Genome sequencing progenies of magic mushrooms (Psilocybe subaeruginosa) identifies tetrapolar mating and gene duplications in the psilocybin pathway
Fungal Genetics and Biology December 29, 2022 Alistair R. Mctaggart, Timothy Y. James, Jason C. Slot et al. 13 citations
Mating in the psilocybin-producing mushroom Psilocybe subaeruginosa is controlled by a tetrapolar system, with compatibility determined by a homeodomain locus (containing one copy each of HD1 and HD2) and a pheromone/receptor locus (with four homologs of the receptor gene STE3). Two additional pheromone/receptor loci homologous to STE3 do not appear to regulate mating. Alleles in the psilocybin gene cluster were homozygous in the parent and did not vary among five haploid siblings. The species and its relatives carry three copies of PsiH genes, but their effect on psilocybin production is unknown. Genetic improvement requires access to diversity from species' centers of origin, identification of trait genes, and strategies to avoid inbreeding depression.