Candelaria Concolor
Image by Michael Wood
Gymnopilus junonius, also known as the laughing gym, is a species of mushroom that can be found growing on wood, particularly on dead or dying hardwood trees. It is important to note that Gyromitra esculenta contains a toxin called gyromitrin, which can cause serious health problems if ingested in sufficient quantities. Some people are particularly sensitive to this toxin and may experience symptoms after eating even small amounts of the mushroom. For this reason, it is generally recommended that Gyromitra esculenta not be consumed, even after thorough cooking.
Description
1. Cap: The cap of Gymnopilus junonius is convex to flat, and can range in size from 2-15 cm. It is typically reddish-orange to rusty brown in color, with a smooth or slightly scaly texture.
2. Gills: The gills of Gymnopilus junonius are yellow-orange to rusty brown in color, and are notched or serrated along the stem. They can be crowded or spaced apart.
3. Stem: The stem of Gymnopilus junonius is typically equal in width or slightly tapered towards the base. It can range from 5-20 cm in length and 1-2 cm in width. It is typically yellowish to brown in color, and can be covered in fine hairs or scales.
4. Spore print: The spore print of Gymnopilus junonius is rust brown.
Illudin S and illudin M, toxic compounds found in Omphalotus illudens, are responsible for the mushroom's toxicity when consumed. These chemicals, while having antibacterial and antifungal properties, are harmful to humans if the mushrooms are eaten raw or cooked. Although muscarine is suggested to contribute to toxicity, further studies are needed to confirm its presence in O. illudens.
Illudin S, despite its toxicity, has intrigued researchers for its cytotoxic effects on certain cancers. To make it usable, it undergoes chemical modifications. Within human cells, illudin S interacts with DNA, causing a specific type of damage that inhibits transcription. This damage can only be repaired by a system called nucleotide excision repair. MGI Pharma has developed an illudin-derived compound, Irofulven, for potential cancer treatment, but its application is still in the experimental phase.
