LSD Pioneer Uncovers the Enigmatic Fungus
Newly Identified Fungus Could Pave Way for Breakthrough Psychiatric Treatments
Periglandula clandestina, a previously undiscovered species living out of symbiosis with morning glory plants, has revealed a remarkable capacity to produce ergot alkaloids that mirror the pharmacology of LSD. The discovery, made by Corinne Hazel and her team at West Virginia University, opens fresh avenues for addressing conditions such as depression, PTSD, and addiction.
Key Findings
- Ergot Alkaloid Production – The fungus synthesizes powerful α‑blockers that induce smooth muscle contraction, a trait central to the therapeutic use of LSD‑derived derivatives.
- Large‑Scale Efficiency – Periglandula clandestina demonstrates exceptional yield, offering a scalable source for drug development.
- Genetic Confirmation – Genome sequencing confirmed a distinct species, with the sequence now archived under Hazel’s name.
Historical Context
The ergot alkaloids produced by the fungus share structural similarities with the compounds Albert Hofmann modified when inventing LSD in 1938. Prior speculation that morning glories contained a fungal source of LSD‑like alkaloids remained unproven until Hazel’s confirmation.
Clinical Implications
Although ergot alkaloids are historically associated with toxicity in grain crops such as rye, their application in medicine—treating migraines, dementia, uterine hemorrhage, and Parkinson’s disease—follows a careful balance of efficacy and safety.
Future Directions
Hazel is currently refining cultivation methods to culture the slow‑growing fungus and investigating whether other Ipomoea species harbor similar symbiotic alkaloid producers.
Published in Mycologica as “A new species of Periglandula symbiotic with the morning glory Ipomoea tricolor,” this study represents a significant stepping stone toward novel psychiatric pharmacotherapies.
