Scientists are using cutting-edge genetic techniques to discover what made mushrooms become magic. Compounds found in so-called magic mushrooms are recognised for their potential to treat mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, compulsive disorders and addiction.
But little is known about how and why such compounds evolved. Scientists at the University of Plymouth are using advanced genetic methods and behavioural experiments to investigate previously untested hypotheses into the origins of psychedelic compounds in fungi.
Scientists will look into whether the compounds were evolved as a defence mechanism, or if fungi produce them to be able to manipulate the behaviour of insects. Dr Jon Ellis, lecturer in conservation genetics at the University of Plymouth, said: “In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in psychedelic compounds from a human health perspective.
