The evolution and ecology of psilocybin in nature.
Fungal genetics and biology : FG & B June 1, 2023 Matthew Meyer, Jason Slot 28 citations
Fungi produce diverse metabolites, including psilocybin and related tryptamine-derived compounds called psiloids, which have antimicrobial, antifungal, antifeedant, or psychoactive properties. The high nitrogen allocation to psiloids in mushrooms, along with convergent evolution and horizontal gene transfer, suggests a selective benefit, but no precise ecological roles have been experimentally determined. Structural and functional similarities of psiloids to serotonin, an essential neurotransmitter in animals, indicate they may enhance fungal fitness through interference with serotonergic processes, though other mechanisms have been proposed. This review examines literature on psilocybin ecology and proposes potential adaptive advantages psiloids may confer to fungi.