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Copyright of Mycosystema is the property of Mycosystema Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Morels (Morchella sp. pl.) are valuable mushrooms, and their applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries has steadily increased in China.White mold disease is a common and severe disease in the culturing of morels, which is mainly manifested as white villous mycelial infection on the fruiting bodies of these mushrooms. However, the causal agent is not yet known. Therefore, this study aims to identify, at the species level, the causal pathogen of this disease via morphological and molecular methods and then to confirm its pathogenicity through Koch's postulates. The pathogen was identified as Neonectria candida. Healthy ascocarps were inoculated with N. candida, which produced the initial disease symptoms with white mold appearing at the inoculation sites. The same pathogen was then isolated again from diseased ascocarps. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Morchella importuna ascocarps with white mold disease caused by N. candida in China. Moreover, this report will inform the establishment of sustainable management strategies for white mold disease in morels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food fraud is a problematic yet common phenomenon in the food industry. It impacts numerous sectors, including the market of edible mushrooms. Morel mushrooms are prized worldwide for their culinary and medicinal use. They represent a taxonomically complex group in which food fraud has already been reported. Among the methods to evaluate food fraud, some rely on comparisons of genetic sequences obtained from a sample to existing databases. However, the quality and usefulness of the results are limited by the type of comparison tool and the quality of the database used. The Centroid‐based approach is applied by SmartGene in a proprietary artificial intelligence‐based method for the generation of automatically curated reference databases that can be further expert curated. In this study, using sequences of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of the genus Morchella (true morels), we compared this approach to the traditional pairwise alignment tool using two other databases: UNITE and Mycobank (MLST). The Centroid‐based approach using an expert‐curated database was more performant for the identification of 53 representative ITS sequences corresponding to validated species (83% accuracy, compared to 36% and 47% accuracy for UNITE and MLST, respectively). The Centroid method also revealed an inaccurate taxonomic annotation for sequences of commercial cultivars submitted to public databases. Combined with the web‐based commercial software IDNS® available at Smartgene, the Centroid‐based approach constitutes a valuable tool to ensure the quality of morel products on the market for actors of the food industry. Practical Application: The Centroid‐based approach can be used by agri‐food actors who need to identify true morels down to the species level without any prior taxonomical knowledge. These include routine laboratories of the food industry, food distributors, and public surveillance agencies. This is a reliable method that requires minimal skills and resources, therefore being particularly adapted for nonspecialists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

True morels (Morchella spp.) are renowned for their aroma and taste, and hot air drying is widely used to extend the shelf life of harvested morels. However, the effects of different drying temperatures on volatile flavor compounds and non-volatile metabolites in the morel are poorly understood. Here, fresh morels (Morchella sextelata) were air-dried at low (45 °C, LT), medium (55 °C, MT), and high temperatures (65 °C, HT). The volatile flavor compounds and non-volatile metabolites were analyzed using GC-IMS and LC-MS/MS, respectively. The GC-IMS revealed that aldehydes, hydrocarbons, and pyrazines increased at greater temperatures, while acids, alcohols, and esters decreased. Random forest machine learning indicated that 1-hexanol and ethyl 3-methylbutanoate were indicative flavor compounds at LTs, while those at MTs and HTs were hexanal and valeraldehyde, respectively. Greater temperatures reduced acetic acid, an unpleasant sour flavor. The LC-MS/MS showed that the relative abundance of amino acids and nucleotides increased with the temperature, with the same trend in 5′-nucleotides and flavor amino acids. Sorbitol 6-phosphate was indicative of the non-volatile metabolites at LTs, while several amino acids were indicative at MTs and HTs. This study revealed the flavor and taste characteristics of morels dried at different temperatures, providing a theoretical reference for establishing a standardized postharvest morel drying process and maintaining morel quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During March-April 2023, a total of 51 persons reported mild to severe gastrointestinal illness after eating at restaurant A in Bozeman, Montana. The outbreak resulted in multiple severe outcomes, including three hospitalizations and two deaths. After an inspection and temporary restaurant closure, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and Montana's Gallatin City-County Health Department collaborated with CDC to conduct a matched case-control study among restaurant patrons to help identify the source of the outbreak. Consumption of morel mushrooms, which are generally considered edible, was strongly associated with gastrointestinal illness. A dose-response relationship was identified, and consumption of raw morel mushrooms was more strongly associated with illness than was consumption of those that were at least partially cooked. In response to the outbreak, educational public messaging regarding morel mushroom preparation and safety was shared through multiple media sources. The investigation highlights the importance of prompt cross-agency communication and collaboration, the utility of epidemiologic studies in foodborne disease outbreak investigations, and the need for additional research about the impact of morel mushroom consumption on human health. Although the toxins in morel mushrooms that might cause illness are not fully understood, proper preparation procedures, including thorough cooking, might help to limit adverse health effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

True morels (Morchella spp.) are renowned for their aroma and taste, and hot air drying is widely used to extend the shelf life of harvested morels. However, the effects of different drying temperatures on volatile flavor compounds and non-volatile metabolites in the morel are poorly understood. Here, fresh morels (Morchella sextelata) were air-dried at low (45 °C, LT), medium (55 °C, MT), and high temperatures (65 °C, HT). The volatile flavor compounds and non-volatile metabolites were analyzed using GC-IMS and LC-MS/MS, respectively. The GC-IMS revealed that aldehydes, hydrocarbons, and pyrazines increased at greater temperatures, while acids, alcohols, and esters decreased. Random forest machine learning indicated that 1-hexanol and ethyl 3-methylbutanoate were indicative flavor compounds at LTs, while those at MTs and HTs were hexanal and valeraldehyde, respectively. Greater temperatures reduced acetic acid, an unpleasant sour flavor. The LC-MS/MS showed that the relative abundance of amino acids and nucleotides increased with the temperature, with the same trend in 5′-nucleotides and flavor amino acids. Sorbitol 6-phosphate was indicative of the non-volatile metabolites at LTs, while several amino acids were indicative at MTs and HTs. This study revealed the flavor and taste characteristics of morels dried at different temperatures, providing a theoretical reference for establishing a standardized postharvest morel drying process and maintaining morel quality.

Morels are one of the most highly prized edible and medicinal mushrooms worldwide. Therefore, historically, there has been a large international interest in their cultivation. Numerous ecological, physiological, genetic, taxonomic, and mycochemical studies have been previously developed. At the beginning of this century, China finally achieved artificial cultivation and started a high-scale commercial development in 2012. Due to its international interest, its cultivation scale and area expanded rapidly in this country. However, along with the massive industrial scale, a number of challenges, including the maintenance of steady economic profits, arise. In order to contribute to the solution of these challenges, formal research studying selection, species recognition, strain aging, mating type structure, life cycle, nutrient metabolism, growth and development, and multi-omics has recently been boosted. This paper focuses on discussing current morel cultivation technologies, the industrial status of cultivation in China, and the relevance of basic biological research, including, e.g., the study of strain characteristics, species breeding, mating type structure, and microbial interactions. The main challenges related to the morel cultivation industry on a large scale are also analyzed. It is expected that this review will promote a steady global development of the morel industry based on permanent and robust basic scientific knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ascomycetes in the genus Morchella (commonly called morels) have a considerable economic and biotechnological value for their culinary and medicinal proprieties. However, their biotechnological interest is not limited to the fruiting body cultivation, but also in mycelial production to obtain bioactive compounds and other biotech products. In order to better exploit the biotechnological potentialities of morels it is necessary to improve the knowledge on their biology and mycelial characteristics. In this paper morphological and growth characteristics of mycelia, as well as biomass formation of Italian collections of five edible medicinal Morchella species [M. esculenta (L.) Pers., M. dunalii Boud., M. importuna M. Kuo, O'Donnell & T.J. Volk, M. disparilis Loizides & P.-A. Moreau and M. purpurascens (Krombh. ex Boud.) Jacquet.] are presented.

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) India, harbours a rich diversity of mushrooms, but sporadic work has been carried out till date to explore the morel mushroom diversity. Besides, only a few morel species have been identified based on classical taxonomic studies, and taxonomic confusion exists regarding the differentiation and classification of morel mushrooms. Keeping this in mind, the present research aimed to analyse the geographical distribution and taxonomic revision of true morels from North Kashmir using modern phylogenetic tree analysis along with classical phenetic approaches. In this study, 11 collections of true morels, identified as Morchella esculenta, Morchella crassipes, Morchella vulgaris, Morchella tridentina, Morchella elata and Morchella kaibabensis, were found widely distributed in 16 sampling study sites. The true morels were found to be extensively distributed in the Kupwara district, followed by Baramulla, but were less common in the Bandipora district, J&K. To the best of our knowledge, the documented species M. vulgaris, M. tridentina and M. kaibabensis have not been recorded earlier from the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Wild edible mushrooms (WEM) are economically significant and used in traditional medicines worldwide. The region of Jammu and Kashmir (Western Himalayas) is enriched with the diversity of edible mushrooms, collected by the rural people for food and income generation. This is the first detailed study on diversity and ethno-medicinal uses of mushrooms from the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Methods Consecutive surveys were conducted to record ethnomycological diversity and socio-economic importance of wild edible mushrooms value chain in rural areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir during 2015–2019. Ethnomycological data were collected with a semi-structured questionnaire having a set of questions on indigenous mycological knowledge and collection and retailing of wild edible mushrooms. A total of 923 informants from the study area provided the results identifying the gender, type of mushroom species, medicinal uses, and marketing of mushrooms. Diversity of mushrooms was studied by using quadrat and transect methods. Principal component analysis (PCA) and detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) were also applied to the dataset to analyse the relationship between species distribution, the underlying environmental factors, and habitat types. PCA identified the major species-specific to the sites and put them close to the sites of distribution. Results A total of 131 mushroom species were collected and identified during 2015–2019 from the study area. Ninety-seven species of mushrooms were reported new to the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The dominant mushroom family was Russulaceae with 23 species followed by Agaricaceae, 16 species. Major mushroom species identified and grouped by the PCA were Coprinus comatus, Lactarius sanguifluus, Amanita fulva, Armillaria gallica, Lycoperdon perlatum, Lycoperdon pyriforme, and Russula creminicolor. Sparassis crispa, Pleurotus sp, and Laetiporus sulphureus were recorded most edible and medicinally significant fungi. Morels were also expensive and medicinally important among all harvested macro-fungal species. These were reported to use against common ailments and various health problems. Conclusions Collection and retailing of WEM contribute to improving the socio-economic status, providing alternative employment and food security to rural people of the area. These mushrooms are used as a source of food and traditional medicines among the rural informants and could be used as a potential source of antibacterial and anticancer drugs in the future.

Morels are valuable mushrooms being used as foods and medical substances for a long history. The commonly cultivated morel species include M. eximia, M. importuna, and M. sextelata in China, M. conica and M. esculenta in the US. Morels' nutritional profile mainly consists of carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and organic acids, which are also responsible for its complex sensory attributes and health benefits. The bioactive compounds in morels including polysaccharides, phenolics, tocopherols, and ergosterols contribute to the anti-oxidative abilities, anti-inflammation, immunoprotection, gut health preservation, and anti-cancer abilities. This review depicted on the cultivation of morels, major bioactive compounds of different morel species both from fruit bodies and mycelia, and their health benefits to provide a comprehensive understanding of morels and support the future research and applications of morels as high-value functional food sources.

The ascomycetes in the genus Morchella (commonly called morels) have a considerable economic and biotechnological value for their culinary and medicinal proprieties. However, their biotechnological interest is not limited to the fruiting body cultivation, but also in mycelial production to obtain bioactive compounds and other biotech products. In order to better exploit the biotechnological potentialities of morels it is necessary to improve the knowledge on their biology and mycelial characteristics. In this paper morphological and growth characteristics of mycelia, as well as biomass formation of Italian collections of five edible medicinal Morchella species [M. esculenta (L.) Pers., M. dunalii Boud., M. importuna M. Kuo, O'Donnell & T.J. Volk, M. disparilis Loizides & P.-A. Moreau and M. purpurascens (Krombh. ex Boud.) Jacquet.] are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels are one of the most highly prized edible and medicinal mushrooms worldwide. Therefore, historically, there has been a large international interest in their cultivation. Numerous ecological, physiological, genetic, taxonomic, and mycochemical studies have been previously developed. At the beginning of this century, China finally achieved artificial cultivation and started a high-scale commercial development in 2012. Due to its international interest, its cultivation scale and area expanded rapidly in this country. However, along with the massive industrial scale, a number of challenges, including the maintenance of steady economic profits, arise. In order to contribute to the solution of these challenges, formal research studying selection, species recognition, strain aging, mating type structure, life cycle, nutrient metabolism, growth and development, and multi-omics has recently been boosted. This paper focuses on discussing current morel cultivation technologies, the industrial status of cultivation in China, and the relevance of basic biological research, including, e.g., the study of strain characteristics, species breeding, mating type structure, and microbial interactions. The main challenges related to the morel cultivation industry on a large scale are also analyzed. It is expected that this review will promote a steady global development of the morel industry based on permanent and robust basic scientific knowledge.

Transcriptomics was carried out to analyze the molecular mechanisms of browning that occurred in morels at the storage conditions of 20 °C and 4 °C. During storage, with the browning process, 14 significantly differential expression genes were found to relate to the browning process of morels. In which, 10 genes were upregulated and 4 genes downregulated, and they were mainly enriched in the tyrosine metabolism pathway, shikimate pathway, and MAPK signaling pathway. Notably, the gene expression of the tyrosinase was largely upregulated after browning, compared to the fresh sample, which was also confirmed by qPCR validation. In addition, the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) were significantly increased, but activities and gene expressions of anti-oxidation enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were decreased after storage. These results indicated that Tyr/SK/MAPK metabolic pathways were important to the browning of morels. The reduced antioxidant capacity concomitant with the storage might also contribute to the browning process of morels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels are highly prized edible fungi where sexual reproduction is essential for fruiting-body production. As a result, a comprehensive understanding of their sexual reproduction is of great interest. Central to this is the identification of the reproductive strategies used by morels. Sexual reproduction in fungi is controlled by mating-type (MAT) genes and morels are thought to be mainly heterothallic with two idiomorphs, MAT1-1 and MAT1-2. Genomic sequencing of black (Elata clade) and yellow (Esculenta clade) morel species has led to the development of PCR primers designed to amplify genes from the two idiomorphs for rapid genotyping of isolates from these two clades. To evaluate the design and theoretical performance of these primers we performed a thorough bioinformatic investigation, including the detection of the MAT region in publicly available Morchella genomes and in-silico PCR analyses. All examined genomes, including those used for primer design, appeared to be heterothallic. This indicates an inherent fault in the original primer design which utilized a single Morchella genome, as the use of two genomes with complementary mating types would be required to design accurate primers for both idiomorphs. Furthermore, potential off-targets were identified for some of the previously published primer sets, but verification was challenging due to lack of adequate genomic information and detailed methodologies for primer design. Examinations of the black morel specific primer pairs (MAT11L/R and MAT22L/R) indicated the MAT22 primers would correctly target and amplify the MAT1-2 idiomorph, but the MAT11 primers appear to be capable of amplifying incorrect off-targets within the genome. The yellow morel primer pairs (EMAT1-1 L/R and EMAT1-2 L/R) appear to have reporting errors, as the published primer sequences are dissimilar with reported amplicon sequences and the EMAT1-2 primers appear to amplify the RNA polymerase II subunit (RPB2) gene. The lack of the reference genome used in primer design and descriptive methodology made it challenging to fully assess the apparent issues with the primers for this clade. In conclusion, additional work is still required for the generation of reliable primers to investigate mating types in morels and to assess their performance on different clades and across multiple geographical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

【Objective】The present paper aimed to find an antimicrobial material that could be used to control the disease（rot disease caused by Diploöspora longispora） of morels. 【Method】Triclosan（TCS） was an antimicrobial agent widely used in oral care products and might have an inhibitory effect on the fungal disease of morels. The medium was prepared by adding different concentrations of TCS（0-100 mg/L）, with both sterilized and unsterilized treatments, the effect of TCS on the mycelial growth of Morchella sextelata and the inhibitory effect against undesired microbes in the medium were observed. Then, the sterilized medium with different concentrations of TCS（0-40 mg/L） were inoculated with D. longispora and M. sextelata, and the mycelial growths of the two strains were observed under different TCS concentrations, and the microstructure of D. longispora mycelium, M. sextelata mycelium and D. longispora spores were observed using a light microscopy. A preliminary comparative test of TCS spraying was conducted in the field. 40 mg/L TCS suspension was sprayed directly onto morels with symptoms of rot disease. 【Result】TCS was able to inhibit the growth of undesired microbes on unsterilized media. The mycelial length of D. longispora decreased with the increase of TCS concentration, and the conidia of D. longispora ruptured with contents exudation when the TCS concentration was 40 mg/L. In the preliminary comparative test, one week after the spraying of TCS, the infection range of D. longispora did not expand, and there was no spread of infection. 【Conclusion】 TCS can be tried as an antimicrobial agent for the control of rot disease of Morels at suitable concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wild edible mushrooms (WEM) are economically signifcant and used in traditional medicines worldwide. The region of Jammu and Kashmir (Western Himalayas) is enriched with the diversity of edible mushrooms, collected by the rural people for food and income generation. This is the frst detailed study on diversity and ethnomedicinal uses of mushrooms from the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Methods: Consecutive surveys were conducted to record ethnomycological diversity and socio-economic importance of wild edible mushrooms value chain in rural areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir during 2015--2019. Ethnomycological data were collected with a semi-structured questionnaire having a set of questions on indigenous mycological knowledge and collection and retailing of wild edible mushrooms. A total of 923 informants from the study area provided the results identifying the gender, type of mushroom species, medicinal uses, and marketing of mushrooms. Diversity of mushrooms was studied by using quadrat and transect methods. Principal component analysis (PCA) and detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) were also applied to the dataset to analyse the relationship between species distribution, the underlying environmental factors, and habitat types. PCA identifed the major species-specifc to the sites and put them close to the sites of distribution. Results: A total of 131 mushroom species were collected and identifed during 2015--2019 from the study area. Ninety-seven species of mushrooms were reported new to the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The dominant mushroom family was Russulaceae with 23 species followed by Agaricaceae, 16 species. Major mushroom species identifed and grouped by the PCA were Coprinus comatus, Lactarius sanguifuus, Amanita fulva, Armillaria gallica, Lycoperdon perlatum, Lycoperdon pyriforme, and Russula creminicolor. Sparassis crispa, Pleurotus sp, and Laetiporus sulphureus were recorded most edible and medicinally signifcant fungi. Morels were also expensive and medicinally important among all harvested macro-fungal species. These were reported to use against common ailments and various health problems. Conclusions: Collection and retailing of WEM contribute to improving the socio-economic status, providing alternative employment and food security to rural people of the area. These mushrooms are used as a source of food and traditional medicines among the rural informants and could be used as a potential source of antibacterial and anticancer drugs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild–foraged mushrooms represent a natural resource that provides economic value to foragers through both market and nonmarket recreational channels. Despite the importance of non–timber forest resources for sustainable management of forestlands, little attention has been paid to who forages for wild mushrooms, why they choose to forage, where they go, and what economic value is generated. This report draws upon survey data from 78 foragers who are certified to sell their mushrooms and 85 noncertified foraging enthusiasts. Its goal is to understand foraging patterns and values for morels (Morchella spp.) in the State of Michigan (USA). Most foragers spend fewer than 10 days each year foraging, and those who sell their morels are most likely to sell to local restaurants, pubs and bars, and informally to their friends. Certified foragers who choose to sell their morels sell for an average price of $36 per pound ($36/lb) for fresh black or yellow morels. Costs to supply fresh morels ranged widely among the 16 certified sellers who reported full cost details; over 70% of morels were supplied at costs below $30/lb, but some certified sellers incurred costs in the hundreds of dollars per pound. Recreational morel gatherers paid $43 to $335 per trip of foraging morels, with a median value of $93 per trip. Morel foragers also search for other mushrooms with oyster mushrooms (Pleurtous spp.), chanterelles (Cantharellus spp), hen–of the–woods (Grifola frondosa), and chicken–of–the–woods (Laetiporus spp) being the most popular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Morchella has gone through turbulent taxonomic treatments. Although significant progress in Morchella systematics has been achieved in the past decade, several problems remain unresolved and taxonomy in the genus is still in flux. In late 2019, a paper published in the open-access journal Scientific Reports raised serious concerns about the taxonomic stability of the genus, but also about the future of academic publishing. The paper, entitled "High diversity of Morchella and a novel lineage of the esculenta clade from the north Qinling Mountains revealed by GCPSR-based study" by Phanpadith and colleagues, suffered from gross methodological errors, included false results and artifactual phylogenies, had misapplied citations throughout, and proposed a new species name invalidly. Although the paper was eventually retracted by Scientific Reports in 2021, the fact that such an overtly flawed and scientifically unsound paper was published in a high-ranked Q1 journal raises alarming questions about quality controls and safekeeping procedures in scholarly publishing. Using this paper as a case study, we provide a critical review on the pitfalls of Morchella systematics followed by a series of recommendations for the delimitation of species, description of taxa, and ultimately for a sustainable taxonomy in Morchella. Problems and loopholes in the academic publishing system are also identified and discussed, and additional quality controls in the pre- and post-publication stages are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Sabuco Revista de Estudios Albacetenses is the property of Instituto de Estudios Albacetenses and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The postharvest senescence of morels was observed to be easily affected by temperature fluctuations. The objective of this study was to examine the influence of various storage temperatures on the postharvest senescence of morels. The study evaluated the variations of water content, respiration, nutrients substances, cell membrane permeability, and volatile compounds in morels stored at 20 °C and 4 °C. Results showed that low-temperature storage suppressed the loss of water and firmness, delayed the time of respiration and ethylene peak, and reduced the loss of nutrients and cell membrane permeability. Furthermore, the content of volatile compounds increased and then decreased during storage. The characteristic aroma substances of 1-octen-3-ol were identified using odor activity values and OPLS-DA analysis. The study observed a decrease in the content and changes of aroma compounds during low-temperature storage. This decrease may be attributed to the decreased activities of lipoxygenase (LOX) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh morels were treated with salicylic acid (SA) and stored at 4 °C, to investigate its effects on the quality and browning status during storage. The results showed that the storage qualities of SA-treated morels were better than that of control, especially 500 μmol L−1 SA-treated morels. It delayed the decline of tyrosine and total phenols, increased quinones contents, and inhibited the activities and gene expressions of tyrosinase and polyphenol oxidase (PPO). In addition, ascorbic acid levels, and the enzyme activities and gene expressions of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbic acid peroxidase (APX) were increased with the treatment of SA, compared to the control group. Furthermore, the increase of electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were decreased with SA treatment. The results revealed that SA was a potential preservative agent applied in the morels storage for inhibiting the browning and maintaining the edible qualities. • Salicylic acid treatment delayed the browning of morels during cold storage. • Salicylic acid treatment regulated tyrosine metabolism. • The antioxidant system was enhanced by salicylic acid treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels are valuable mushrooms being used as foods and medical substances for a long history. The commonly cultivated morel species include M. eximia, M. importuna , and M . sextelata in China, M. conica and M. esculenta in the US. Morels' nutritional profile mainly consists of carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and organic acids, which are also responsible for its complex sensory attributes and health benefits. The bioactive compounds in morels including polysaccharides, phenolics, tocopherols, and ergosterols contribute to the anti-oxidative abilities, anti-inflammation, immunoprotection, gut health preservation, and anti-cancer abilities. This review depicted on the cultivation of morels, major bioactive compounds of different morel species both from fruit bodies and mycelia, and their health benefits to provide a comprehensive understanding of morels and support the future research and applications of morels as high-value functional food sources., Competing Interests: XZ and YL were employed by the company Bannerbio Nutraceuticals Inc. The remaining author declares that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Li, Chen and Zhang.)

[Display omitted] • Mushroom Morchella esculenta has a wide range of active constituents. • Morchella esculenta possesses diverse bioactivities. • Antioxidant activities of Morchella esculenta have been widely studied. • Most biological activities are linked to antioxidant ability of Morchella esculenta. • Detailed mechanism of action of various activities are needed. Mushrooms have been well known for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for their medicinal properties. Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers. (Morchellaceae) is a species of edible mushroom. Due to its distinctive and precise flavor, it has been used as a food and food-flavoring material in soups and sauces. It is one of the most medicinally important and economically beneficial wild species of mushroom. The fruiting body of M. esculenta contains a wide range of active constituents like vitamins, proteins, steroids, minerals, polysaccharides, and polynucleotides. M. esculenta and its active compounds possess significant cardiovascular protective, antitumor, immunomodulatory, antiparasitic, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, antiviral, and antidiabetic properties. In this article, the mycochemical profile, nutritional values, and bioactivities of M. esculenta were reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Morels browned during storage. • Differential metabolites in browning process were identified. • Tyrosine metabolism pathway concerned to the browning of morels. Browning is a major problem affecting the quality of the morel. This study aims to clarify the browning mechanisms of the morel in terms of metabolite changes during storage. Morels were stored at 20 °C and 4 °C, respectively, and browned gradually with the extension of the storage periods. The soluble quinone content was increased, while the total phenolic content was decreased in the later storage periods. Metabolomics analysis revealed that many metabolic profiles of substances in morel were altered with increased amino acids and fatty acids and decreased soluble sugars, organic acids and some phenolics with the browning process in storage. Especially, dopamine, a precursor of melanin produced from tyrosine oxidation, was up-accumulated after storage. However, quinone, the browning substance was increased after storage. Through the metabolomic results and correlation analysis, it could be suggested that tyrosine metabolism was a vital pathway leading to the browning of morels during storage. The membrane lipid and energy metabolism involved in the upstream of tyrosine metabolism pathway might also concern the browning of morels during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]