The use of Hericium erinaceus and Trametes versicolor extracts in supportive treatment in oncology

Summary & key facts

This paper reviews research on two edible mushrooms, Hericium erinaceus (lion's mane) and Trametes versicolor (turkey tail). Studies done in cells and in animals show that chemicals from these mushrooms can change how the immune system works, reduce inflammation, and maybe slow cancer growth or help nerves regrow. The authors say these effects could help support people getting chemotherapy, and they argue these mushroom extracts have stronger justification than many other supplement-based supportive treatments. Most of the evidence so far comes from lab and animal work, so we need more studies in people to know how well they actually work in patients.

Key facts:

• The review focuses on two edible fungi: Hericium erinaceus (lion's mane) and Trametes versicolor (turkey tail).
• Lab tests and studies in mice found that extracts from these mushrooms can modify the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Some lab and animal studies also reported possible anticancer effects and signs that the extracts might help nerve cells regrow.
• The authors suggest the immune effects of these extracts could support chemotherapy, meaning they might help alongside cancer treatment rather than replace it.
• Most of the evidence comes from tests in cells and animals, so it is not yet clear how well these effects translate to people.

Abstract

Substances available in nature with potential therapeutic effects are the subject of research that raises tremendous hopes for new challenges in medicine. Fungi are the most common organisms in the ecosystem and the most interesting in this respect. This review discusses two species of edible fungi, used for centuries in Eastern natural medicine, with the best-documented effect - Hericium erinaceus (He) and Trametes versicolor (Tv). The results of in vivo and in vitro studies conducted on mice and human cell lines demonstrate immunomodulatory, potentially, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and neuroregenerative effects of substances isolated from these fungi. The substances contained in the extracts of He and Tv seem to have immunomodulatory effects that may support chemotherapy. The use of these extracts is justified stronger than the other supportive treat ments based on supplements.

Topics

Fungal Biology and Applications Phytochemistry and Bioactivity Studies Polysaccharides and Plant Cell Walls

Categories

Health Sciences Medicine Pharmacology

Tags

Alternative medicine Biochemistry Biology Botany Enzyme Hericium erinaceus Laccase Medicine Mycelium Pathology Pharmacology Traditional medicine Trametes versicolor

Substances

Other