Search Results (145)

The uptake and accumulation of heavy metals by wild-grown mushrooms is raising health concerns for consumers worldwide with respect to variability conditioned by species and harvesting site specificity. This study aims to evaluate the concentration of elements (Zn) and heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Hg) in wild-growing edible mushroom samples (n = 200) collected from industrial and non-industrial areas in Poland. Over half of the analyzed mushroom samples (51%) exceeded EU limits for Cd, Pb, or Hg. Xerocomellus chrysenteron and X. subtomentosus (XCS) showed the highest accumulation, with median Cd and Pb concentrations of 3.53 mg/kg and 0.63 mg/kg fresh mass, respectively, in industrial areas. Spatial factors, including distance from emission sources and wind direction, significantly influenced element accumulation, with Cd levels in XCS up to 20 times higher than in Suillus species. A high-consumption scenario (96 g/day) indicated a substantial non-carcinogenic risk (HQ > 1) from Cd exposure via XCS consumption, both in industrial (HQ up to 9.01) and non-industrial areas (HQ max = 1.80), with cumulative hazard index (HI) ranging from 1.21 to 11.01. It is imperative to select the optimal regions for mushroom harvesting and to refrain from consuming species that accumulate elements to the greatest extent. Full article

Core germplasm, a strategically selected subset of the original germplasm, aims to maximize the representation of genetic diversity within the entire collection. Establishing a germplasm resource bank is essential for the effective management and sustainable utilization of genetic resources. This study developed a core germplasm repository for Hypsizygus marmoreus, a commercially important mushroom species, to capture the genetic diversity of the original collection with a minimal sample size. Genetic diversity and cluster analyses were conducted on 57 representative strains of H. marmoreus, including both cultivated and wild accessions from different regions, using 15 pairs of simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. DNA molecular identity cards were generated for all germplasms, and cultivation trials with agronomic trait assessments were performed on 24 core accessions. A total of 115 distinct alleles were identified, with genetic similarity coefficients ranging from 0.70 to 1.00. Clustering at a similarity threshold of 0.76 classified the strains into five groups. The core germplasm panel, comprising 24 accessions (42.11% of the total collection), retained full allelic diversity and preserved the genetic and phenotypic variability of the original population, confirming its suitability for parental selection in breeding programs. unique molecular identity codes were developed for each H. marmoreus germplasm by integrating SSR marker profiles with data on geographical origin, fruiting body color, and cultivation traits. These were converted into DNA molecular ID codes, providing a reliable system for rapid identification and traceability of germplasm resources. The findings offer a valuable reference for breeding improvement and the protection of edible fungal varieties with independent intellectual property rights. Full article

Hericium coralloides is a valuable medicinal and edible mushroom renowned for its unique bioactive compounds. This study focuses on the isolation of a wild strain (SH001) exhibiting promising cultivation potential and health promoting properties. A wild fungal strain from the Tibetan Plateau was isolated and identified as a novel H. coralloides based on its morphological and molecular characteristics. The optimal growth conditions were found to be 30 °C, pH 7.0, fructose as the preferred carbon source, and yeast extract as the optimal nitrogen source. Nutritional analysis revealed that the fruiting bodies were rich in protein (15.4 g/100 g dry weight), dietary fiber (34.7 g/100 g dry weight), and minerals, while being low in fat (3.5 g/100 g dry weight). The most abundant amino acids were glutamic acid, followed by aspartic acid. The polysaccharides exhibited significant antioxidant activity, with ABTS⁺ scavenging comparable to that of Vitamin C (Vc), achieving a clearance rate of 96.95% at concentrations between 0.25–5.00 mg/mL. At a concentration of 5 mg/mL, the DPPH and OH radical scavenging activities reached their peak (83.77% and 67.31%, respectively), along with the highest iron ion reducing capacity (FRAP value: 4.43 mmol/L. Polysaccharides also exhibited notable anticancer activity, inhibiting HepG2 liver cancer cells and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells, with IC₅₀ values of 3.896 mg/mL and 2.561 mg/mL, respectively. This study demonstrates that wild H. coralloides can be successfully cultivated in vitro. In conclusion, the fruiting bodies possess substantial nutritional value, and the polysaccharides extracted from them show promising antioxidant and anticancer activities, particularly against HepG2 liver cancer cells and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells. Full article

Edible wild mushrooms have considerable nutritional value, being widely used in Romania as a traditional food. Mushrooms are an important source of essential minerals for the optimal functioning of the body and can accumulate some toxic metals that affect human health, this being the reason to investigate their metal content, and the possible risks to human health associated with consuming mushrooms. Eighteen wild edible mushroom species from the forestry areas of Dâmbovița County, Romania, were analyzed for metal content using Energy-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence with fundamental parameter methods (EDXRF-FP). The detected concentrations varied among species as follows: 6.309–88.745 mg/kg for Fe; 0.679–3.480 mg/kg for Cu; 5.115–25.942 mg/kg for Zn; 0.236–32.025 mg/kg for Mn; 0.033–4.507 mg/kg for Ni and 0.003–0.760 mg/kg for Cr. Pb and Cd were observed at low levels, with maximum concentrations of 0.886 mg/kg and 0.850 mg/kg, respectively, highlighting significant interspecific differences in metal content. The consumption of the studied mushroom species presents variable health risks associated with metal content. Adults were generally exposed to acceptable non-carcinogenic risks, although certain species possessed elevated carcinogenic risks due to Cu, Cr, and Cd. For children, non-carcinogenic risks were significant in cases of multiple species, indicating heightened vulnerability. Full article

Mushroom diversity is essential for maintaining ecological balance and provides valuable bioactive compounds for human use. Beyond their nutritional value, mushrooms contribute to functional foods and have applications in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. For example, β-glucans from Lentinula edodes are commercialized as immune-enhancing nutraceuticals, polysaccharide Krestin (PSK) from Trametes versicolor is used as an adjuvant in cancer therapy, and enzymes such as laccases from Pleurotus species are widely applied in biotechnological processes. One of the abundant compounds found in mushrooms is ergosterol, which is a sterol present in the cell membrane of the fungal body. Ergosterol has significant health benefits due to its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, ergosterol is a precursor to vitamin D₂ (ergocalciferol), which can be synthesized through exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and thermal radiation. This review highlights the importance of Himalayan mushroom biodiversity, particularly the wild edible mushrooms traditionally collected and used. This review thoroughly discusses the ergosterol and vitamin D₂ content, their biosynthesis in mushrooms, and the role of environmental factors used to enhance biosynthesis. We also discuss the sustainable cultivation of Himalayan mushrooms and their nutraceutical properties. Several Himalayan mushrooms have been reported to possess health-promoting properties, and their incorporation into functional foods may contribute to improved public health. Furthermore, the future research directions are highlighted. Full article

Edible and medicinal fungi are a general term for large fungi with both edible and medicinal values. As a unique wild edible and medicinal fungus in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the ‘Four Medical Classics’ of the Tang Dynasty has recorded Floccularia luteovirens effects of external application and internal administration on swelling, cold disease, and neck stiffness. At present, it has not been artificially domesticated and has significant development potential. The mushroom is rich in nutrients. The crude protein content of 100 g dried product is 33~39% (up to 38.71 g, about 2.2 times that of Flammulina velutipes). It contains 19 amino acids (including 8 essential amino acids for the human body; tryptophan accounts for 21.55~22.63%). It is also rich in minerals such as selenium, zinc (0.09 g/kg), and iron (0.3 g/kg) and vitamins B1 (0.10 mg), B2 (1.10 mg), C (4.50 mg), and E (6.20 mg). Among the functional active substances, polysaccharides (containing 20.1% β-glucan and 5.7% mannan-oligosaccharide) had antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects, which could alleviate the weight loss of diabetic rats. The IC50 of DPPH free radical scavenging rate of phenolics (ferulic acid, etc.; total phenolic content of 4.21 ± 0.06 mg/g) was 43.85 μg/mL; there was also adenosine, volatile oil, and other components. Pharmacologically, the DPPH free radical scavenging rate of the extract was 65 ± 0.46%, the tumor inhibition rate of the polysaccharide on the tumor-bearing mice was 42.48%, the gastrodin was biocatalyzed (conversion rate 85.2%), and the extracellular polysaccharide could inhibit the color change in shrimp to achieve preservation. This paper reviews its related research progress and provides a reference for its development in the fields of healthy food and biomedicine. Full article

Wild edible mushrooms are increasingly recognised for their nutritional and therapeutic potential, owing to their richness in bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties. This study assessed the chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Ni) in Boletus edulis, Imleria badia, and Leccinum scabrum collected from two forested regions of north-western Poland differing in anthropogenic influence and soil characteristics. The analysis encompassed structural polysaccharides (β- and α-glucans, chitin), carotenoids, L-ascorbic acid, phenolic and organic acids. B. edulis exhibited the highest β-glucan and lycopene contents, but also the greatest cadmium accumulation. I. badia was distinguished by elevated ascorbic and citric acid levels and the strongest DPPH radical scavenging activity, while L. scabrum showed the highest ABTS and FRAP antioxidant capacities and accumulated quinic acid and catechin. Principal component analysis indicated strong correlations between antioxidant activity and phenolic acids, while cadmium levels were inversely associated with antioxidant potential and positively correlated with chitin. Although all metal concentrations remained within EU food safety limits, B. edulis showed consistent cadmium bioaccumulation. From a practical perspective, the results highlight the importance of species selection and sourcing location when considering wild mushrooms for consumption or processing, particularly in the context of nutritional value and contaminant load. Importantly, regular or excessive consumption of B. edulis may result in exceeding the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) levels for cadmium and nickel, which warrants particular attention from a food safety perspective. These findings underscore the influence of species-specific traits and environmental conditions on mushroom biochemical profiles and support their potential as functional foods, provided that metal contents are adequately monitored. Full article

Fistulina hepatica (Schaeff.) With. and Clitocybe nuda (Bull.) H.E. Bigelow & A.H. Sm. are wild edible mushrooms with nutritional and functional potential that remain insufficiently characterized. This study provides the first comparative assessment of their nutritional profiles, phenolic composition, and antioxidant activity, using specimens collected from Montesinho Natural Park (Portugal). Proximate composition, organic and phenolic acids, free sugars, and fatty acids were analyzed by chromatographic methods, and antioxidant capacity was assessed through OxHLIA and TBARS assays. F. hepatica showed higher carbohydrates (9.3 ± 0.2 g/100 g fw) and estimated energy values (43 ± 1 kcal/100 g fw), increased phenolic acids content (2.7 ± 0.1 mg/g extract), and the exclusive presence of p-coumaric and cinnamic acids, along with OxHLIA activity (IC₅₀ = 126 ± 5 µg/mL at Δt = 60 min). C. nuda displayed higher protein (2.5 ± 0.1 g/100 g dw) and quinic acid contents (4.13 ± 0.02 mg/g extract), a PUFA-rich profile, and greater TBARS inhibition (EC₅₀ = 303 ± 17 µg/mL). These findings highlight distinct and complementary bioactive traits, supporting their valorization as natural functional ingredients. Their compositional features offer promising applications in sustainable food systems and nutraceutical development, encouraging further investigations into safety, bioaccessibility, and formulation strategies. Notably, F. hepatica is best consumed at a young developmental stage, as its sensory properties tend to decline with maturity. Full article

Wild-growing edible mushrooms are known to bioaccumulate radionuclides from their environment, particularly the natural isotope potassium-40 (⁴⁰K) and anthropogenic cesium-137 (¹³⁷Cs). However, region-specific data for commercially relevant species in north-eastern Poland remain limited, despite the cultural and economic importance of mushroom foraging and export. This study aimed to assess the radiological safety of wild mushrooms intended for human consumption, with particular attention to regulatory compliance and potential exposure levels. In this study, 230 mushroom samples representing 19 wild edible species were analyzed using gamma spectrometry, alongside composite soil samples collected from corresponding foraging sites. The activity concentration of ¹³⁷Cs in mushrooms ranged from 0.94 to 159.0 Bq/kg fresh mass (f.m.), and that of ⁴⁰K from 64.4 to 150.2 Bq/kg f.m. None of the samples exceeded the regulatory limit of 1250 Bq/kg f.m. for ¹³⁷Cs. The highest estimated annual effective dose was 2.32 µSv from ¹³⁷Cs and 0.93 µSv from ⁴⁰K, with no exceedance of regulatory limits observed in any sample. A strong positive correlation was observed between ¹³⁷Cs activity in soil and mushroom dry mass (Spearman’s Rho = 0.81, p = 0.042), supporting predictable transfer patterns. Additionally, the implications of mushroom drying were assessed considering Council Regulation (Euratom) 2016/52, which mandates radionuclide levels in dried products be evaluated based on their reconstituted form. After such adjustment, even the most contaminated dried samples were found to comply with food safety limits. These findings confirm the radiological safety of wild mushrooms from north-eastern Poland and contribute novel data for a region with limited prior monitoring, in the context of current food safety regulations. Full article

Wild edible mushrooms (WEMs) are a popular delicacy in Thailand, prized for their unique flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Despite their widespread consumption, there is limited scientific research on their chemical compositions, biological activities, and potential health benefits. To bridge this knowledge gap, a comprehensive study was conducted on sixteen WEM species from ten families—Polyporaceae, Pleurotaceae, Russulaceae, Marasmiaceae, Pluteaceae, Boletinellaceae, Diplocystaceae, Lyophyllaceae, Psathyrellaceae, and Auriculariaceae—commonly found in northern Thailand. The proximate composition varied significantly among the WEM species, particularly in crude protein (12–51% w/w), crude fiber (1–30% w/w), and glucans (4–25% w/w). Astraeus odoratus exhibited the highest phenolic content, while P. cf. portentosus demonstrated the most potent antioxidant activity. WEM extracts also displayed notable inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase (5.82–79.43%) and α-amylase (1.30–90.79%). All extracts induced antioxidant regulators of Nrf2 and NQO1, suggesting that WEMs can help protect cells from oxidative stress, environmental toxins, and xenobiotics from food. Importantly, all extracts maintained high cell viability (>80%), indicating their safety for consumption. Furthermore, the mushrooms demonstrated a strong ability to reduce hepatotoxicity in HepG2 cells induced by tert-butyl hydrogen peroxide, highlighting their potential in preventing liver damage. This study not only underscores the nutritional and health benefits of WEMs but also establishes a vital scientific foundation for future research on their health effects and in vivo applications. In turn, these findings could serve as a crucial resource for optimizing the use of WEMs in ethnic cuisines and strengthening claims regarding their functional food properties. Full article

Fungal biodiversity and ethnomycological knowledge are fundamental components of the biocultural identity of communities within the La Malinche National Park (PNM), a region of ecological and cultural significance in Mexico. This study documented the diversity of wild fungi and their uses in San Miguel Canoa, Puebla, through field excursions with local mushroom gatherers, interviews, and qualitative analysis. Key species such as Russula delica, Boletus aff. edulis, and Amanita basii were identified, playing a vital role in local gastronomy with traditional recipes like mole and pipián. Intergenerational knowledge transmission, crucial for identifying edible fungi and avoiding intoxications, highlights the importance of oral tradition. However, deforestation, illegal logging, and land-use change threaten fungal diversity, a problem exacerbated by the lack of effective conservation policies. The discussion highlights the interplay between biodiversity and culture, emphasizing the significance of the Wild Mushroom Fair organized by the Yolaltepetl collective as an effort to disseminate ethnomycological knowledge and promote the conservation of the PNM. Such community-driven initiatives represent a sustainable model that integrates environmental protection with cultural strengthening. The study concludes that protecting the PNM requires a holistic approach, merging ecological conservation with the recognition of biocultural knowledge. This is essential to preserve both biodiversity and cultural heritage, ensuring their sustainability for future generations. Full article

Lactarius hatsudake is an economically important wild edible fungus in sub-tropical and temperate Asia. At present, little is known about its genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and population structure in natural environments. In this study, we collected 102 specimens from eight geographic locations across three provinces in southwest China. Five simple sequence repeat markers that demonstrated high polymorphism were developed and used to analyze the patterns of genetic variations within and among the eight geographic populations. Analyses of molecular variance revealed that 60% of the observed genetic variation occurred among populations, with the remaining 40% attributable to within populations, while inter-provincial variation was nonsignificant. Combined analyses based on discriminant analysis of principal components, STRUCTURE, and the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean identified two distinct genetic subpopulations with each genetic subpopulation showing a wide geographical distribution, a result consistent with ancient divergence and recent gene flow within this species in southwest China. Interestingly, excess homozygosity was observed at most loci in almost all of the eight geographic populations, consistent with inbreeding being common for this species in nature. Together, our results revealed the genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and geographic structuring of this important wild mushroom in southwest China. Full article

Edible mushrooms are macroscopic fungi that have been recognized as the “new superfoods” due to their high nutritional and medicinal values. The aim of this study was to develop and optimize a method for the wet digestion of edible mushrooms using a closed digestion block for the determination of macro- and micronutrients (Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Ni, and Zn) using microwave-induced plasma emission spectrometry (MIP OES). For the digestion of the samples, a 2³ factorial design was used to evaluate the amount of HNO₃ 65% (m m⁻¹), H₂O₂ 30% (m m⁻¹) and the digestion time, in 500 mg of the sample (dry and crushed) at 200° C. The method was applied to eleven species of edible or medicinal mushrooms (edible cultivated from wild strains, wild edible, and commercials medicinal). The average concentrations (in mg kg⁻¹) showed higher levels of K (1442.85–17,534.97), Mg (1295.40–13,550.72), Fe (11.33–27.38), Zn (28.86–36.09), and Mn (10.22–10.97). This study contributed to the determination of the multi-element composition and nutritional potential of edible mushrooms from Brazil. Full article

Auricularia mushrooms, common bulk edible fungi, have considerable culinary and medicinal value. The Qinling region, represented by Zhashui County, is the main production area of Auricularia mushrooms in China. In this study, two wild Auricularia strains, M12 and M13, selected from the Qinling region for their desirable horticultural traits after domestication, were sequenced and characterized. Sequencing assembly results based on Illumina NovaSeq and PacBio Sequel II HiFi showed that the M12 genome was 56.04 Mbp in size, with 2.58% heterozygosity and 14.13% repetitive sequences, and was anchored on 12 chromosomes using HI-C technology. In contrast, the M13 genome was 52.10 Mbp, showed 2.34% heterozygosity, 13.89% repetitive sequences, and was assembled into 12 scaffolds. Collinearity analysis revealed extensive homologous regions between the M12 and M13 genomes. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the divergence between M12 and M13 occurred approximately 4.575 million years ago (MYAs), while their divergence from Auricularia subglabra TFB-10046 SS5 occurred approximately 33.537 MYAs. Analyses of CYP450, carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), and gene family expansion/contraction revealed distinct genomic features between the two strains. SSR and LTR insertion time analyses revealed the genome dynamics of the two strains during their evolution. Analysis of secondary metabolite-associated biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) provides powerful clues to understand the origin of bioactive compounds in the Auricularia mushroom. This work represents the first genome sequencing of the Auricularia species derived from the Qinling region. These results not only enriched our understanding of the Auricularia genome but also provided an important genomic resource and theoretical basis for the subsequent genetic breeding, functional gene mining, and development of medicinal components of Auricularia species. Full article

Background/Objectives: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive dementia and brain accumulation of Aβ-peptide-containing plaques, gliosis, neuroimmune changes, and neurofibrillary tangles. Mushroom polysaccharides have been previously reported to have anti-neuroinflammation activity through the gut–brain axis. This study aimed to evaluate whether a dietary intervention with Phallus atrovolvatus, a recently identified edible mushroom in Thailand, could have a benefit on gut health and alleviate AD-related changes. Methods: Male and female 6–8-month-old littermate wild-type control (C57BL/6J) and App^NL−G−F mice were randomly assigned to either a control diet or a diet supplemented with mushroom aqueous extract (MAE) for 8 weeks to quantify changes in body weight, intestine, immune cells, short chain fatty acids, brain cytokines, amyloid-β (Aβ) levels, gliosis, and memory. Results: MAE had no adverse effects on gut leakiness and increased pyruvate levels in serum. Splenocyte immune profiling revealed a significant increase in the frequency of IgM⁺, IA_IE⁺, and CD14⁺ cells in MAE-administered App^NL−G−Ffemale mice compared to their vehicle controls. App^NL−G−Fmale mice that received MAE showed a significant increase in the frequency of cytotoxic CD8 T cells within the cervical lymph nodes compared to their wild-type counterparts. Aβ deposition and gliosis were significantly reduced in the hippocampi of the MAE-supplemented App^NL−G−F groups. However, MAE feeding did not alter spatial recognition memory in either sex or genotype compared to their vehicle groups. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that the administration of P. atrovolvatus aqueous extract showed neuroprotective potential against AD-related changes in the brain with no adverse impact on gut health and memory. Full article