Mass spectrometry analysis of beneficial compound profiles of medicinal mushrooms

Mushrooms represent a source of diverse medicinal compounds that have been exploited for centuries. Beneficial compounds have proven efficacy against disease, including anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-tumoral, anti-bacterial traits. These compounds, along with potential for new discoveries, drive the exploration of mushrooms as a powerful medicinal source and supports their application in the health sector to discover new treatments against disease. Moreover, the increased accessibility and popularity of medicinal mushrooms requires a thorough understanding of the properties and present within different mushroom species and their potential influence on the consumer. In this proposal, we will evaluate the production of beneficial compounds and nutrient availability within medicinal mushrooms under a variety of environmental growth conditions. We will use the information collected to advise our industrial partner, Wake Network Inc. of optimal growth conditions to promote production of the beneficial compounds.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jennifer Geddes-McAlister

Student:

Reid Buchanan

Partner:

Wake Network Inc.

Discipline:

Biochemistry / Molecular biology

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Guelph