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Evaluation of Anticancer Potential of Ganoderma lucidum on MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells Through Genetic Transcription of Energy Metabolism

Summary

Researchers tested extracts from Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) against breast cancer cells in the laboratory. They found that the methanol extract was particularly effective at killing cancer cells while leaving healthy cells relatively unharmed. The mushroom works by disrupting the cancer cells’ metabolism and triggering programmed cell death, making it a promising natural treatment option that could complement conventional cancer therapies.

Background

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi/Lingzhi) has long been recognized for its medicinal properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pro-apoptotic effects. Breast cancer remains a significant global health issue, being the most diagnosed cancer worldwide. Natural compounds with multi-targeted mechanisms offer promising alternatives to conventional therapies with more favorable safety profiles.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic and molecular effects of ethanol and methanol extracts of G. lucidum on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The research examined phytochemical composition, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis induction, and gene expression changes related to energy metabolism.

Results

The methanol extract showed stronger cytotoxicity (IC50: 62.37 µg/mL) than ethanol extract with G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest and increased apoptotic populations. HPLC revealed high levels of vanillic acid, gallic acid, and (-)-epicatechin in methanol extract. RT-qPCR showed significant downregulation of ACAT1, ADCY3, and NME2 genes in G. lucidum-treated cells, indicating metabolic disruption.

Conclusion

G. lucidum induces apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells through metabolic disruption and gene modulation, with the methanol extract demonstrating superior cytotoxic effects. The downregulation of energy metabolism genes suggests that the extract impairs cancer cell proliferation through multiple molecular pathways. These findings support G. lucidum as a promising candidate for integrative breast cancer therapy, though further clinical trials are needed.
  • Published in:Antioxidants (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMC12730045, PMID: 41462671, DOI: 10.3390/antiox14121471
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