Comparative proteomic analysis reveals the effects of different light spectra on protein expression in Hericium erinaceus mycelium

In this study, a total of 4,618 proteins were identified in <i>H. erinaceus</i>, of which 560 were expressed across all experimental conditions. Comparative proteomic analysis under different light treatments revealed 550-677 DEPs per condition, with the blue-light treatment exhibiting the greatest number of uniquely expressed proteins. Light exposure modulated GO-enriched metabolic, biosynthetic, and enzymatic functions in <i>H. erinaceus</i>. RGB induced the broadest responses, while blue, green, and red produced distinct wavelength-specific regulatory patterns. KEGG pathway analysis showed wavelength-dependent proteomic shifts in <i>H. erinaceus</i>, with RGB inducing the strongest metabolic and signaling responses, while blue, green, and red differentially activated energy, biosynthesis, and regulatory pathways. These results support the molecular-mechanistic approach employed and offer valuable insights into protein expression dynamics and regulatory pathways, while also clarifying how different light qualities influence the developmental processes of <i>H. erinaceus</i>.