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Recent Advances in the Use of Ganoderma lucidum and Coriolus versicolor Mushrooms to Enhance the Anticancer Efficacy of EGFR-Targeted Drugs in Lung Cancer

Summary

This review explores how two medicinal mushrooms traditionally used in Asian medicine—Lingzhi and Yunzhi—can enhance the effectiveness of lung cancer drugs (EGFR-TKIs) and help overcome drug resistance. These mushrooms contain special compounds that can fight cancer in multiple ways, boost the immune system, and reduce side effects. The research suggests that combining these mushrooms with standard cancer treatments may improve outcomes for lung cancer patients.

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with NSCLC accounting for over 85% of cases. EGFR-TKIs have shown clinical efficacy in EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients, particularly in Asian populations with high EGFR mutation frequencies. However, most patients eventually develop drug resistance, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.

Objective

This review examines the beneficial combination of Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) and Coriolus versicolor (Yunzhi) medicinal mushrooms with EGFR-TKIs to overcome drug resistance in EGFR-mutated NSCLC. It highlights the effects of these mushrooms on oncogenic signaling pathways, anticancer immunity, and their potential to enhance EGFR-TKI efficacy.

Results

Lingzhi and Yunzhi exhibit multifaceted antitumor activities through inhibition of EGFR signaling, suppression of angiogenesis, reversal of multidrug resistance, and modulation of tumor immunity. These mushrooms enhance NK cell, T cell, and macrophage activities while reducing immunosuppressive cells. Preclinical studies demonstrate synergistic effects when combined with EGFR-TKIs in overcoming resistance mechanisms.

Conclusion

Lingzhi and Yunzhi represent promising adjuvant therapies for EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients receiving EGFR-TKI therapy. Their bioactive polysaccharides and triterpenes can overcome drug resistance, enhance antitumor immunity, and reduce treatment-related side effects. However, herb-drug interactions involving drug transporters and cytochrome P450 enzymes require careful consideration in clinical applications.
  • Published in:Pharmaceutics,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 40733125
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