New Insights in Mycelium Research: From Fundamental Mycelium Science to Applied Biotechnologies

Dear Colleagues,

Mycelium, the filamentous vegetative network of fungi, has emerged as a significant focal point in contemporary scientific research owing to its exceptional biological functions and environmental versatility. Comprised of interconnected hyphal structures, mycelium underpins ecosystem stability through its roles in organic matter decomposition, nutrient cycling, and the formation of mycorrhizal symbioses that enhance plant health and soil productivity. Increasingly, interdisciplinary investigations highlight mycelium’s broad potential across biotechnology, materials science, and environmental sustainability.

In biotechnology and medicine, growing evidence supports the antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory activities of fungal mycelia, positioning them as promising candidates for novel therapeutics, nutraceuticals, and immune-support applications.

Environmental research further underscores mycelium’s capacity to degrade contaminants—including hydrocarbons, pesticides, and heavy metals—through mycoremediation processes that support ecological restoration of soils and aquatic systems. Parallel advances in materials science have enabled the development of mycelium-based composites (MBCs) and pure-mycelium materials (PMMs), which offer lightweight, durable, and biodegradable alternatives to plastics, leather, and synthetic foams. Mycelium-derived biocomposites show promise in carbon sequestration and sustainable architectural design. These innovations align with global sustainability priorities, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, by contributing renewable solutions for packaging, construction, and fashion.

Collectively, these developments position mycelium research as a rapidly expanding, multidisciplinary field that integrates biological insight with technological innovation to advance sustainable practices and environmental resilience.

Dr. Galena Angelova
Prof. Dr. Albert Krastanov
Guest Editors

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