Taking Different Roads: l‐Tryptophan as the Origin of Psilocybe Natural Products
Claudius Lenz, Alexander M. Sherwood, Robert B. Kargbo, Dirk Hoffmeister
ChemPlusChem October 1, 2020 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202000581 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Natural product Tryptophan Biochemistry Amino acid Pharmacology Hallucinogen Alkaloids |
| Citations | 40 |
| Key findings | Psilocybe fungi produce a diverse range of natural products derived from L-tryptophan, including psilocybin, psilocyl oligomers, beta-carbolines, and N,N-dimethyl-L-tryptophan. |
Abstract
Abstract Psychotropic fungi of the genus Psilocybe , colloquially referred to as „magic mushrooms”, are best known for their l ‐tryptophan‐derived major natural product, psilocybin. Yet, recent research has revealed a more diverse secondary metabolism that originates from this amino acid. In this minireview, the focus is laid on l ‐tryptophan and the various Psilocybe natural products and their metabolic routes are highlighted. Psilocybin and its congeners, the heterogeneous blue‐colored psilocyl oligomers, alongside β‐carbolines and N , N ‐dimethyl‐ l ‐tryptophan, are presented as well as current knowledge on their biosynthesis is provided. The multidisciplinary character of natural product research is demonstrated, and pharmacological, medicinal, ecological, biochemical, and evolutionary aspects are included.