Glowing fungi expose final enzyme that could make bioluminescent tools more efficient
Researchers have discovered the final enzyme involved in the bioluminescence pathway of certain fungi, which could lead to the development of more efficient bioluminescent tools. The enzyme, called caffeylpyruvate hydrolase, breaks down a molecule called oxyluciferin into caffeic and pyruvic acids, allowing the fungus to sustain its bioluminescence. This finding has potential applications in medicine, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and biotechnology, and could lead to the creation of self-sustained light-emitting systems in other organisms.
- ▪The bioluminescence pathway of fungi involves four enzymes, including caffeylpyruvate hydrolase (CPH).
- ▪CPH breaks down oxyluciferin into caffeic and pyruvic acids, which can be reused to sustain bioluminescence.
- ▪The discovery of CPH's role in the bioluminescence pathway could lead to the development of more efficient bioluminescent tools.
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May 20, 2026 Glowing fungi expose final enzyme that could make bioluminescent tools more efficient by Wiley edited by Stephanie Baum, reviewed by Robert Egan Stephanie Baum Scientific Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Robert Egan Associate Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Editors' notes This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked trusted source proofread The GIST Add as preferred source Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Like fireflies and many deep-sea creatures, certain fungi can naturally emit light through bioluminescence pathways in which specialized enzymes convert chemical energy into…
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