Innovative Use of Mushrooms in Sustainable Material Development

Scientists at McMaster University have unveiled groundbreaking advancements in sustainable material design, harnessing the capabilities of the common split gill mushroom (Schizophyllum commune). This research, published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts in June 2025, showcases the potential of this versatile fungus as a biodegradable alternative to conventional materials such as plastics and leather.

The split gill mushroom is notable for its extensive genetic diversity, boasting over 23,000 mating types, which positions it as a promising candidate for material innovation. Researchers focused on mycelium, the dense network of fungal fibers, which can be cultivated and processed into various forms suitable for different applications. According to Dr. Jianping Xu, a Professor of Biology at McMaster University and lead author of the study, "It's possible to use natural genetic variation that already exists in nature and to make combinations that will potentially fit into all kinds of materials, not just one."

The research team investigated 16 different strains of the split gill mushroom, including four monokaryons and 12 of their dikaryotic offspring, to determine the effects of genetic variation on material yield and quality. They employed a liquid fermentation method, growing mycelium mats over 12 days, and utilized two chemical crosslinkers—polyethylene glycol (PEG) and glycerol—to enhance the structural integrity of the resulting films.

Findings revealed that the interaction between nuclear and mitochondrial DNA influences the physical properties of the films produced. For instance, films treated with glycerol were characterized by their pliability, while those treated with PEG exhibited greater stiffness and strength, albeit with increased brittleness. Statistical analyses confirmed that no single strain outperformed all others across the board; rather, specific combinations of strains and treatments yielded varying degrees of strength, flexibility, and water resistance.

Electron microscopy studies showed that PEG-treated films preserved more aerial hyphae and featured rougher surfaces, while glycerol-treated films were smooth and gelatinous. This roughness could affect the materials' durability and functionality in practical applications. The research also indicated that PEG films displayed high absorbency due to superwicking properties, making them suitable for packaging applications, while glycerol films demonstrated consistent moisture attraction, ideal for use in wearable materials.

This study not only provides insight into the potential for creating environmentally friendly materials but also highlights the scalability of the processes involved. The liquid-state surface fermentation approach is more efficient and easier to replicate than traditional methods. The researchers suggest that techniques such as protoplast fusion or selective mating could further broaden the range of material options available.

However, the study is not without limitations. The untreated control films disintegrated too quickly to analyze, and the researchers could not explore every possible genetic combination, indicating that further investigation is necessary to standardize strain selection and link genetic traits to material qualities. Despite these challenges, the findings lay a robust groundwork for future developments in sustainable material design, indicating a shift towards utilizing nature's genetic diversity rather than engineering materials from the ground up.

As the demand for sustainable materials grows in various industries—ranging from textiles to construction—the implications of this research could be far-reaching. By tapping into nature's existing genetic resources, scientists are reshaping the landscape of material science, paving the way for a more sustainable future.