Plain-English explainers for the science terms in mushroom & psychedelic research.
Definition: Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a naturally occurring protein that promotes the growth, survival, and maintenance of specific neurons in the nervous system. In plain English: NGF is like a “growth hormone” for nerve cells. It helps neurons develop, stay healthy, and repair themselves after injury. Think of it as a maintenance crew that…
Definition: Hericium erinaceus—commonly called Lion’s Mane—is a white, shaggy mushroom prized for its culinary and medicinal properties, especially its potential to support brain health. In plain English: Lion’s Mane looks like a cluster of white, dangling icicles and grows on hardwood logs in temperate forests. It has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries,…
Definition: Microdosing is the practice of taking very small, sub‑threshold doses of psychedelic substances—typically around 1/10 to 1/20 of a recreational dose—to influence mood, cognition, or creativity without producing full psychedelic effects. In plain English: Imagine taking a tiny pinch of a mushroom that’s strong enough to feel a subtle shift in your thoughts or…
Definition: Psilocin is the active monoamine compound that produces psychedelic effects when ingested, acting primarily as a serotonin (5‑HT₂A) receptor agonist. In plain English: Psilocin is the chemical that actually triggers the mind‑altering experiences associated with “magic mushrooms.” It is produced in the body when the mushroom’s precursor, psilocybin, is metabolized. Because it directly stimulates…
Definition: Beta‑glucans are soluble polysaccharides composed of glucose units linked by β‑glycosidic bonds, commonly found in the cell walls of mushrooms, oats, and yeast. In plain English: Think of beta‑glucans as long chains of sugar molecules that act like a natural fiber. They’re not vitamins or proteins, but they’re prized for their ability to interact…
Definition: Neurogenesis is the biological process by which new neurons are generated in the brain, a phenomenon that persists mainly in the adult hippocampus of mammals. In plain English: Neurogenesis means the brain’s ability to make fresh nerve cells. Unlike most tissues, the adult brain can still add neurons, but only in a few special…
Definition: The 5‑HT2A receptor is a serotonin‑binding protein located on the surface of many brain cells that transmits signals when serotonin or psychedelic compounds attach to it. In plain English: – Think of it as a lock on the surface of a neuron that opens when the chemical serotonin (or certain psychedelics) comes along. –…
Definition: The default mode network (DMN) is a set of brain regions that are most active when a person is at rest and not focused on the outside world. In plain English: Think of the DMN as the brain’s “idle mode” – it lights up when you’re day‑dreaming, recalling memories, or thinking about yourself. It…
Definition: Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to experience, learning, or injury. In plain English: When you practice a skill or encounter new information, the connections between neurons change—some strengthen, others weaken, and new ones can even appear. This rewiring lets the brain adapt, recover, and…
Definition: BDNF, or brain‑derived neurotrophic factor, is a protein that promotes the growth, survival, and functional plasticity of neurons in the brain. In plain English: BDNF is like a nutrient that tells brain cells (neurons) how to grow, stay healthy, and adapt to new experiences. It helps neurons form and strengthen connections, which is essential…