Mended Veteran Lives, Restored Waterways, and Potential Improvement Found in Mushroom Mixtures

In the world of scientific research, mushrooms are proving to be a fascinating subject. From their potential as natural remedies to their ability to clean polluted environments, these humble fungi are making a big impact.

At the forefront of this research is a collaboration between UW-Madison and the Usona Institute. They are leading the charge in testing psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, for its potential to treat depression, PTSD, and addiction. This groundbreaking work has even caught the attention of the DEA, who have formally petitioned the Department of Health and Human Services to review moving psilocybin from Schedule I to Schedule II.

Meanwhile, other mushrooms are making waves for their health benefits. Button and oyster mushrooms, for instance, provide strong prebiotic and antioxidant effects. These benefits are not limited to human health, as a group of entrepreneurs discovered in 1996 when they found optimal conditions for growing oyster mushrooms commercially. Their research led to the creation of floating wetlands made from oyster mushroom mycelium, which filter polluted shoreline waters through mycofiltration. These biodegradable structures not only bind heavy metals and break down toxins but also create habitat for wildlife.

The health benefits of mushrooms extend beyond prebiotics and antioxidants. Compounds from mushrooms like reishi, cordyceps, and chaga modulate autophagy, the cell's natural recycling system. Schizophyllan, a polysaccharide from split gill mushrooms, speeds up wound healing. And certain mushroom combinations show synergistic power in boosting antioxidant and anti-glycation activity.

However, not all research on psilocybin and mushrooms is focused on their health benefits. A study of 21 veterans with traumatic brain injuries found that attending psilocybin retreat ceremonies led to major improvements in depression, anxiety, and post-concussion symptoms. Similarly, a clinical thesis found that gut fungi in adults with autism spectrum disorder are less diverse and have lower total fungal load.

But the use of psilocybin is not without controversy. Hunt Priest, an Episcopal clergyman who founded Ligare, a Christian psychedelic nonprofit, was removed from ordained ministry after church leaders ruled he used pastoral authority to endorse illegal drug use.

In the realm of environmental science, mushrooms are also making strides. A consortium of microalgae, bacteria, and white rot fungi removed up to 96% of nitrogen, phosphorus, heavy metals, and antibiotics from aquaculture wastewater in just 7 days. And a review highlights how fungi break down stubborn "xenobiotic" pollutants like pesticides, plastics, hydrocarbons, and PCBs.

Scientists are even exploring how fungi might be used to extend the shelf life of produce. They have created nanocellulose films from spent medicinal mushroom substrate that show antibacterial activity and can extend the shelf life of button mushrooms.

Finally, researchers are delving into the inner workings of fungi themselves. They are exploring whether fungi undergo ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death first discovered in mammals. And seven new compounds from the fungus Biscogniauxia sp. show strong anti-inflammatory activity.

In the world of science, mushrooms are proving to be a versatile and valuable subject. From their potential as treatments for mental health issues to their ability to clean polluted environments, the future of mushroom research is exciting and full of promise.