Apr. 2024 Newsletter

We're proud to share news of an inspiring scientific endeavor that recently concluded at The Plant! This study was a collaboration among multiple businesses within The Plant: Back of the Yards Algae Sciences (BYAS) — a 'circular economy' industrial biotechnology company and one of the only such companies on Chicago's South Side; Parow Entheobiosciences — a fully integrated drug development company; Whiner Beer Co. — a microbrewery dedicated to the Belgian tradition of bacteria and alternative yeast fermentations; and Bubbly Dynamics, owners and operators of The Plant.

Parow Entheobiosciences led this groundbreaking study in the field of neuroplasticity — our brain's remarkable ability to adapt, grow, and heal, which is crucial in combating various mental health issues. The research was legally conducted in BYAS's DEA-licensed laboratory, built by Bubbly Dynamics with repurposed equipment. BYAS conducted the critical extraction and purification processes, adopting a zero-waste model to cultivate psychedelic mushrooms using spent grain from Whiner Beer’s brewing process.

This collaboration celebrates our collective commitment to resource sharing, community engagement, and waste reduction practices at The Plant. While this research was strictly for scientific understanding (so please, don't show up at The Plant looking for psychedelic mushrooms!), it paves the way for future explorations into the benefits of psychedelics for mental health and human well-being. To read the full study, click here. To read our April Newsletter in full, click here!