Viral infections are amongst the most common diseases affecting people worldwide. New viruses emerge all the time and presently we have limited number of vaccines and only few antivirals to combat viral diseases. Fungi represent a vast source of bioactive molecules, which could potentially be used as antivirals in the future. Here, we have summarized the current knowledge of fungi as producers of antiviral compounds and discuss their potential applications. In particular, we have investigated how the antiviral action has been assessed and what is known about the molecular mechanisms and actual targets. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of accurate fungal species identification on antiviral and other natural products studies.

Wood residues from forestry industries can be potential raw materials for specialty and edible mushroom production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of wood residues for the cultivation of Ganoderma lucidum originating from boreal forests. The substrates tested included sawdust and wood chips of Betula spp., Populus tremula, Picea abies, Pinus sylvestris and Larix sp. The suitability of the substrates and the ability of the strains to develop fruiting bodies and produce β-glucan were evaluated. Fruiting body formation was supported by applying two different cold shock treatments to substrate bags. The highest yields were observed with MUS192 strain and Betula spp. and P. tremula wood-based substrates. β-Glucan content in the fruiting bodies was highest with the MUS75 and P. tremula wood-based substrate. Based on these findings, the combination of P. tremula wood residues and the MUS192 strain is proposed to enhance the yield and β-glucan content of the fruiting bodies. A cold treatment of 5 °C is suggested to induce primordia formation and to increase fruiting probability. This is the first time that strains of G. lucidum originating from boreal forests have been compared and successfully cultivated simulating commercial indoor cultivation.

Sawmill industries generate considerable amounts of low value wood residues. Fungal decomposition of lignocellulosic biomass allows the conversion of wood residues into valuable products. The selection of the most suitable fungal strains and media are essential to optimise the bioconversion of wood residues and serves as a basis for mushroom cultivation industries. The aim of this study was to find the best combinations of Ganoderma lucidum strains and substrate media to optimise the cultivation of the fungus. Mycelial growth and culture characteristics of G. lucidum isolated from Betula pubescens and Picea abies in Finland were tested on agar media containing different wood residues. These included Betula spp., Populus tremula, Larix sp., Pinus sylvestris, Alnus incana and P. abies sawdust, which were added to malt extract agar, potato dextrose agar and water agar. The results showed significant differences in the mycelial growth between all interaction levels (agar media, wood species and fungal strain). The addition of malt extract significantly enhanced the growth of the fungus in comparison to potato dextrose or water agar. The wood sawdust