>>An exciting new study, led by a team of Australian researchers, has discovered a unique fungus in Tasmania that produces novel molecules with similar activity to opioids. The research suggests this never-before-seen molecule could have similar analgesic properties to morphine but without its dangerous, respiration-suppressing, side effects.

Discovered around 16 years ago near a boat ramp in Tasmania’s Huon Valley, this previously unknown genus of Penicillium was found to produce several molecules that had never been seen before. These compounds are known as tetrapeptides, and the newly discovered fungus seemed to produce three kinds of tetrapeptides with entirely novel molecular structures.<<

https://newatlas.com/science/rare-tasmanian-fungus-pain-relief-opioids-alternative/

PermeateFree said:

>>An exciting new study, led by a team of Australian researchers, has discovered a unique fungus in Tasmania that produces novel molecules with similar activity to opioids. The research suggests this never-before-seen molecule could have similar analgesic properties to morphine but without its dangerous, respiration-suppressing, side effects.

Discovered around 16 years ago near a boat ramp in Tasmania’s Huon Valley, this previously unknown genus of Penicillium was found to produce several molecules that had never been seen before. These compounds are known as tetrapeptides, and the newly discovered fungus seemed to produce three kinds of tetrapeptides with entirely novel molecular structures.<<

https://newatlas.com/science/rare-tasmanian-fungus-pain-relief-opioids-alternative/

:-)

Indian Ghost Pipes

::and more::

Ogmog said:

Indian Ghost Pipes

::and more::

>>Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a mycoheterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult. <<

>>It was formerly classified in the family Monotropaceae, but is now included within the Ericaceae. << Which makes it a member of the Heath Family. Crazy.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monotropa_uniflora

PermeateFree said:

Ogmog said:

Indian Ghost Pipes

::and more::

>>Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a mycoheterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult. <<

>>It was formerly classified in the family Monotropaceae, but is now included within the Ericaceae. << Which makes it a member of the Heath Family. Crazy.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monotropa_uniflora

That really is fascinating

PermeateFree said:

Ogmog said:

Indian Ghost Pipes

::and more::

>>Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a mycoheterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest. It is often associated with beech trees. The complex relationship that allows this plant to grow also makes propagation difficult. <<

>>It was formerly classified in the family Monotropaceae, but is now included within the Ericaceae. << Which makes it a member of the Heath Family. Crazy.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monotropa_uniflora

Very interesting, thanks.