Economic utilization of xylotrophic basidiomycetes: a review

Abstract

The current trend towards the use of biological raw materials and the development of unique technologies in demand in agriculture, ecology, materials science, medicine and pharmacy has led to a rapid growth of interest in representatives of a special kingdom of living organisms – fungi. Fungi are one of the key biological resources that can be used to develop a wide range of eco-friendly products with promising applications. The review presents an analysis of modern achievements in the economic utilization of xylotrophic basidiomycetes. They are of great interest for sustainable nature management due to their ability to decompose lignocellulosic materials using unique enzymatic systems, and to produce a wide range of metabolites with antimicrobial, antitumor, immunostimulating, neuroprotective and other valuable properties. White and brown rot fungi play an important role in waste processing and the closed-loops manufacturing creation due to high degradation activity against complex polymers. The article considers promising areas of their application in the bioeconomy, including agriculture, food and pharmaceutical industries, materials science, and the production of biocomposite materials based on fungal mycelium. Xylotrophic fungi are used in agriculture to create biofertilizers that improve soil structure and increase its fertility. Fungi are a valuable source of protein, vitamins, and minerals in the food industry. Basidiomycete metabolites are of interest to the pharmaceutical industry due to their antimicrobial and antiviral activity, as well as their involvement in the immune system regulation. Composites based on mycelium and plant waste are used in packaging, construction, design of the furniture and interiors, thereby reducing the plastic impact on the environment. We analyze the environmental aspects and economic benefits of the practical use of xylotrophic fungi in various sectors of the national economy, and consider further prospects for the introduction of xylotrophic basidiomycetes in solving current issues and sustainable development of society.