Psychedelic compounds found in ‘magic #mushrooms are increasingly being recognized for their potential to treat important mental health conditions. These include #depression, #anxiety, compulsive disorders, and addiction. #Psilocybin mushrooms are commonly known as magic mushrooms or #shrooms. They are a group of #fungi that contain psilocybin which turns into psilocin upon ingestion. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring #psychedelic prodrug compound, which means it is a biologically inactive compound that the body converts into a drug. However, very little is known about how these compounds evolved and what role they play in the natural world. To address that knowledge gap, scientists from the University of Plymouth are conducting a first-of-its-kind research study using advanced genetic methods and behavioral experiments to address previously untested hypotheses about the origin of psychedelic compounds in fungi. This includes exploring whether such traits have evolved as a form of defense against #fungus feeding invertebrates, or whether the fungi produce compounds that manipulate insect behavior for their own advantage. Psilocybin, commonly found in so-called ‘magic mushrooms,’ will be a particular focus for the project. In chemical terms, psilocybin is very similar to #serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter involved in the sending of information between nerve cells in animals. After sampling psychedelic and non-psychedelic fungi, the investigators are using next-generation #DNA sequencing to test whether or not there is a diverse animal community feeding on psychedelic fungi. They are also using laboratory tests to investigate fungal-insect interactions, and whether the fungi undergo genetic changes during attack and development. The research will also involve using cutting-edge gene editing technology to try and create mutant fungi that cannot synthesize psilocybin. It is hoped this will help researchers better understand the role of a wide range of fungal compounds in the future. Read full article here: https://scitechdaily.com/psychedelic-sorcery-how-do-mushrooms-become-magic/amp/ #spreadingthespores