Molecular structure behind how psilocybin is made

Psilocybin shows significant therapeutic potential for various psychiatric conditions.

• The study elucidates the crystal structures of key enzymes involved in psilocybin biosynthesis.
• Mechanisms of self-cleavage and self-inhibition in the enzyme PsiD are revealed.
• Sequential catalytic steps from 4-hydroxytryptamine to psilocybin are characterized.
• Biosynthetic intermediates of psilocybin demonstrate antidepressant properties in female mice with depression-like behaviors.
• The findings provide a structural basis for enhancing psilocybin production and highlight the potential of norbaeocystin.

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