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

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 beta-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.

Automated summary

Psilocybe fungi, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are famous for their major natural product psilocybin derived from l-tryptophan, but recent research has shown a more diverse secondary metabolism originating from this amino acid. This minireview highlights l-tryptophan and various Psilocybe natural products, including psilocybin, blue-colored psilocyl oligomers, beta-carbolines, and N,N-dimethyl-l-tryptophan, with insights into their biosynthesis.