The University of Queensland researchers have identified the substance in an edible mushroom that stimulates neuron growth and improves memory.
The scientists had discovered novel active chemicals from the mushroom Hericium erinaceus, according to Professor Frederic Meunier from the Queensland Brain Institute.
In pre-clinical studies, scientists have found that lion's mane mushrooms enhance memory and brain cell proliferation.
The so-called "lion's mane" mushrooms and their extracts have long been used in traditional Asian medicine,
Professor Meunier and his team sought to conduct a scientific analysis of their possible impact on brain cells.
"Pre-clinical research revealed the lion's mane mushroom significantly influenced brain cell proliferation and enhanced memory.
ntriguingly, we discovered that the active chemicals in Hericium erinaceus have neurotrophic effects on cultured brain cells by promoting neuron projections
active chemicals in Hericium erinaceus which stretch and link to neighbouring neurons.
We discovered that the mushroom extract and its active ingredients significantly boost the size of growth cones
active ingredients which are crucial for brain cells to sense their environment and form new connections with other neurons in the brain, using super-resolution microscopy