Advances in Mushroom Research: Breakthroughs and Future Directions

This book offers a comprehensive overview of the latest findings in mushroom science, covering diverse domains such as cultivation, ecology, therapeutic potential, sustainable materials, and environmental applications. With contributions from leading researchers, this volume highlights the conservation and sustainable cultivation of edible and medicinal mushrooms, focusing on innovative substrates, smart farming practices, and region-specific case studies like the Indian scenario.

The book explores challenges and opportunities in producing high-quality mushrooms, particularly in small-scale industries, and discusses the integration of IoT-based systems to enhance yield and efficiency. It provides in-depth insights into the bioactive compounds of mushrooms, their nutraceutical properties, and their therapeutic potential in boosting immunity and addressing neurodegenerative conditions. In addition to their health benefits, mushrooms are portrayed as eco-friendly agents with wide industrial applications―ranging from pollution remediation to the development of sustainable leather, textiles, and packaging materials.

This book is an essential resource for researchers, students, entrepreneurs, and professionals in mycology, food science, pharmacology, environmental science, and biotechnology. It is especially valuable for those interested in functional foods, sustainable practices, and industrial applications of fungi.

Dr. Bhoopander Giri is a Professor in the Department of Botany, University of Delhi, Delhi, India. He has worked as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology and as a Raman Post-Doctoral Fellow at the Department of Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, USA. Prof. Giri has served as an Associate Fellow at The Energy and Resources Institute, New Delhi. Prof. Giri has published more than 60 papers in the peer-reviewed journals and books. Prof. Giri has served as the General Secretary for International Symbiosis Society, USA and an editorial board member of the journal ‘Scientific Reports’. Prof. Giri has presented his research work at several international conferences.

Dr. Isha Gunwal is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany, Swami Shraddhanand College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India. She has published more than 20 papers in peer-reviewed journals. She is a life member of several prestigious academic societies. Her research focuses on phytoremediation using mycorrhiza and the effects of biological factors on edible mushrooms. Dr. Gunwal has made significant contributions to bio-waste management through the cultivation of oyster mushrooms and the phytoremediation of heavy metals using Vetiver grass. She is committed to teaching and mentoring undergraduate students.

Prof. Payal Mago is a distinguished academician and administrator. She is the Principal of Shaheed Rajguru College of Applied Sciences for Women and holds prestigious positions including Director of the Campus of Open Learning, Director of Udhmodya foundation, Dean of the Faculty of Open Learning, and Director of the Women's Studies & Development Centre, at the University of Delhi. Prof. Mago has authored over 37 research papers in peer-reviewed journals, 8 chapters and edited 11 books. She played a pivotal role in developing more than 137 innovative skill courses to enhance student’s employability. She is a consultant for mushroom cultivation, showcasing her diverse expertise to both education and practical applications in her field.

Dr. Rupam Kapoor is Professor in Department of Botany, University of Delhi, India. She specializes in the field of Plant-fungus interactions. She has contributed immensely to understanding the role of AMF in alleviation of abiotic stress. Recently she has completed project on mushrooms of Kargil – the cold dessert of India. Dr. Kapoor has successfully completed several research projects sponsored by various funding agencies such as DBT, DST and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Her name has been listed in the global ranking of top 2% scientists of the world for their contribution in their respective fields by Stanford University for four consecutive years (2020-2023). She has more than 100 publications in peer-reviewed journals and edited four books. Prof. Kapoor is an adjunct Professor at Department of Environmental Science Hamdard University.

Dr. Siva Raseetha is a distinguished faculty member at the Faculty of Applied Sciences, UiTM Shah Alam, Malaysia. She has completed her postdoctoral research at the Mushroom Research Centre, University of Malaya. Her research expertise encompasses mushroom studies, including fresh mushrooms, postharvest treatments, and downstream products. Dr. Raseetha serves as the Vice Treasurer for the Malaysian Mushroom Researchers and Entrepreneurs Association. Dr. Raseetha has organized international symposium in collaboration with PERTEMA, AIMS partners, and the Malaysian Mushroom Researchers and Entrepreneurs Association, supported by the Malaysian Societies Registration Department and served as a prelude to the 10th International Conference on Mushroom Biology and Mushroom Products held at University Malaya (2023).