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Fungi's Ice-Forming Proteins Could Revolutionize Weather and Food Preservation

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers found that soil fungi produce proteins that catalyze ice formation at temperatures up to -2 degrees Celsius, in Science Advances.
The fungal proteins operate independently of fungal cells and could provide a non-toxic alternative to silver iodide for cloud seeding.
The proteins may enhance food preservation and medical applications by freezing water more efficiently.
Virginia Tech-led researchers say the fungi could influence global weather patterns and improve climate models.

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Story summary

Researchers found that soil fungi produce proteins that catalyze ice formation at temperatures up to -2 degrees Celsius, in Science Advances.
The fungal proteins operate independently of fungal cells and could provide a non-toxic alternative to silver iodide for cloud seeding.
The proteins may enhance food preservation and medical applications by freezing water more efficiently.
Virginia Tech-led researchers say the fungi could influence global weather patterns and improve climate models.