A groundbreaking discovery has been made by a junior undergraduate student at West Virginia University (WVU) that has left mycologists astounded. Corinne Hazel, an environmental microbiology major, stumbled upon a mystery fungus that bears similarities to lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a hallucinogenic compound with both recreational and therapeutic uses. The newly identified species, named Periglandula clandestina, could potentially offer therapeutic benefits similar to LSD, such as treating addiction, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The discovery of Periglandula clandestina came about unexpectedly while Hazel was working in the lab with WVU mycologist Daniel Panaccione. Initially studying how morning glory plants disperse ergot alkaloids through their roots, Hazel noticed a fungus growing on the plants. Ergot alkaloids, produced exclusively by fungi, are known to have various effects and are often found in grains. Morning glories have a symbiotic relationship with fungi that produce ergot alkaloids, leading to the intriguing discovery of the fungus.
After preparing a DNA sample from the newfound fungus and sending it for genome sequencing, it was confirmed to be a new species. This significant achievement in sequencing the genome was highlighted by Panaccione, recognizing the remarkable work done by a student.
The discovery of Periglandula clandestina holds historical significance, as it sheds light on a mystery that dates back to the invention of LSD by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann in the late 1930s. Hofmann hypothesized that a fungus in morning glories could produce alkaloids similar to those in LSD, but the exact species remained elusive until now.
While ergot alkaloids can be toxic if not used in the correct dose, they are also utilized in treating various medical conditions such as migraines, dementia, uterine hemorrhaging, and Parkinson’s disease. The newly discovered Periglandula clandestina has shown high efficiency in producing ergot alkaloids in large quantities, making it a potential candidate for future pharmaceutical developments.
Matt Kasson, a WVU mycologist not involved in the study, emphasized the significance of successfully cultivating these fungi, as many fungi living in close association with their hosts are challenging to culture. The cultivation of Periglandula clandestina marks a significant step forward in understanding its biology.
The name Periglandula clandestina pays tribute to the elusive nature of the fungus that has baffled scientists for decades. Moving forward, Hazel plans to explore the most effective methods for culturing this slow-growing fungus and investigate whether other morning glory species harbor ergot alkaloids from undiscovered fungal symbiotes.
Hazel expressed her gratitude for stumbling upon this groundbreaking discovery, acknowledging the years of search for the elusive fungus finally coming to fruition. The collaborative effort between Hazel, Panaccione, and the team underscores the importance of seizing opportunities and utilizing talent and expertise to advance scientific knowledge in the field of mycology. After spending years at West Virginia University (WVU), I can confidently say that I am very proud of the work that I have done here. From academic achievements to personal growth, my time at WVU has been incredibly rewarding.
One of the highlights of my journey at WVU has been the opportunity to immerse myself in a diverse and vibrant academic community. The faculty and staff at WVU are dedicated to providing students with a challenging and enriching educational experience. Through my coursework and research projects, I have been able to expand my knowledge and skills in ways that I never thought possible.
Furthermore, my time at WVU has allowed me to engage in various extracurricular activities that have helped me develop as a well-rounded individual. Whether it was participating in student organizations, volunteering in the community, or attending campus events, I have truly cherished the opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery that WVU has provided.
In addition to academic and personal growth, WVU has also been a place where I have formed lasting friendships and professional connections. The sense of camaraderie and support within the WVU community is truly unparalleled, and I am grateful to have been a part of such a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Looking back on my time at WVU, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude for all that I have accomplished and experienced. The knowledge, skills, and memories that I have gained during my time here will undoubtedly stay with me for a lifetime. I am excited to see where my journey takes me next, but I will always carry with me the lessons and experiences that I have gained at WVU.
Overall, I am incredibly proud of the work that I have done at WVU, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this institution has provided me. WVU will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the world with the foundation that I have built here.
