Taking Different Roads: l‐Tryptophan as the Origin of Psilocybe Natural Products

Psilocybe fungi, known as magic mushrooms, produce psilocybin from the amino acid L-tryptophan. Recent research shows these fungi have a more varied secondary metabolism derived from this amino acid. This review describes psilocybin and related compounds, including blue-colored psilocyl oligomers, beta-carbolines, and N,N-dimethyl-L-tryptophan, along with current knowledge of their biosynthesis. The work covers pharmacological, medicinal, ecological, biochemical, and evolutionary aspects of these natural products.

Study at a glance

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.