Shillong, Jan 10: Edible mushrooms, long celebrated as a culinary delicacy, are now poised to revolutionize gut health, thanks to pioneering research by Dr. Yugal Kishore Mohanta, Assistant Professor and Group Leader of the Nanobiotechnology and Translational Knowledge Laboratory at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM).

Dr. Mohanta’s latest project, MYCO-BIO, aims to harness mushrooms’ untapped prebiotic potential by creating symbiotic microcapsules that could transform functional food development. This ambitious research, awarded the prestigious international Research Networking Project (RNP-2024) grant, is a collaboration with Professor Renald Blundell of the University of Malta. Together, they seek to pioneer therapeutic foods that merge innovation and natural resources.

Why mushrooms?

Beyond their culinary appeal, these fungi are rich in prebiotic fibers—non-digestible ingredients that fuel beneficial gut microorganisms. This makes them an ideal candidate for crafting functional foods that not only enhance gut health but also help prevent and manage chronic diseases.

“This endeavor will significantly advance the development of functional foods, leveraging mushrooms as a promising resource for the future,” said Dr. Mohanta, who envisions a world where everyday foods double as potent health boosters.

Funded by XJENZA MALTA under the Government of Malta, the project also aligns with USTM’s mission to foster international research collaborations. It will offer researchers and students from both institutions the opportunity to exchange ideas and unlock new avenues in biotechnological innovation.

Dr. Mohanta’s impressive track record in research, including his recent project supported by the Department of Science and Technology—Anusandhan National Research Foundation (DST-ANRF), positions him at the forefront of the functional food revolution. As MYCO-BIO takes shape, the humble mushroom is set to become an essential player in the future of health and nutrition.

Read: Meghalaya receives over ₹1,300 Crore as part of Union Govt. tax devolution

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