulate basidiospores, and 1–1.5 μm-long echinulate. Phylogenetic analyses based on ITS sequences (HMAS352265 and HMAS352266) indicated that L. guizhouensis represented a new species separated from all other Laccaria species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complicated neurodegenerative condition with two forms: familial and sporadic. The familial presentation is marked by autosomal dominance, typically occurring early in individuals under 65 years of age, while the sporadic presentation is late-onset, occurring in individuals over the age of 65. The majority of AD cases are characterized by late-onset and sporadic. Despite extensive research conducted over several decades, there is a scarcity of effective therapies and strategies. Considering the lack of a cure for AD, it is essential to explore alternative natural substances with higher efficacy and fewer side effects for AD treatment. Bioactive compounds derived from mushrooms have demonstrated significant potential in AD prevention and treatment by different mechanisms such as targeting amyloid formation, tau, cholinesterase dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, neuronal apoptosis, neurotrophic factors, ER stress, excitotoxicity, and mitochondrial dysfunction. These compounds have garnered considerable interest from the academic community owing to their advantages of multi-channel, multi-target, high safety and low toxicity. This review focuses on the various mechanisms involved in the development and progression of AD, presents the regulatory effects of bioactive components with definite structure from mushroom on AD in recent years, highlights the possible intervention pathways of mushroom bioactive components targeting different mechanisms, and discusses the clinical studies, limitations, and future perspectives of mushroom bioactive components in AD prevention and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is widely known that mushrooms present several properties with applications in the medicinal and pharmaceutical sectors, including antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, hypotensive, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities. This article aims to review examples of the bioactive metabolites responsible for those activities, such as polysaccharides, phenols and polyphenols, terpenes, peptides, alkaloids, and steroids, which are produced by several relevant mushroom species. It also discusses their production through solid-state fermentation and submerged fermentation, as well as the processes of obtention of mushroom bioactive extracts and considerations on their stability aiming industrial applications. In addition, the article examines the patent landscape surrounding mushroom-derived bioactives, shedding light on the intellectual property history and innovations driving this field forward. Examples of recently deposited patents in the field are highlighted, as well as the main depositors. China and the United States are the major depositor countries in this field (52% and 35% of patents, respectively), and the principal compounds on the patents are polysaccharides and alkaloids. The article also provides insights into the current market landscape, showcasing mushroom-derived products in the pharmaceutical field available to consumers. From dietary supplements to skincare formulations, the market offerings reflect the growing interest in harnessing the health benefits of mushroom bioactives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms are considered as sustainable foods as they require less effort and can be cultivated on different agro-industrial wastes. Besides, these possess many nutraceuticals for providing health benefits along with supplementing nutrition. The mushrooms are also used as prebiotics for their ability to support beneficial microbes in the gut and inhibit the growth of pathogens. Furthermore, these remain undigested in the upper gut and reach the intestine to replenish the gut microbiota. The mushrooms boost health by inhibiting the binding of pathogenic bacteria, by promoting the growth of specific gut microbiota, producing short chain fatty acids, and regulating lipid metabolism and cancer. Research has been initiated in the commercial formulation of various products such as yogurt and symbiotic capsules. This paper sheds light on health-promoting effect, disease controlling, and regulating effect of mushroom prebiotics. This paper also presented a glimpse of commercialization of mushroom prebiotics. In the future, proper standardization of mushroom-based prebiotic formulations will be available to boost human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an emerging type of packaging film containing polyvinyl alcohol and sesbania gum as the matrix and tea tree oil hydroxyapatite microspheres as the active ingredients was developed. The effect of this film on the postharvest quality of the Agaricus bisporus stored for 12 days at 4 °C was investigated. The experimental results revealed that the novel packaging film enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD and CAT, reduced the weight loss in the Agaricus bisporus. On the last day of storage, the hardness was 11.5 N, malondialdehyde content was 1.42 nmol/g, and the total colony count was 5.16 log10 cfu/g, which were better than those of other groups, the mushrooms in this treatment group also maintained a fine whiteness appearance. According to the findings, the packaging film can effectively maintain the quality of Agaricus bisporus, thereby facilitating its use as a novel active packaging material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field study was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station of the College of Agriculture, University of Kufa, for the agricultural season 2022–2023 to evaluate the effect of a biofertilizer prepared using wheat straw–Agaricus bisporus mushroom compost and foliar spray with potassium or boron. Their interactions on flower growth and yield of the squash plant, Cucurbita pepo L. (Squash Ahmed F1 hybrid), were determined. The experiment was factorial (3 × 4) as a randomized complete block design with two factors and three replicates. The first factor was planting soil treatment with straw composted by A. bisporus at three levels of 0, 1, and 2 g/plant at four true leaves stage. The second factor was spraying with 2 mL/L of potassium or boron or a combined treatment of both. The results showed that the biofertilization treatment with straw-mushroom compost was superior in increasing the number of pistillate flowers, reaching 15.26 flowers/plant, the average sexual ratio of 0.67%, and the fruit set of 65.86%, compared to the control treatment where 13.76 flowers/plant, 0.60% sexual ratio, and fruit set of 58.98%, respectively, was recorded. The foliar spray with boron at 2 mg/L was significantly effective in increasing the same parameters by 15.27 flowers/plant, 0.69%, and 64.67%, respectively, compared to the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms are delicious foodstuffs that are rich in nutrients, but they have high moisture contents and are easily spoiled. While mushrooms are usually preserved by drying, the process tends to reduce quality, and it takes a long time and consumes a large amount of energy. To improve the mushroom drying efficiency and quality, pretreatment is often conducted. In this review, a comprehensive summary of commonly used pretreatments for mushroom drying is provided. Moreover, the effects of various pretreatments on the drying rate and quality characteristics of mushrooms are summarized, and their respective advantages and limitations are analyzed. Furthermore, the application and development prospects of various mushroom drying pretreatments are analyzed and discussed. Practical applications: The pretreatment before mushroom drying can shorten drying time, maintain the optimal color and taste of dried mushroom, and reduce nutrient loss. This review summarizes two types of pretreatment methods used in mushroom drying: thermal pretreatment and nonthermal pretreatment. It can provide reference for the application and research of pretreatment in mushroom drying, and also provide new ideas for the optimization of industrial mushroom drying processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A crop pretreatment with silicon was combined with passive modified atmosphere packaging (PMAP) in a thermoformed recycled PET packaging format as a novel approach to minimize the quality degradation in mushrooms. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of (a) two preharvest treatments, namely preharvest control (PHTC) and preharvest silicon treatment (PHTS) and (b) four packaging lid formats, namely PMAP1: a single hole of 1.1 mm size, PMAP2: two holes of 0.53 mm size, PMAP3: three holes of 0.53 mm size, and PMAPC: OMNI-PW micro perforated cling film as a control on the quality and shelf life of mushrooms during five days of storage at 4 °C and 99.9% RH. The results of the analysis of variance showed that packaging type, storage days, and the double interaction effects of storage days × packaging type had significant effects (p < 0.0001) on the changes in O2, CO2, colour L* and a* values, ΔE, total soluble solids (TSS), and the density of mushrooms. Density, electrolyte leakage (EL), and TSS were significantly affected by the double interaction effects of preharvest treatment × packaging type. Overall, PMAP1, PMAP2, and PMAP3 resulted in lower O2 + higher CO2 within packages compared with the conventional control. A preharvest silicon treatment had little overall effect. PMAP 1, 2 and 3 had a significantly lower ΔE (=better quality) after 5 days storage compared to PMAPC which had the highest ΔE (lowest quality) overall. PMAP1 and PMAP2 had the lowest EL values compared to PMAP3 and PMAPC. PMAP1, PMAP2, and PMAP3 all gave better TSS levels and density compared to PMAPC. Notably, this study proved that a perforation-mediated MAP design for mushrooms packaged in a thermoformed recycled PET packaging format maintained improved CO2, lowered O2, and reduced EL while maintaining TSS and the density of the mushrooms during the storage period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Global change is reshaping Earth's biodiversity, but the changing distributions of nonpathogenic fungi remain largely undocumented, as do mechanisms enabling invasions. The ectomycorrhizal Amanita phalloides is native to Europe and invasive in North America. Using population genetics and genomics, we sought to describe the life history traits of this successfully invading symbiotic fungus.To test whether death caps spread underground using hyphae, or aboveground using sexual spores, we mapped and genotyped mushrooms from European and US sites. Larger genetic individuals (genets) would suggest spread mediated by vegetative growth, while many small genets would suggest dispersal mediated by spores. To test whether genets are ephemeral or persistent, we also sampled from populations over time.At nearly every site and across all time points, mushrooms resolve into small genets. Individuals frequently establish from sexual spores. But at one Californian site, a single individual measuring nearly 10 m across dominated. At two Californian sites, the same genetic individuals were discovered in 2004, 2014, and 2015, suggesting single individuals (both large and small) can reproduce repeatedly over relatively long timescales.A flexible life history strategy combining both mycelial growth and spore dispersal appears to underpin the invasion of this deadly perennial ectomycorrhizal fungus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensory stimuli are essential for arthropod survival and reproduction. Given the widespread use of vibrational communication among diverse taxa, exploiting vibrational senses has great potential for successful pest management. In this review, we summarize our recent findings on vibration‐based pest management and future perspectives in the context of integrated pest management. We first examine the management of whiteflies – the tobacco whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) and the greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) – in various facilities where tomatoes are cultivated. We then explore the recent application of vibration for the control of fungus gnats of the genus Neoempheria (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) infesting shiitake mushrooms. Finally, we discuss the control of the brown‐winged green stink bug, Plautia stali Scott (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), a pest of fruit trees in Japan. Notably, our trials have demonstrated that vibrational treatments are profitable not only for reducing pest populations but also for indirect benefits such as increased crop yields or the enhancement of pest control effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tremella fuciformis Berk. (TF), or the white jelly mushroom, is well known for its myriad of pharmacological properties, such as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antitumor, and antioxidant activities, and hypocholesterolemic and hepatoprotective effects that boost human health. Most of the studies of TF are concentrated on its polysaccharide (glucuronoxylomannan) composition, which is responsible for its pharmacological as well as rheological properties. It is well established that mushrooms are a great source of dietary vitamin D due to the presence of ergosterol in their cell membrane. There is a lack of published data on TF as a source of vitamin D2. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the vitamin D2 composition of the fruiting bodies of TF using triple quadrupole liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/QQQ). The results showed highest vitamin D2 content (292.02 µg/g dry weight) in the sample irradiated with ultraviolet B (UVB; 310 nm) for 180 min as compared with the control group (52.47 µg/g dry weight) (P ≤ 0.001). The results showed higher accumulation potential of vitamin D2 in TF as compared with published data available for other extensively studied culinary mushrooms, such as Agaricus bisporus, Lentinula edodes, Pleurotus ostreatus, Cordiceps militaris, and Calocybe indica. Moreover, the impact of UV treatment on antioxidant capacities and total polyphenol content of TF was also studied. The accumulation potential of vitamin D in TF reveals a novel commercial source for this nutrient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problems of picking mushrooms manually in the factory mushroom growing environment with consuming time and labor, a mushroom picking robot was designed and developed. The mechanical structure of the picking robot system was designed by the modular design method, and the positive and negative kinematics solutions of the robot were deduced based on the D-H coordinate method to analyze the dynamic performance of the picking arm. The multi-objective optimization model of picking arm size structure was established for maximizing the picking efficiency, and the optimal solution was obtained with rapid iteration by genetic algorithm. The Adams virtual prototype model was established, and the picking dynamics simulation tests of the robot model before and after optimization were conducted. The simulation results show that under the same motor output torque, the maximum angular velocities of the big arm joint and the small arm joint are increased by 22.9% and 18.6%, respectively, while the single picking time is shortened from 1.60 s to 1.36 s with the picking speed increased by 15%. The developed physical prototype is suitable for the large area automatic picking operation in the sall multi- layer mushroom bed under the factory mushroom growing mode, and the single picking time is 2.0 s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Sidera (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) comprises white-rot, mono- or dimitic fungi with poroid or hydnoid hymenophore. It has a worldwide distribution albeit with fewer species present in the Southern Hemisphere. Although recent studies revealed the existence of several new Sidera species, there are still taxonomic inconsistencies and obscure phylogenetic relationships amongst certain taxa of the genus. In this work, a large number of Sidera collections were used to obtain an updated phylogeny, based on ITS and 28S rDNA sequences by including new material from Mediterranean Europe. The monophyly of the genus was strongly supported and all species with poroid hymenophore formed a highly-supported lineage with two major subclades. In total, 23 putative species were recognised. Amongst those, five are considered to possibly represent entities new to science, but further work is required since they are represented by single specimens or environmental sequences. Examined collections originally named S. lenis from southern Europe were grouped within S. vulgaris. Similarly, several collections under various names were hereby identified as S. vulgaris, including those of the recently described species S. tibetica. Furthermore, a critical discussion (based on morphoanatomical findings) is made on the key features that could be used to distinguish S. lenis from S. vulgaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon dots (CDs) have emerged as versatile fluorescent nanomaterials for diverse applications. The synthesis of CDs from natural products offers a sustainable alternative to chemical methods. This study presents the preparation of green fluorescent CDs (G‐CDs) using seafood mushrooms as the carbon source and 5‐amino‐2‐methylphenol as the nitrogen source through a hydrothermal approach. The G‐CDs exhibit maximum excitation/emission peaks at 467/519 nm and a high quantum yield of up to 17.2% in ethanol. Additionally, the G‐CDs demonstrate excellent photostability, salt tolerance, and chemical stability. The excitation‐independent emissions suggest the presence of unique surface‐state luminescent centers. The application of the G‐CDs as an anti‐counterfeiting fluorescent ink is demonstrated. This work highlights the promise of converting natural food sources into high‐performance CDs, expanding their utility across various domains including biomedicine, sensing, and security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of biodegradable food packaging has gained a great deal of attention due to the environmental concerns associated with the accumulation of plastic waste. In this study, chitosan (Cs)/gelatin (Gel) nanofibers (NFs) containing Zataria multiflora extract (ZME) were prepared through the electrospinning technique. Morphological characteristics of NFs were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). NFs were cross-linked via a green process using citric acid and heat treatment. The effect of NF cross-linking on the structure, water stability, and mechanical behavior of the scaffolds was investigated. The antibacterial effectiveness of the prepared mats was studied by the colony counting method. In addition, the scaffolds were applied in the preservation of edible mushrooms. SEM analysis revealed smooth and bead-free Gel70-Cs30-ZME NFs with an average diameter of 188 nm. Cross-linked NFs possessed higher water contact angle (0° vs. 65.9°), swelling degree (45% vs. 1079%), and mechanical properties (tensile strength of 0.14 MPa vs. 0.45 MPa) than as-spun mats. Weight loss and water vapor permeability were reduced after cross-linking from 96 to 34% and from 6.7 to 5.2 g mm/kPa h m2, respectively. Cross-linked Gel70-Cs30-ZME NFs exhibited satisfactory antibacterial activity with about 3 and 2 Log CFU/mL reduction of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli populations, respectively. Electrospun mats delayed the deterioration of mushrooms in comparison with the commonly used polyethylene films. Therefore, cross-linked Gel70-Cs30-ZME scaffold with improved mechanical and functional properties has potential applications in fruit and vegetable packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial distribution of molecules and compounds responsible for the flavor profile of edible button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporous) has never been determined. The food industry is interested in knowing the localization of these compounds. Such knowledge would enable extraction of flavor compounds from a particular regions of the mushroom, which is safer for consumption compared to alternatives such as synthetic flavoring agents. The present study utilizes matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI), to determine the spatial distribution of flavor compounds in a mushroom. As MALDI-MSI requires very thin sections, a sample preparation protocol was optimized and sectioning fresh frozen mushrooms at 35 µm thickness was considered the best method to evaluate the distribution of flavor compounds. Further, the effect of heat on the spatial distribution of flavor compounds was investigated by heating whole mushrooms to 140 ℃ prior to sectioning. Heating reduced the water content of the mushroom and thus enabled the generation of even-thinner 17 µm thick sections. MALDI-MSI measurements performed on underivatized and on-tissue derivatized fresh frozen and heat-treated mushroom sections elucidated the spatial distribution of several flavor-related compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strobilurins A and X, isolated from Mucidula venosolamellata culture extracts, demonstrated potent inhibition of human melanoma G-361 cell proliferation. Strobilurin X exhibited milder inhibitory effects on human fibroblast cells (NB1RGB) compared to strobilurin A. Additional strobilurin-related compounds were isolated from the other mushroom species. Oudemansins A and B displayed weaker activities on G-361 cells than strobilurins A and B, respectively, emphasizing the importance of a conjugated double-bond structure. Among isolated compounds, strobilurin G showed the lowest IC50 value for G-361 cells. Additional strobilurins bearing various substituents on the benzene ring were synthesized. Synthetic intermediates lacking the methyl β-methoxyacrylate group and a strobilurin analogue bearing modified β-methoxyacrylate moiety showed almost no inhibitory activity against G-361 cells. The introduction of long or bulky substituents at the 4′ position of the benzene ring of strobilurins enhanced the activity and selectivity, suggesting differential recognition of the benzene ring by G-361 and NB1RGB cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms have been an acclaimed food for their unique flavor and medicinal properties since ancient times. Modern research shows that mushrooms are rich in various nutrients and biologically active substances. In recent years, researchers have become increasingly interested in mushrooms because they contain important secondary metabolites, such as phenolic compounds with significant bioactive properties. This review introduces the nutritional components and secondary metabolites in mushrooms, focusing on the bioactive functions and potential applications of mushroom polyphenols. Finally, the current challenges and future research trends of mushroom polyphenols are briefly discussed. In the aspect of nutritional value, mushrooms are high in protein and insoluble fiber, while low in fat and sodium, making them a low-energy, healthy food. Mushrooms contain a large amount of beneficial bioactive substances for health, including phenolic compounds, as well as tocopherols, terpenoids, and phytosterols. Mushroom polyphenols have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-tyrosine, antihyperglycemic, and other biological activities beneficial to human health and medical applications, especially in the various degenerative disease and cancer treatments. However, based on the properties of phenolic compounds, research and development in commercial applications still face many issues that need to be addressed by researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of contamination and intake rates, as well as the risk of Lithium (Li), Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), and Lead (Pb) contained in wild species of King Tuber Mushroom (P. tuber-regium) collected pre-, post- and during the COVID-19 lockdown which is widely consumed in northwestern Nigeria; and to also assess their potential to accumulate some heavy metals, which comprises the linked consumer health hazards by assessing the risks to children, adolescents, and adults from cancer-causing and non-cancer-causing substances based on estimated weekly intake (EWI). After mineralization with acid, the concentrations were determined using Optical Emission Spectrometry with Inductively Coupled Plasma (OES-ICP), and Mercury (Hg) using Cold Vapor Atomic Fluorescence Spectrophotometer (CV-AFS). Moreover, the health risk assessment due to the ingestion of these elements through the consumption of P. tuberregium was estimated. The findings showed that concentrations of As, Pb, Cd, Li and Hg varied greatly within between 2018 and 2022, with levels higher in pre- and post- COVID-19, and lower during the COVID-19 lockdown. In descending order, the average content of these substrates and metals, was As > Pb > Cd > Li > Hg. Children, adolescents, and adults all had EWI values below the mushroom’s provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWIs). The consumption of P. tuber-regium harvested from the areas investigated, therefore, poses no toxicological or health risks to the inhabitants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species under the names of Lepiota brunneopileata and L. pakistanensis are described herein based on four collections during mushroom surveys in 2021–2022 from scrubland in district Gujrat, Pakistan. Morpho-anatomy and phylogenetic placement, based on Internal Transcribed Spacer (nrITS) and Larger Subunit (nrLSU), clustered them into Lepiota sect. Lepiota and Stenosporae. Lepiota brunneopileata is characterized by brown to dark brown disk, squamules on light brown pileus surface as well as on stipe, spurred, truncate basidiospores (3.9–7.0 × 2.7–4.1 μm), narrowly clavate to cylindrical and utriform cheilocystidia, with light brown to brown trichodermal pileus covering elements. Lepiota pakistanensis possesses small basidiomata with ochraceous disk, ochraceous to light brown cottony squamules on creamy white pileus surface, fusiform to slightly amygdaliform basidiospores (10.3–11.7 × 4.7–5.8 μm), clavate to broadly clavate cheilocystidia, trichodermal pileus covering with long cylindrical to fusiform terminal elements and spherocystous to clavate basal elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]