Australian researchers have analyzed the genetic makeup of over 100 strains of Psilocybe cubensis, a psychoactive mushroom commonly known as the magic mushroom, encompassing both commercially cultivated and wild varieties. The outcomes of this analysis hold the promise of facilitating the cultivation of “designer mushrooms” with distinctive health benefits, according to the research team.
In the analysis, researchers from the University of Queensland sought to deepen their understanding of the diverse varieties of naturally occurring Psilocybe cubensis and the evolutionary impact of human domestication on this fungus. Collaborating with an underground community of magic mushroom cultivators, the team amassed 122 samples, encompassing 86 commercially cultivated strains and 38 varieties thriving in the wild in Australia. Subsequently, the researchers sequenced and compared the genetic profiles of these strains.
The research findings, disclosed in the journal Current Biology, revealed a notable reduction in genetic diversity among commercially cultivated strains compared to their wild counterparts—a common consequence of domestication. Additionally, the researchers unearthed evidence suggesting that Australian varieties had undergone a process of naturalization, originating from fungi introduced to the continent from external sources.
The heightened genetic diversity observed in contemporary naturalized fungi implies a recovery from the observed lack of variation in commercialized cultivars.
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The historical use of psychedelic mushrooms spans potentially thousands of years, with the principal psychoactive compound, psilocybin, influencing the human brain. While numerous mushrooms contain psilocybin, Psilocybe cubensis stands out as the most prevalent species subject to commercial cultivation today. While extensive research is essential to confirm the medicinal advantages of psilocybin-assisted therapy, a considerable number of individuals are presently utilizing magic mushrooms for varied purposes.
Beyond unraveling the genetic history of these psychedelic mushrooms, the research conducted by McTaggart and his team sheds light on potential future developments. Unique genetic variations associated with psilocybin production were identified in naturalized mushrooms, offering prospects for the creation of “designer mushrooms” selectively bred for variations in the natural synthesis of psilocybin.
Building upon their findings, the authors of the study have established a new company named Funky Mushroom, leveraging their research to cultivate distinct cultivars of psychedelic mushrooms for ongoing research and pharmaceutical development.
Dr. McTaggart expressed that “magic mushrooms are the cheapest source of psilocybin and may fill a niche in natural drug development,” emphasizing the potential for these unique cultivars to contribute to the understanding of compounds beyond psilocybin that impact the overall psychedelic experience—a captivating avenue for future exploration.
The age of the ‘designer mushroom’ may be upon us. Stay tuned.