Biotransformation of tryptamine derivatives in mycelial cultures of Psilocybe

High amounts of 4-hydroxy-N,N-diethyltryptamine (up to 3.3%) were isolated from fruiting bodies of Psilocybe cubensis.

• Mycelial cultures of Psilocybe cubensis can form psilocybin and psilocin from basic components.
• A specific transformation of synthetic N,N-diethyl-tryptamine into its hydroxylated derivatives occurs.
• 4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-diethyltryptamine was also isolated, though in much smaller amounts (0.01-0.8%).
• The study presents the first instance of fungi directing the biosynthesis of tryptamine compounds.
• Surface cultures of Psilocybe semilanceata showed effective biotransformation of N-methyltryptamine.
• Baeocystin, a potential precursor of psilocybin, was detected and quantified in the fungal biomass.

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