Aeruginascin

Aeruginascin is a tryptamine derivative which is found in the Psilocybe genus of mushrooms, particularly in the species Psilocybe aeruginosa. It is structurally related to the active compounds psilocybin and psilocin, but unlike these substances, aeruginascin is not known to be psychoactive.

Chemistry

Aeruginascin is a indoleamine derivative, and is structurally similar to other tryptamine-based compounds. It is an alkaloid, a class of naturally occurring compounds that contain mostly basic nitrogen atoms. This includes many of the other compounds found in Psilocybe mushrooms.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of aeruginascin in Psilocybe mushrooms is not fully understood. It is believed to be synthesized from tryptophan, an amino acid, through a series of enzymatic reactions. This is similar to the biosynthesis of other tryptamine derivatives.

Pharmacology

While aeruginascin is structurally similar to the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, it is not known to be psychoactive itself. However, it has been suggested that it may modulate the effects of these substances in the body, although this is not yet fully understood.

Toxicity

The toxicity of aeruginascin is not well studied. However, it is not considered to be a major toxic component of Psilocybe mushrooms.

See also

• Psilocybin
• Psilocin
• Tryptamine
• Indoleamine
• Alkaloid