Chapter 20, Problem 14STP

Summary Introduction

To write: The examples of three ways that fungi are important for human foods.

Introduction: In the Kingdom Fungi belong some of the largest and oldest species on Earth. There is a honey fungus in eastern Oregon that is so large it's called the "Humongous Fungus." Many of the fungi are heterotrophic eukaryotes. There are over 100,000 species of fungi.

Explanation of Solution

Fungi have many medical uses. The deuteromycete, Penicillium notatum can be used as a source of penicillin. This antibiotic has saved countless lives. Chemical compounds found in the fungus Claviceps purpurea are used to reduce high blood pressure, to control excessive bleeding, to treat migraine headaches, and to promote contractions during childbirth. The drug paclitaxel is an important drug that stops cancer cells from growing.

Conclusion

Chemical compounds found in the fungus Claviceps purpurea are used to reduce high blood pressure, to control excessive bleeding, to treat migraine headaches, and to promote contractions during childbirth.