Daily News Analysis

Mushroom derived bioactive compounds

stylish_lining

Context: Natural anti-infective, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic products derived from a wide range of easily SOURCEd mushrooms and their bioactive molecules have the potential to combat covid, according to a new paper.

News:

Bioactive Ingredients and Immune System Boost:

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted increased research on bioactive compounds to enhance the immune system's response to SARS-CoV-2.

Focus on Herbal Sources and Mushrooms:

Scientists globally turned attention to bioactive compounds from herbal Sources and edible mushrooms due to their accessibility, high antioxidant activity, nutritional value, and minimal side effects.

Mushrooms in North-East India:

North-East India is home to diverse edible mushrooms, drawing interest for their potential health benefits.

Bioactive Properties of Mushrooms:

Mushrooms contain bioactive polysaccharides and compounds with immunomodulating, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

Advantages of Edible Mushrooms:

Edible mushrooms offer advantages such as being nutraceutical supplements with no side effects and acting as immunity boosters.

Mushroom

  • Mushrooms, also referred to as toadstools, are the reproductive structures of fungi, characterized by fleshy and spore-bearing fruiting bodies.
  • Typically found above ground, mushrooms grow on soil or their nutrient SOURCE.
  • The term 'toadstool' is often used for fungi considered toxic, while 'mushroom' categorizes fungi deemed safe for consumption.
  • Mushrooms lack chlorophyll, distinguishing them from plants, and they do not undergo photosynthesis.
  • Instead of photosynthesis, mushrooms obtain nutrients either through the decomposition of organic matter or by forming symbiotic relationships with plants, especially through mycorrhizal fungi.

Nutritional Benefits of Mushrooms:

  • Mushrooms offer nutritional advantages as they are low in calories and fat.
  • Mushrooms are a good SOURCE of protein, fibre, and various essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Essential nutrients include B vitamins (riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid) and minerals (selenium, potassium, copper).
  • Mushrooms contain various beneficial compounds, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances.
  • These compounds contribute to potential health benefits.
  • The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in mushrooms may aid in protecting against chronic diseases.
  • Conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease may be mitigated by the consumption of mushrooms.
  • Certain mushroom species, like shiitake mushrooms, are renowned for their potential health benefits.
  • Some mushrooms have a history of use in traditional medicine for their potential medicinal properties.
  • For instance, reishi mushrooms are believed to enhance the immune system and possess anti-inflammatory characteristics.
  • Lion’s mane mushrooms have properties that may enhance brain function and support nerve regeneration.

Visakhapatnam Declaration on e-Governance

The Visakhapatnam Declaration on e-Governance marks a significant step in the development of digital governance in India, emphasizing inclusive, transparent, and citizen-centric practices. Adopted
Share It

Defamation in India

Recently, a Supreme Court judge raised concerns about the increasing misuse of defamation laws by political figures and private individuals to settle personal and political disputes. The judge sug
Share It

Simultaneous Elections

India's ongoing debate about simultaneous elections or the One Nation, One Election concept has gained momentum, with experts like Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, e
Share It

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) 2025 Summit

The 2025 SCO Heads of State Summit was held in Tianjin, China, marking a significant moment for the organization’s expanding role on the global stage. Key Highlights: Terrorism:
Share It

Production Gap Report 2025

The Production Gap Report 2025 reveals a troubling trend: many countries are planning to increase fossil fuel production well beyond the levels needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C as per t
Share It

India's Roadmap for Fusion Power

India's Institute for Plasma Research (IPR) in Gandhinagar has recently proposed a comprehensive roadmap for the development of fusion power, marking a significant leap towards harnessing fusi
Share It

Dhvani Missile

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is on the verge of a historic milestone with the upcoming test of Dhvani, a next-generation hypersonic missile that is set to prope
Share It

Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025

India has made remarkable strides in the field of innovation, moving up from 48th position in 2020 to 38th in 2025 among 139 global economies, according to the World Intellectual Property Organiza
Share It

Critical Minerals

India’s first auction of deep-sea blocks for the extraction of critical minerals has been delayed indefinitely after receiving a poor response from bidders. This auction was expected to be a
Share It

CAG Report on States’ Fiscal Health

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has released its first decadal analysis on the fiscal health of 28 Indian states, revealing significant concerns over the increasing public debt.
Share It

Newsletter Subscription


ACQ IAS
ACQ IAS