Biotransformation of Tryptamine in Fruiting Mycelia ofPsilocybe cubensis
Planta Medica – June 01, 1989
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
*Psilocybe cubensis* mycelial cultures demonstrate remarkable biotransformation, converting fed tryptamine into psilocin at unprecedented levels—up to 3.3% dry mass in fruit bodies. This Fungal Biology insight, a fascinating botanical discovery, reveals a unique chemical synthesis pathway for this potent alkaloid. While psilocybin content in these mushrooms is modest (0.01-0.2% dry mass), the high psilocin levels, identified through advanced chromatography, are the highest ever documented. This discovery is significant for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, highlighting the intricate Chemistry and Biology involved in fungal alkaloid production and its stereochemistry.
Abstract
Mycelial cultures of PSILOCYBE CUBENSIS, with the ability to form psilocybin and psilocin DE-NOVO, also hydroxylated and methylated fed tryptamine to give psilocin in up to 3.3% dry mass of the obtained fruit bodies. By using HPLC and TLC, it was found that these mushrooms contain only a small amount of psilocybin (0.01-0.2% dry mass). The values of psilocin are the highest described in any mushrooms.