Taking Different Roads: l‐Tryptophan as the Origin of Psilocybe Natural Products
ChemPlusChem – October 01, 2020
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
While psilocybin is the most recognized psychedelic natural product from "magic mushrooms," recent insights reveal a surprisingly diverse biochemistry. Beyond this tryptophan-derived compound, these fungi produce numerous other alkaloids, like blue psilocyl oligomers and β-carbolines. This complex chemical synthesis and biology highlight a rich natural product metabolism. Such discoveries in Psilocybe chemistry inform pharmacology and drug studies, expanding our understanding of these potent alkaloids and their synthesis.
Abstract
Abstract Psychotropic fungi of the genus Psilocybe , colloquially referred to as „magic mushrooms”, are best known for their l ‐tryptophan‐derived major natural product, psilocybin. Yet, recent research has revealed a more diverse secondary metabolism that originates from this amino acid. In this minireview, the focus is laid on l ‐tryptophan and the various Psilocybe natural products and their metabolic routes are highlighted. Psilocybin and its congeners, the heterogeneous blue‐colored psilocyl oligomers, alongside β‐carbolines and N , N ‐dimethyl‐ l ‐tryptophan, are presented as well as current knowledge on their biosynthesis is provided. The multidisciplinary character of natural product research is demonstrated, and pharmacological, medicinal, ecological, biochemical, and evolutionary aspects are included.