Infectious Fungi - Dr. Neil Gow

We are joined by Mycologist Neil Gow who has formal training in mycology, especially in relation to infectious fungi. On today's show, we look at fungi through the lens of pathogenic interactions with humans. Which fungi are most likely to cause a human zombie apocalypse? What happens when you inject psilocybin tea into your veins? Although his research is on combating fungal infections, Neil is a big time mycophile with jaw dropping information on this impressive kingdom of life. Topics covered:Common fungal infections in humans The status of research and understanding of pathogenic fungi, esp with humansWhy are fungal infections so hard to treat?What are the mechanisms of fungal infection in humans?Mucormycosis or the "black fungus" outbreaks The pervasiveness of candidaEvolution of drug resistant fungi Case Study: Intravenous Injection of PsilocybinThe morbid question: which fungal species are most likely to cause zombie humans?Forensic mycology and microbiologyPrevalence of fungal productsThe mycobiome and mutualism between human and fungal speciesShow notes:What is this field of Mycology?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3farm1uFrbINeil Gow's Publications: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Neil-Gow-2The Genus Plague: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33946360-the-genius-plagueA “Trip” to the ICU: An Intravenous Injection of Psilocybin: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S266729602030015XvECMM: https://www.ecmm.info/fecmm/fellows/gow-neil/WHO Data on Fungal Infections: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/the-top-10-causes-of-deathhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7278517/www.mushroomrevival.comWe are a functional mushroom company and make 100% certified USDA Organic and Vegan mushroom supplements. We are transparent with our lab results, and use actual fruiting bodies aka mushrooms! We provide our supplements in tincture, capsule, powder, and delicious gummy form. Energy (Cordyceps): Need a little pick-me-up before a workout or when you’re picking up your kids from school? The Energy Cordyceps is the mushy match for you.Focus (Lion’s Mane):  Needing a little more focus in your daily life? Lion’s Mane is known to be the mushroom for the brain and may support cognitive function.Calm (Reishi): Looking for some tranquility and zen in your life? Reishi will bring you into the zen state of mind you’ve been searching for.Daily 10 (Mushroom Mix): It’s like having 10 bodyguard mushrooms fighting off all those bad guys. This is a good place to start as it contains all of the daily mushies you need. Not sure where to begin? Take our mushroom quiz here.Use code ‘PODTREAT’ for a 30% discount.