Abstracts

Fungal bioluminescence, observed in over 125 species within the Agaricales order, arises from the oxidation of luciferin derived from caffeic acid catalyzed by luciferase enzymes. This intricate process intertwines the Krebs cycle and the Shikimic Acid pathway, enabling the organisms to emit light spontaneously. Genetic manipulation of luciferase has led to the creation of bioluminescent reporters and organisms capable of sustaining their glow, marking significant strides in biotechnology. Fungi, as sessile organisms, may employ bioluminescence for communication, particularly with spore-dispersing organisms, as indicated by the emission of light from the mycelium. However, luminescence is observed only in specific mushrooms, often from distinct parts like the pileus and stipe, presenting challenges for human observation due to variations in bioluminescent intensity across fungal cell organization. Transcriptional regulation of bioluminescence genes influences the intensity and duration of light emission, adding further complexity to the phenomenon. From historical insights to contemporary biotechnological applications, this work encompasses the breadth of fungal bioluminescence, elucidating the mechanistic underpinnings of biological glow. Exploring the biochemical and chemical processes driving fungal light emission contributes to a deeper understanding of chemiexcitation's role in biological phenomena. This presentation will emphasize the ecological significance of fungal bioluminescence, highlighting its potential applications in biotechnology, and captivates researchers and enthusiasts alike with nature's luminescent wonders. [1] Stevani C. V., Zamuner C. K., Bastos E. L., de Nóbrega B. B., Soares D. M. M., Oliveira A. G., Bechara E. J. H., Shakhova E. S., Sarkisyan K. S., Yampolsky I. V., Kaskova Z. M. (2024) The living light from fungi. J. Photochem. Photobiol. C: Reviews 58: 100654.