As part of Chemistry Week, taking place at Altai State University from May 19 to 23, scientists from the Institute of Chemistry and Chemical Physics of Natural Sciences have prepared a series of popular science articles. Today, Associate Professor Denis Minakov, Doctor of Technical Sciences from the Department of Organic Chemistry, explains how bees and fungi join forces in the struggle for survival.
Young scientists from the Department of Organic Chemistry at Altai State University have developed an innovative product designed to protect bees, based on extracts derived from fungi.
Higher basidiomycetes, a group of fungi, are gaining increasing recognition in apiculture due to their unique biologically active compounds. Extracts obtained from both the mycelium and fruiting bodies of these mushrooms exhibit strong immunomodulatory and antiviral properties. These effects enhance the resilience of bee colonies against stress and diseases, thereby reducing the risk of colony collapse syndrome.
The primary active constituents in basidiomycete extracts are β-glucans — polysaccharides known for their potent ability to stimulate the immune system of bees. When these extracts are incorporated into bee feed, they significantly boost the insects’ resistance to viral and bacterial infections, improve their overall health, and extend their lifespan.
Denis Minakov, Associate Professor of the Department of Organic Chemistry, explains:
"Scientific research and practical trials have demonstrated that multifunctional supplements containing basidiomycete extracts rich in β-glucans effectively enhance bees’ immunity and improve honey quality. β-glucans are not digested in the small intestine; instead, they serve as a substrate for the intestinal microflora, promoting a healthier microbiota and strengthening the mucous membrane. These compounds activate innate immunity by stimulating phagocytic cells and the production of cytokines, which helps bees to combat pathogens more efficiently. Such supplements also help mitigate the harmful effects of pesticides, support metabolic processes, and increase the overall vitality of bee colonies."
To obtain the active components, the mycelium or fruiting bodies of fungi are cultivated, after which water-soluble β-glucans are extracted, precipitated, and purified. The resulting products are incorporated into bee feed as solutions based on sugar syrup, ensuring ease of administration and high bioavailability of the active substances.
Basidiomycete extracts also exhibit antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress in bees and enhance their overall health. The use of such biopreparations supports environmentally sustainable beekeeping practices and reduces dependence on chemical protective agents.
Some of the research on the "Study of the effect of entomopathogenic fungi on the Varroa destructor mite — a harmful parasite of bees" was carried out within the framework of the "Student Startup" grant competition, part of the federal project "University Technological Entrepreneurship Platform," with financial support from the Foundation for Assistance to Small Innovative Enterprises in the Scientific and Technical Sphere.
Evgeny Savrasov, Head of the student startup, a postgraduate student, comments:
"Several promising drug samples have already been developed and are set to be tested in regional apiaries. It is expected that the introduction of these new products, based on fungi extracts, will not only enhance the disease resistance of bee colonies but also promote the environmental safety of honey production in Altai Krai."
The development of the young chemists from Altai State University is part of a broader initiative aimed at creating environmentally safe and effective beekeeping products. This approach helps to minimize the use of chemicals that could adversely affect both bee health and the quality of the honey produced.