Sea-based Stroke Recovery through Mycelium and Surveillance of Mushroom Regulations
In the world of fungi and psychedelics, there's been a flurry of exciting discoveries and advancements. Here's a roundup of some of the most intriguing developments that have caught our attention.
Boosting Brain Plasticity Without Hallucinations
Researchers have discovered a new compound called tabernanthalog (TBG) that increases brain plasticity, much like psilocybin, but without causing hallucinations. This breakthrough could pave the way for new treatments for various neurological disorders.
Support for Psychedelic Users
The Psychedelic Info Line, a valuable resource, connects users with trained navigators offering free, one-on-one support grounded in science. This service provides much-needed guidance and reassurance for those exploring the world of psychedelics.
Community-Driven Psychedelic Research
Unlimited Sciences has launched a community-driven roadmap to guide future psychedelic research with a focus on real-world use. This initiative empowers the public to have a say in the direction of research, ensuring that it remains relevant and beneficial to society.
A Brighter, Faster Stain for Cells
Scientists have developed new green-emissive carbon dots (G-CDs) that can stain fungi, bacteria, plant cells, and human cells in high detail. These dots offer a faster, brighter alternative to traditional dyes, making them a valuable tool in various research fields.
Mushrooms to the Rescue
Several studies have shown the protective effects of various mushrooms. For instance, Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and king tuber mushroom (Pleurotus tuberregium) protect rats from lead-induced reproductive harm. Wood ear mushrooms (Auricularia polytricha) shield the liver from alcohol-related damage, while tiger milk mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerus) relaxes constricted blood vessels by nearly 98% in a controlled lab setting.
Mushrooms Boost Agriculture
Feeding cows with spent mushroom paddy straw-waste left after oyster mushroom cultivation boosts both milk production and quality. Additionally, soybean straw has been found to grow the largest, fastest, and most nutrient-rich oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus spp.) compared to five other farm waste substrates.
Mushrooms in Medicine
Johns Hopkins is testing psilocybin as a way to help stroke survivors regain motor function. A newly purified protein from oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) has potent antiviral activity, and tiger milk mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerus) improves immune cell activation and balances inflammation when combined with paraprobiotics from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum.
Mushroom-Centered Social Media Struggles
Unfortunately, mushroom-focused social media accounts have been impacted by suspensions and shutdowns, leading to lost visibility and connections with their communities. For example, Hamilton's Mushrooms was suspended from Instagram, disrupting their digital engagement. These suspensions limit the ability of these accounts to reach followers and conduct ecommerce or community-building activities.
Combining Therapies for Cancer Patients
A new approach called meaning-centered psychotherapy (MCP) is being combined with psilocybin therapy to help cancer patients facing depression and end-of-life distress. This combined therapy could offer a new hope for those battling these challenging conditions.
Protecting Human Cells from Disease
Tiger milk mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerus) has been found to protect human cells from oxidative damage in a lab model of Friedreich's ataxia.
Restoring Tropical Forests
A review of 263 papers reveals that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a major role in restoring tropical forests by boosting nutrient cycling, soil structure, and plant resilience.
Psilocybin's Effect on Learning and Mental Flexibility
Psilocybin affects learning and mental flexibility differently depending on age and hormonal cycle in female rats.
Psychedelic Training Program at a Public University
CU Denver has launched Colorado's first state-approved psychedelic facilitator training program at a public university. This program aims to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to guide psychedelic therapy sessions safely and effectively.
[1] News Article 1 [3] News Article 3 [5] News Article 5
