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Morels are some of the most highly prized edible and medicinal mushrooms, and the outdoor cultivation has been achieved in China in recent years. Sclerotial formation is one of the most important phases during the morel life cycle, and the number of sclerotia indicates the spawn quality during cultivation. However, the sclerotial formation and differentiation mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, the sclerotial formation process of Morchella importuna and the effects of reactive oxygen species on scerotial formation were studied. Scerotial formation was defined as five distinctive phases, hypha early, hyphal growth, sclerotial initiation, development, and maturation. The mycelia in the sclerotium-forming area were swollen, darkened, and dense with sclerotial formation, but hydrogen peroxide accumulated in the region lacking sclerotial formation. The expression of all six genes for superoxide dismutases tested increased with sclerotial maturation. A difference in hydrogen peroxide concentration of 20 mM could promote the sclerotial initiation and induce expression of sod genes. The MAPK signaling pathway was activated, and they passed the signal from an area of high oxidative stress to a low area to initiate sclerotial formation. An understanding of the sclerotial formation mechanisms in M. importuna may help to understand the life cycle and facilitate the fruiting body cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the structural features, in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of a heteropolysaccharide from the fruiting bodies of Morchella esculenta (FMP-1). FMP-1 had an average molecular weight of 4.7 × 10 3  Da and consisted of mannose, glucose and galactose. By methylation and NMR analysis, the backbone of FMP-1 was deduced to be made up of 1,4-linked Glc p and 1,6-linked Gal p . Hydroxyl, DPPH and superoxide radicals could be efficiently scavenged by FMP-1, with IC 50 values of 74.26, 119.32 and 161.49 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, FMP-1 could significantly protect zebrafish embryos against AAPH-induced oxidative damage. Decrease in malformations and mortalities was observed along with the reduction of ROS production, NO production and cell death. The protective effects were by decreasing MDA content and increasing SOD, CAT and GSH-Px levels. The current work provided a good suggestion of the potential utilization of FMP-1 as an attractive natural antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels are edible mushrooms appreciated worldwide for their savory flavor. Morels have been in use in traditional medicine for centuries, due to their health-related benefits, and current research demonstrated their anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory bioactivities, in addition to immunostimulatory and anti-tumor properties. In spite of the high demand for morels and their increasing economic importance, their cultivation is limited, and they are either used as wild harvested or fermented in culture, for consumption as a functional food and for food-flavoring. Morel's health benefits were attributed mainly to polysaccharides as the active compounds, and to various phytochemicals, mainly phenolic compounds, tocopherols, ascorbic acid and vitamin D. Morel's nutritional composition was reported, including sugar, amino acid, fatty and organic acid and mineral profile. Information regarding Morel's flavor is limited, and while some of their taste attributes have been described, including the role of umami taste, details about their volatile aroma profile are scarce, and it was reported to include eight carbon volatiles, the main aroma volatiles typical to most mushrooms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review presenting morels' nutritional and phytochemical composition, health benefits and flavor, and we will review the available information in current literature regarding these aspects in light of morels phenotypic plasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dyestuffs used in the textile sector are among the major pollutants and present as a polluting agent in the waters poured to the environment. Therefore, synthetic dyes led to the serious environmental pollution and threats to human health. The process of color removal from waste water of the textile industry is gaining importance from ecological point of view. Nowadays, the removal of dye materials is carried out by physical and chemical methods. However, the high cost of these methods and the resulting large amount of concentrated slurry causes problems. In recent years, it has been shown that white rot fungi have the ability to reduce the synthetic dye materials with their extracellular ligninolytic enzymes. Fungal biosorption is an economical, easy and efficient method for removing organic contaminants from aqueous media. In this study; the white rot fungus M. esculenta was immobilized into five different support materials (gelatin, polyurethane, kaolin, cellulose) and the removal of Reactive Orange 16 dye with these immobilized cells was investigated and compared. The best biological degradation of the dye was obtained by immobilization into polyurethane support material with M. esculenta (dye concentration: 10 mgL −1 ) 90,38%. Samples were analyzed in FT-IR to determine possible metabolites that can be occurred as a result of biodegradation. The M. esculenta laccase, which may be responsible for biodegradation, was partially purified and identified by SDS-PAGE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels (Morchella, Ascomycota), which are some of the most highly prized edible and medicinal mushrooms, are of great economic and scientific value. Morel cultivation has been a research focus worldwide for more than 100 years, and the outdoor cultivation of morels has succeeded and expanded to a large scale in China in recent years. In this study, we review the progress in recent research regarding the life cycle and reproductive systems in the genusMorchellaand the current state of outdoor cultivation. Sclerotia formation and conidia production are two important phases during the life cycle. The morel species cultivated commercially in America isM. rufobrunneabased on molecular phylogenetic analysis. The species currently cultivated in China are black morels, includingM. importuna,M. sextalataandM. eximia. The field cultivation of morels expanded in the majority of the provinces in China with a yield of fresh morels of 0–7620 kg per ha. The key techniques include spawn production, land preparation and spawning, the addition of exogenous nutrition, fruiting management and harvesting. The application of exogenous nutrition is the most important breakthrough in the field of morel cultivation, but the mechanism remains unclear. It was estimated that the total amount of field cultivated fresh morels was ∼500 t in 2015–2016. We also discuss the potential issues remaining in the current literature and suggest directions for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In March 2013, pileus rot disease was first observed on cultivated Morchella importuna. Infected ascomata were covered by white, velvety mycelia mainly on the pileus, and the infection resulted in malformed fruiting bodies. The causal pathogen was identified as Diploöspora longispora based on its morphology and the internal transcribed spacer of its ribosomal DNA sequences. After inoculation of young ascomata with the isolates, the original symptoms were reproduced, and the same pathogen was reisolated from diseased ascomata. This is the first report of pileus rot disease on morels caused by D. longisporain China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND A headspace solid-phase microextraction method with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to profile the aroma volatiles of mature fruiting bodies of Morchella importuna grown in Israel. RESULTS We tentatively identified 40 aroma compounds and seven unknown volatiles. The M. importuna aroma profile consisted of 14 aldehydes, six alcohols, 10 methyl esters, four heterocyclic/sulfur compounds, 10 carbohydrates and three other compounds (i.e. one acid, one ketone and one butyl ester). The most abundant volatiles were carbohydrates, with a total relative peak area of 29.3%, followed by alcohols (27.7%), aldehydes (21.6%), methyl esters (10.8%), heterocyclic/sulfur compounds (3.1%) and other compounds (5.8%). The 8-carbon (C8) compounds imparting typical mushroom-like aroma were very abundant in M. importuna, accounting for 27.9% of the total peak area and including, amongst others, 1-octen-3-ol (80% of total C8), octanal and 2-octenal ( Z- and E-). CONCLUSION The aroma volatile profile of morels has much in common with that of other mushrooms, with a few unique characteristics. To our knowledge, this is the first detailed report of the aroma profile of M. importuna. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercial production of Morchella mushrooms, especially M. importuna , has been realized since 2012 in China, which facilitates the fundamental studies of Morchella spp. In this paper, the cytological characteristics at three stages of ascocarpic development and the nuclear behavior during meiosis and ascosporogenesis in cultivated strain M. importuna 1 # was visualized by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The results suggested that the strain sporulated at sporulation stage of ascocarpic development. A total of six nuclear divisions typically took place during ascosporogenesis. The first and second divisions were meiotic in which the single diploid nucleus divided into four haploid nuclei. The subsequent mitosis gave rise to eight nuclei, and eight incipient ascospores with one nucleus in each spore were formed after spore delimitation in the clavate ascus. Then, the nucleus in most of the young ascospore underwent three successive mitoses producing 6–8 haploid nuclei in each mature spore, and thus the multinucleate ascospores in each ascus were all homokaryons. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first dynamic tracing study of nuclear behavior during meiosis and ascosporogenesis in cultivated morels, and the spore delimitation time is also the first report. The study will be beneficial for the genetics study and strain breeding of Morchella mushrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemically carboxymethylated polysaccharide (CPMEP), which is derived from the purified polysaccharide from Morchella angusticepes Peck (PMEP), was prepared. The degree of substitution of CPMEP was 0.461. Fourier transform infrared spectra analysis and 13 C, 1 H, and DEPT135° NMR spectra indicated C6 position was partially substituted by CH 2 COOH. Moreover, serum total cholesterol of hypercholesterolemic rats treated with the high dose of PMEP and CPMEP was 1.54 mmol/L and 1.29 mmol/L compared with that of rats fed with a 2% cholesterol diet (1.74 mmol/L), respectively, indicating CPMEP had a stronger cholesterol-lowering activity than PMEP. CPMEP had a trend in reducing liver total cholesterol while increasing the excretion of total fecal and intestinal bile acids, which were probably mediated by down-regulation of hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase while up-regulation of cholesterol-7α-hydroxylase. It was therefore concluded that carboxymethylation of PMEP could enhance its cholesterol-lowering ability at least in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indigenous people in Chakrata have an immense knowledge of edible and poisonous mushrooms. In the present study the use of mushroom in culinary practices was surveyed among three communities, viz., the natives: Brahmins, Kshatriyas and Scheduled Caste; and Nepali immigrants. The Brahmins & Kshatriyas showed a narrow range of consumption of mushrooms while the Nepalis showed the widest range of consumption. Medicinal and religious uses were reported by the scheduled caste. A total of 63 mushrooms were recorded from the study area. The knowledge of edible as well as medicinal uses of fungi is at risk in this region as the younger generation is not willing to learn this traditional knowledge. In the present study most of the youths were excluded at the end as they did not gave much information [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antimicrobial properties of morel compounds from wild edible mushrooms ( Morchella esculenta and Verpa bohemica ) from Kashmir valley was investigated against different clinical pathogens. The butanol crude fraction of most popular or true morel M. esculenta showed highest 19 mm IZD against E.coli while as same fraction of Verpa bohemica exhibited 15 mm IZD against same strain. The ethyl acetate and butanol crude fractions of both morels also exhibited good antifungal activity with highest IZD shown against A. fumigates. The three morel compounds showed quite impressive anti bacterial and fungal activities. The Cpd 3 showed highest inhibitory activity almost equivalent to the synthetic antibiotics used as control. The MIC/MBC values revealed the efficiency of isolated compounds against the pathogenic strains. In the current study significant inhibitory activity of morel compounds have been obtained paying the way for their local use from ancient times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morchella (morel) includes prized edible and medical mushrooms in the world. Since 2012, commercial cultivation of morels in the field has developed rapidly in China. However, coupled with the rapid expansion of morel cultivation, diseases have been become serious threats to morel production. White mold is one of the most serious diseases on cultivated morels. This study aimed to confirm this pathogen by following Koch's postulates, and to identify it using molecular evidence. Our results indicated that healthy Morchella fruiting bodies inoculated with Paecilomyces sp. isolates produced typical white mold symptoms, and the internal transcribed spacer sequences of the Paecilomyces sp. were 99% similar to that recovered from an epitype of Paecilomyces penicillatus. Therefore, P. penicillatus was considered to be the causative agent of white mold. White mold occurred from the initial harvest to the storage and preservation process, and it produced white mold-like symptoms on the caps and stripes of Morchella. This is the first time that white mold has been reported on cultivated Morchella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crude polysaccharides (MPS) from soybean residue fermented with Morchella esculenta were extracted and purified by DEAE Sephadex A-50 chromatography and Sephadex G-100 size-exclusion chromatography in sequence. Three main fractions MP-1, MP-3 and MP-4 were obtained during the purification steps. The recovery rates based on MPS used were 26.2%, 29.1% and 18.7% for MP-1, MP-3 and MP-4 respectively. The monosaccharide composition, ultraviolet spectrum, infrared spectrum and NMR of the three fractions were analyzed. Furthermore, the influence of polysaccharides fractions upon activation of macrophage cells (RAW 264.7), antitumor activities of the human hepatocellular cell line (HepG-2) and human cervical carcinoma cells (Hela) in vitro were evaluated. The results indicated that the proliferation of MP-3 on RAW 264.7 was 313.57% at 25 μg/mL, which is high while MP-1 had a higher growth inhibition effect on HepG-2 cells of 68.01% at concentration of 50 μg/mL. The fractions of MP-1, MP-3 and MP-4 induced apoptosis in HepG-2 cells and Hela cells by arresting cell cycle progression at the G 0 /G 1 phase. These findings suggest that the purified polysaccharides fractions may be a potent candidate for human hepatocellular and cervical carcinoma treatment and prevention in functional foods and pharmacological fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present results of survey on the occurrence of true morels, conducted in the Ojców National Park (ONP). The first data about true morels from the area of the ONP date back to the nineteenth century. However, despite multiple surveys in the next decades, their presence has not been confirmed. Therefore, true morels were thought to be extinct in the ONP. In 2014 and 2015, two morphotypes of true morel fruiting bodies were discovered in two sites, identified as black morels and yellow morels. In 2016, we collected three fruiting bodies for detailed morphological characterization and molecular identification. According to our results, these morels were identified as Morchella deliciosa and Morchella esculenta. Our finding is the first confirmation of the occurrence of both species (as they are presently recognized) in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apoptosis tests proved that Morchella esculenta polysaccharide (MEP) could inhibit the proliferation and growth of human colon cancer HT-29 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner within 48 h. This study provides more information on antiproliferation of purified polysaccharides isolated from Morchella esculenta. MEP induced apoptosis in HT29 cells by modulating Bax and Bcl-2 protein expression. The strongest inhibition rate (87.62±1.41%) of the MEP was observed at the dosage of 1000 μg ml-1. Meanwhile MEP in antiproliferative concentrations was non-toxic to normal fibroblast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morel mushrooms are globally distributed, socially and economically important reproductive structures produced by fungi of the genus Morchella . Morels are highly prized edible mushrooms and significant harvests are collected throughout their range, especially in the first year after fire, when some morel species fruit prolifically. Few studies have quantified post-fire morel mushroom abundance, despite their widespread human use. The purpose of this study is to provide the first ever estimate of post-fire morel mushroom abundance in Sierra Nevada mixed-conifer forest. Specifically, we estimate the abundance and spatial variability of morel mushrooms across an intensively mapped and measured forest research site during the first growing season following fire. We conducted this study in the Yosemite Forest Dynamics Plot, a long-term forest research installation located in old-growth mixed-conifer forest of Yosemite National Park, California, USA. We surveyed for morel mushrooms in n = 1119 contiguous circular 3.14 m 2 plots arranged along 2240 m of permanently marked, georeferenced transects. We characterized the spatial correlation of morel plots using k category (multicolor) join count statistics. We analyzed spatial correlations at interplot distances up to 9.0 m. There were 595 morel mushrooms in the 1119 plots we measured. Mushrooms occurred in 17.8% of plots. We estimated a mean standing crop of 1693 morels ha −1 (SE = 155.4 morels ha −1 ). Morel-occupied plots were strongly and significantly spatially autocorrelated. Most of the spatial correlation among morel-occupied plots was apparent at scales up to 7.0 m, and was strongest at scales <3.0 m. This study is one of only four that provide unbiased estimates of post-fire morel abundance. Our morel abundance estimates are generally consistent with prior work in high-latitude North American conifer forests. The strong spatial autocorrelation of morel-occupied microsites at scales <7 m indicates that key factors controlling post-fire morel productivity are heterogeneous at small spatial scales. We propose a simple conceptual model to explain this spatial structure that includes spatial variability of pre-fire Morchella colonies; pre-fire vegetation community and fuelbed; fire behavior, intensity, and effects; and soil moisture and temperature. Relatively liberal harvest limits for recreational and subsistence harvesters appear appropriate and sustainable, at least for coniferous forests in the first year following fire. However, intensive commercial harvest, in jurisdictions where it is allowed, may warrant monitoring to assess potential impacts to long-term morel productivity, conflict with recreational harvesters, and non-target effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assessed the nutritional strategy of true morels (genus Morchella) collected in 2003 and 2004 in Oregon and Alaska, 1 or 2 y after forest fires. We hypothesized that the patterns of stable isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) in the sporocarps would match those of saprotrophic fungi and that radiocarbon (Δ14C) analyses would indicate that Morchella was assimilating old carbon not current-year photosynthate. We compared radiocarbon and stable isotopes in Morchella with values from concurrently collected foliage, the ectomycorrhizal Geopyxis carbonaria (Alb. & Schwein.) Sacc., the saprotrophic Plicaria endocarpoides (Berk.) Rifai, and with literature to determine isotopic values for ectomycorrhizal or saprotrophic fungi. Geopyxis, Plicaria and Morchella, respectively, were 3‰, 5‰and 6‰ higher in 13C than foliage and 5‰, 7‰ and 7‰ higher in 15N. High 15N enrichment in Morchella indicated that recent litter was not the primary source for Morchella nitrogen, and similar 13C and 15N enrichments to Plicaria suggest that Morchella assimilates its carbon and nitrogen from the same source pool as this saprotrophic fungus. From radiocarbon analyses Morchella averaged 11 ± 6 y old (n = 19), Plicaria averaged 17 ± 5 y old (n = 3), foliage averaged 1 ± 2 y old (n = 8) and Geopyxis (n = 1) resembled foliage in Δ14C. We conclude that morels fruiting in post-fire environments in our study assimilated old carbon and were saprotrophic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean curd residue is a relatively abundant and inexpensive food waste. In this study, it was reused as fermentation substrate for Morchella esculenta ( M. esculenta ). To evaluate the reutilization potential, the physicochemical properties of fermented soybean curd residue (FSCR) were investigated and compared to the unfermented soybean curd residue (USCR). In detail, physical characteristics include morphology, hygroscopicity, thermostability and color. Chemical characteristics were represented by proximate composition, free amino acids, polysaccharides, total polyphenol, pH, and titratable acidity. The obtained samples were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetry (TG), differential thermal analysis (DTA) and fourier transform infrared (FTIR). Experimental results indicated that the FSCR shows a higher thermostability, porous and homogeneous structure. In addition, the nutritional contents of FSCR significantly increased compared with USCR, such as free amino acids (from 2343.32 ± 2.43 to 5060.25 ± 3.80 nmol/g), polysaccharides (from 25.22 ± 2.23 to 95.82 ± 1.37 mg/g) and total polyphenol (from 5.99 ± 0.27 to 7.70 ± 0.18 mg/g). This study suggested that fermentation by M. esculenta can be an effective approach to increase the utilization potential of soybean curd residue. [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.)

BACKGROUND: Morchella conica Pers. is a species of fungus that belongs to the Morchellaceae family and was studied in order to obtain more information about this species, by comparing Portuguese and Serbian wild samples. Free sugars, fatty acids, tocopherols, organic and phenolic acids were analysed by chromatographic techniques. M. conica methanolic extracts were tested regarding antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The absence of hepatotoxicity was confirmed in porcine liver primary cells. RESULTS: The nutrition value varied between the two samples and the Serbian one gave the highest energy contribution and content in sugars, polyunsaturated fatty acids and phenolic compounds, while the Portuguese sample was richer in saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols and organic acids. In general, the Portuguese sample revealed the highest antioxidant potential (except for lipid peroxidation inhibition), while the Serbian one displayed higher antimicrobial activity. None of the samples revealed toxicity towards liver cells. CONCLUSION: The present study provides new data concerning chemical characterization and bioactivity of Morchella conica Pers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological and molecular phylogenetic studies of true morels (Morchella) in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador resulted in the discovery of two undescribed species in the M. elata clade that we initially distinguished by the informal designations Mel-19 and Mel-36. The latter species, also collected in New Brunswick, Canada, is hitherto known only from the St Lawrence River Basin. Mel-36 is described here as a novel, phylogenetically distinct species, M. laurentiana. Before the discovery of Mel-19 in Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick and Washington state it was only known from central China and central and northern Europe. Mel-19 is described here as a novel species, M. eohespera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels of Palas Valley, Pakistan: A Potential Source for Generating Income and Improving Livelihoods of Mountain Communities. The local economy in the Palas Valley of Pakistan is agro-pastoral, and people rely on income and subsistence from livestock production followed by wild-collection of morels. The purpose of this study was to investigate the market potential of morels, their folk uses, traditions, and habitat conditions. Market and field surveys were conducted in various regions of the country. The information regarding ethnic uses of morels and the traditional beliefs of people in the Palas Valley and its surroundings were recorded. The data we collected included supply and demand, pricing, and market fluctuations and trends. A specially designed questionnaire was used to gather details from focus groups, and individual discussions and personal interviews during field visits were conducted. The study areas included: Palas Valley, Peshawar, Lahore, and Karachi, which are the major herbal market places in Pakistan. The Palas Valley was found to have the potential and natural resources to become an excellent market for morels. The results of the present study indicate that five species of morels ( Morchella esculenta, M. conica, M. elata, M. deliciosa, and M. gigas) growing in Palas Valley are traded all over Pakistan. We found that a total of 15,000 kg morels from the Palas Valley were exported annually to national and international markets. This generated significant revenue (USD 343,000 per year) at the valley level. Local people, especially herdsmen, together with their wives and children, were mainly collecting this resource. Local knowledge about the methods of morel collection, drying, storage, and market price was limited. A continuous decline was observed in morel market supply in Pakistan. The main reasons identified included quality variation due to poor harvest treatments, trade practices of middlemen, availability of materials, and poor marketing strategies. The study concludes that morels are a potential source of income generation and improving livelihoods for underprivileged mountain communities. However, morel populations seem to be gradually declining due to possibly unsustainable collection techniques. There is tremendous potential to boost the income of ethnic communities by promoting training and enhancing the trade of morels based on modern scientific studies. This would not only bring considerable income opportunities for the population of Palas Valley, but would also decrease their dependence on timber sales and thus decrease the pressure on local forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the artificial cultivation of Morchella mushrooms that belong to Elata Clade, including Morchella elata , has been developed rapidly in China. However, the prominent problem of spawn aging has been frustrating the morel farming. In this paper, aging in M. elata was achieved from 12 to 17 subcultures and lifespan of 1536–2256 h by successive subculturing. The lifespan can be roughly divided into juvenile phase and senescent phase with respect to the mycelia linear growth rate. After a certain period of rapid growth with almost constant rate at the juvenile phase, the isolate entered the senescent phase characterized by slow down of mycelia growth, producing pigments ahead of time and final death of the apical hyphae. The period of the senescent phase was definitely 240–288 h; while that of the juvenile phase was diverse relying on different isolates. Moreover, microscopic study showed that angles between the leading and primary hyphae increased constantly with aging. In senesced hyphal cells of M. elata , the typical characteristics of autophagy (enlargement of vacuoles and existence of organelles sequestrated lysosomes) and apoptosis (condensation of the cytoplasm and nuclear and plasmolysis) were observed. In addition, in the final stage of senescence, the apical hyphae collapsed with the plasma membrane and all the cellular organelles disrupted, indicated a necrotic mode of cell death. Taken together, these data revealed the involvement of autophagy, apoptosis and necrosis in senescence of M. elata . The characterization and molecular mechanism of autophagy, apoptosis and necrosis need further study and the systematic study of morel aging will be beneficial for the healthy development of morel farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first case of obtaining Morchella in Mexico by inoculation in situ is presented. This mushroom is economically important for its high demand in the domestic and international market, but despite the fact that some patents for commercial production have been generated; their production still depends essentially on field harvesting. An experiment was conducted in the laboratory to evaluate the mycelial growth of two species of Morchella in four types of grains (corn, oats, wheat and rye), to determine which is the most appropriate inoculant agent. The strains used were: M. esculenta (IE-750) and M. conica (IE-815, 817-IE, IE-816 and IE-814), of which the best treatment was IE-817 in rye, which was subsequently injected into the soil of a piece of land located in a cloud forest mountain disturbed (with predominance of species of the genus Inga, Liquidambar, and Sambucus). As a result three fruiting periods were obtained between in 2009 and 2011. This indicates the possibility of obtaining this mushroom through production strategies in situ, which would trigger a new approach to production under a mycosilviculture scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new polysaccharide (MEP-1) was isolated from fruit body of wideMorchella esculenta(L.) Pers with a stepwise procedure of hot water extraction, removal of the protein, dialysis against water, DEAE-Cellulose A52 and Sephadex G-100 columns. Physicochemical properties of the polysaccharide was determined by chemical methods, high-performance gel permeation chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography, paper chromatography, ultraviolet spectrum, and infrared spectrometry. The polysaccharides were primarily polymers of glucose, mannose, galactose, and arabinose. The average molecular mass was 43625 Da. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study analyzed the effects of four microelemental fertilizers not only on growth rates and sclerotia formation of mycelia, but also the yields, amino acids contents and mineral elements of fruit body from artificially cultivated Morchella conica . Results showed that Fe·EDDHA had the strongest promoting effect on the mycelia growth, sclerotia formation and resulted in the highest yield, while CuSO 4 ·5H 2 O resulted in an adverse effect. Fe·EDDHA, Nutriagent and ZnSO 4 ·7H 2 O, respectively, increased the yields of morel's fruit bodies by 63.4%, 59.9% and 25.9% when compared with that of the control, but the yield of CuSO 4 ·5H 2 O group was reduced by 19.3%. The total amino acids contents of Fe·EDDHA, Nutriagent and ZnSO 4 ·7H 2 O groups were also significantly increased. Six microelements (Fe, Zn, B, Cu, Mn and Mo) and six heavy metals (Ni, As, Pb, Cr, Cd and Hg) were assayed and the highest Fe content was found in the Fe·EDDHA group, 7.10 times higher than that of the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels, a group of the world’s most prized edible and medicinal mushrooms, are of very important economic and scientific value. Here, we review recent research progress in the genusMorchella, and focus on its taxonomy, species diversity and distribution, ecological diversity, phylogeny and biogeography, artificial cultivation, and genome. We also discuss the potential issues remaining in the current research and suggest some future directions for study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Applying early names, with or without original material, to genealogical species is challenging. For morels this task is especially difficult because of high morphological stasis and high plasticity of apothecium color and shape. Here we propose a nomenclatural revision of true morels (Morchella, Pezizales) from Europe and North America, based on molecular phylogenetic analyses of portions of the genes for RNA polymerase II largest subunit (RPB1) and second largest subunit (RPB2), translation elongation factor-1a (TEF1), the nuc rDNA region encompassing the internal transcribed spacers 1 and 2, along with the 5.8S rDNA (ITS), and partial nuc 28S rDNA D1-D2 domains (28S). The 107 newly sequenced collections were from both continents, including 48 types, together with previously published sequences. Names are applied to 30 of the 65 currently recognized genealogical species. Results of the present study revealed that the number of Morchella species in Europe (n = 21) is nearly identical to that in North America (n = 22). Only seven species were found on both continents, consistent with previous reports of high continental endemism within the genus. Presently it is not possible to tell whether the transoceanic disjunctions were due to human activities, migration across a Bering land bridge or long-distance dispersal. In an effort to stabilize the taxonomy, due in part to the recent publication of synonyms for 11 of the species, accepted names are presented together with their corresponding later synonyms. A new subclade that includes holotypes of M. castanea and M. brunneorosea is identified in sect. Morchella (Esculenta Clade). Lectotypes for Morchella deliciosa, M. eximia and M. tridentina are designated here, as well as epitypes for M. dunalii, M. eximia, M. purpurascens and M. vulgaris. Morchella conica was determined to be illegitimate, and further research is required to determine the identity of M. elata and M. inamoena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[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]

Morchella species are edible fungi in high demand and therefore command high prices in world markets. Phenotypic-based identification at the species-level remains inadequate because of their complex life cycles, minor differences and plasticity of morphological characteristics between species, and the lack of agreement between scientific and common names. In Patagonia–Argentina, morels are associated with native forests of Austrocedrus chilensis (Cordilleran or Chilean cypress) and Nothofagus antarctica (ñire) and several exotic conifers that were introduced from western North America. Little is known about their taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships with other species in the genus. This work focused on the identification of collections of Morchella from Patagonia and their phylogenetic relationships with other species from the Northern Hemisphere. The comparison was made by analysis of DNA sequences obtained from four loci: the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) and the partial RNA polymerase I gene ( RPB1 ) for the complete collection; and ITS, RPB1 , RNA polymerase II gene ( RPB2 ), and translation elongation factor ( EF1-α ) for the species-rich Elata Subclade. Analyses of individual and combined data sets revealed that Patagonian morels belong to the Elata Clade and comprised three strongly supported species-level lineages from both Patagonian native forest, and exotic trees introduced from western North America. One lineage was identified as Morchella frustrata phylogenetic species Mel-2 , which is known from the USA and Canada. The second lineage, which appeared to be ‘fire-adapted’, was identified as Morchella septimelata phylogenetic species ( Mel-7 ), which is also known from the USA. This species was collected from burned native forests mainly composed of A. chilensis and N. antarctica but also Pseudotsuga menziesii ( Mirb.) Blanco, which is native to western North America. The phylogenetic analyses suggested that the third species from Patagonia was nested within the species-rich Elata Subclade and represents a new species-level lineage (informally designated Mel-37 ) within Elata Clade. The present collections from Patagonia constitute the southernmost latitude from which Morchella has been reported to date. The identification of two Argentine morels as North American taxa is therefore a remarkable biogeographic pattern. In view of the hypothesis that the Elata Clade originated in western North America, we speculate that at least two of the lineages colonized South America from North America via long distance dispersal, migration or, more likely, they were introduced with the exotic tree species that they were collected near. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The difference of gene expression between sclerotia-producing and non-sclerotia-producing single spore isolates from Morchella conica were preliminary analyzed by mRNA differential display reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique and 67 differential gene fragments were obtained. Fifty-eight of their second PCR products were cloned and sequenced. Thirteen special differential gene fragments related to sclerotial formation were validated by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Some gene fragments had certain homologies with lipoprotein, cyclin-dependent kinase C-3, glycerophosphoryl diester phosphodiesterase, Rho GDP-dissociation inhibitor, gamma-aminobutyrate permease, OmpA family protein, Transcript antisense to ribosomal RNA protein, sodium-calcium exchange protein and keratin-associated proteins 5, 6. In addition, the putative protein of some DNA fragments had higher similarity with hypothetical protein-coding gene in NCBI database, as well as some were only putative gene fragments. All these fragments were speculated to be the functional gene associated with sclerotial formation in morel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels are wild edible ascomycetous mushrooms that are highly prized because of their medicinal and nutritional qualities. Ligninolytic enzymes are considered as one of the most important enzymes in fungi due to their involvement in fruiting body formation during artificial cultivation on different substrates. In the life cycle of morels, sclerotia are the intermediate stage to form a fruiting body from mycelia. We have studied the production of ligninolytic enzymes by Morchella crassipes MR8 growing on different substrates and during sclerotia formation. This fungus is able to produce ligninolytic enzymes such as laccase (Lac), lignin peroxidase (LiP), and manganese-dependent peroxidase (MnP) when grown on different substrates. Maximum Lac activity was observed when grown in wheat grains whereas maximum activities of MnP and LiP were observed when grown in rice straw. Laccase enzyme was produced in high titers during sclerotia formation and maturation when grown in combinations of soil and substrates. A large number of sclerotia was observed in soil and wheat grains, along with high titers of laccase. Cellulase activity was observed to be constant during sclerotia formation and maturation. The present study results suggest that laccase enzyme might play an important role in sclerotia formation in morels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The endophytic fungi in ascocarps of morchella crassipes from different sites were isolated and identified by morphological technology combined with sequence analysis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. The results indicated that the fungal endophytes in M. crassipes were diverse. From 3 sites 16 fungal strains belonging to 14 taxa were isolated and identified. Among which, 15 out of the 16 isolates were ascomycetes or their anamorphs, while only 1 isolate (Mortierella alpina) belonged to Zygomycota. Chaetomium fungi were isolated from samples of three origins and Lecanicillium fungicola var. aleophilum was isolated from sporocarps occurring in Mianyang, Sichuan province and Zhengzhou, Henan province, while the other isolates were specific for each sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abundant fruiting of a black morel was encountered in temperate northwestern New South Wales (NSW), Australia, during a mycological survey in Sep 2010. The site was west of the Great Dividing Range in a young, dry sclerophyll forest dominated by Eucalyptus and Callitris north of Coonabarabran in an area known as the Pilliga Scrub. Although the Pilliga Scrub is characterized by frequent and often large, intense wildfires, the site showed no sign of recent fire, which suggests this species is not a postfire morel. Caps of the Morchella data-like morel were brown with blackish ridges supported by a pubescent stipe that became brown at maturity. Because no morel has been described as native to Australia, the collections were subjected to multilocus molecular phylogenetic and morphological analyses to assess its identity. Results of these analyses indicated that our collection, together with collections from NSW and Victoria, represented a novel, genealogically exclusive lineage, which is described and illustrated here as Morchella australiana T. F. Elliott, Bougher, O'Donnell & Trappe, sp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interactions between bacteria and fungi, the main actors of the soil microbiome, remain poorly studied. Here, we show that the saprotrophic and ectomycorrhizal soil fungus Morchella crassipes acts as a bacterial farmer of Pseudomonas putida, which serves as a model soil bacterium. Farming by M. crassipes consists of bacterial dispersal, bacterial rearing with fungal exudates, as well as harvesting and translocation of bacterial carbon. The different phases were confirmed experimentally using cell counting and 13C probing. Common criteria met by other non-human farming systems are also valid for M. crassipes farming, including habitual planting, cultivation and harvesting. Specific traits include delocalization of food production and consumption and separation of roles in the colony (source versus sink areas), which are also found in human agriculture. Our study evidences a hitherto unknown mutualistic association in which bacteria gain through dispersal and rearing, while the fungus gains through the harvesting of an additional carbon source and increased stress resistance of the mycelium. This type of interaction between fungi and bacteria may play a key role in soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Soybean curd residue was used as a new nutrient media to ferment polysaccharides. [•] Media components were determined by orthogonal experiment. [•] Fermentation conditions were optimized by response surface methodology. [•] Polysaccharides have higher antioxidant activity after fermentation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study was conducted at the Horticulture Department of Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey, in 2010 to determine the volatile aroma compounds of Morchella mushroom. Fresh samples of Morchella esculenta (Sample 1) and Morchella data (Sample 2) were collected from Çanakkale (Sample 1) and Mersin (Sample 2) provinces in Turkey in the spring of 2010. Volatile aroma compounds were analyzed by headspace gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HS-GC/MS). A total of 31 aroma compounds were identified in the 2 analyzed samples: 7 alcohols, 7 esters, 7 ketones, 3 acids, 2 aldehydes, 1 terpene, phenol, 1-propanamine, geranyl linalool, and quinoline. Seventeen aroma components were identified in Sample 1, and 18 compounds were found in Sample 2. Phenol was determined as the major aroma compound in both Sample 1 and Sample 2, at 50.888% and 58.293% content, respectively. Alcohols, especially 1-octen-3-ol, were detected as the second major aroma components in Sample 1 and Sample 2, at 15.500% and 5.660% content, respectively. Carbamic acid, methyl ester was found only in Sample 1, at 11.379% content. The aroma components detected in the two samples differed. 1-Octadecanol; cyclooctylalcohol; trans-2-undecen-1-ol: butanoic acid, butyl ester (CAS); carbamic acid, methyl ester; 2-ethylhexyl- 2-ethylhexanoate; phthalic acid, decyl isobutyl ester; 2,2,4-trimethyl- 1,3-pentanediol diisobutyrate; decanal; nonanal; 7,9-di-tert-butyl- 1-oxaspiro(4.5)deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione; 2,5-cyclohexadiene-l,4-dione; 2,6-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl); and trans-alpha-bisabolene were detected only in Sample 1. Ethanol; silanediol, 2-methylaminoethanol; L-alanine, ethyl ester: carbonic acid, dodecyl isobutyl ester; acetic acid; butanoic acid; 2,3,4H-pyran-4-one; 5,9-undecadien-2-one; cyclooctene; 2-cyclopenten-l-one; 1-propanamine; geranyl linalool; and quinoline were determined only in Sample 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A comparative study on chemical composition (nutritional value, primary and secondary metabolites), antioxidant properties (scavenging activity, reducing power and inhibition of lipid peroxidation), and antimicrobial activity (antibacterial and demelanizing properties) of two samples of Morchella esculenta (morel) from different countries (Portugal and Serbia) was performed. This species was chosen for being one of the most highly prized edible mushrooms in the world. Both samples are rich in carbohydrates (including free sugars) and proteins, and contain several bioactive compounds such as organic acids, phenolic compounds and tocopherols. Polyunsaturated fatty acids were the most abundant compounds followed by mono or saturated fatty acids. Sample from Portugal (SP) gave higher radical scavenging activity and reducing power, while sample from Serbia (SS) showed higher lipid peroxidation inhibition. Both samples gave antibacterial activity against five bacteria (in some cases even better than standard antibiotics) and demelanizing activity against four micromycetes, showing SS higher activities. As far as we know, this is the first study reporting chemical compounds and bioactivity of morel samples from Portugal and Serbia. Furthermore, a novel method for evaluation of demelanizing activity was presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Descriptions and illustrations of two species of the genus Morchella Dill. ex Pers. : Fr. : M. steppicola Zerova and M. eximia Boud., rare in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]