Student Discovers Psychedelic Fungus with Pharmaceutical Potential

Corinne Hazel, a West Virginia University microbiology student, has discovered a new species of fungus, Periglandula clandestina, that produces ergot alkaloids similar to LSD. This discovery has significant pharmaceutical implications, as LSD is used to treat conditions like depression, PTSD, and addiction. Hazel's discovery, made while studying morning glory plants, was confirmed through genome sequencing. The fungus's high efficiency in producing ergot alkaloids opens new avenues for drug development and potential treatments for various ailments.