Mushroom Revival Podcast
How Temperature Makes Fungi Kill us or Heal us with Dr. Arturo Casadevall and Dr. Radames J. B. Cordero
Aug 18, 2023
Dr. Arturo Casadevall and Dr. Radames J. B. Cordero discuss the effects of temperature on fungal diseases, including the impact of warm-blooded mammals' resistance to them. They explore the multifunctional role of melanin in fungi and its potential in capturing solar energy. The podcast also delves into the research on fungal melanin's use in treating melanoma and the medical importance of specific drugs for fungal infections. The guests highlight the influence of temperature on the spread of fungal pathogens and mention their strategy for sharing their work and promoting mushroom products.
46:50
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Quick takeaways
- Fungi use melanin to adapt to extreme environments and have potential applications in bio-solar panels and eco-friendly materials.
- Fungal diseases are often overlooked, and there is a need for better therapies and addressing drug resistance.
Deep dives
The Versatility of Melanin in Fungi
Fungi produce melanin, a multifunctional pigment that offers protection against various stressors such as radiation, temperature, and chemicals. Melanin acts as a shield for fungi, protecting them from the environment and even capturing energy from radiation. It also has a role in visual communication and energy capture, including heat. Fungi are capable of maintaining colder temperatures than their surroundings by evaporating water, which makes their surface colder. This fascinating ability of fungi to adapt to extreme environments and utilize melanin for various functions has sparked interest in harnessing its potential for practical applications, including bio-solar panels and eco-friendly materials.
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