MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Bioactive Potential of Balkan Fomes fomentarius Strains: Novel Insights into Comparative Mycochemical Composition and Antioxidant, Anti-Acetylcholinesterase, and Antiproliferative Activities

Summary

This study examines three strains of Fomes fomentarius mushroom from the Balkan region, revealing they are rich sources of beneficial compounds including polyamines and phenolic compounds. These extracts demonstrated strong antioxidant properties and potential neuroprotective effects, suggesting they could help prevent diseases related to oxidative stress and aging. The research supports the traditional use of this mushroom in folk medicine and highlights its potential as a natural supplement for health promotion.

Background

Fomes fomentarius has been valued since the 15th century across Europe for medicinal and traditional uses including wound healing and hemostasis. Despite extensive global use, data on traditional applications in the Balkan region remain scarce. This study addresses the need to characterize the bioactive potential of Balkan F. fomentarius strains.

Objective

To conduct a comparative analysis of three Balkan F. fomentarius strains focusing on mycochemical composition including micro- and macroelements, polyamines, and phenolic compounds, and to evaluate their antioxidant, anti-acetylcholinesterase, and antiproliferative activities.

Results

Total polyamine levels ranged from 32.67 to 2910.09 nmol/g dry weight, with spermidine as the predominant polyamine. LC-MS/MS identified six novel phenolic compounds in F. fomentarius including amentoflavone, baicalein, chrysoeriol, esculetin, and scopoletin. Polar extracts (EtOH and MeOH) from Croatian and Serbian strains showed higher total phenolic content and notable antioxidant activity.

Conclusion

The study reveals the therapeutic potential of polar extracts from Balkan F. fomentarius, particularly for managing oxidative stress-related diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. Findings highlight the species as a significant source of bioactive polyamines and phenolic compounds with notable anti-acetylcholinesterase and antiproliferative activities.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Comparative Analytical Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13061210, PMC12195499, 40572099
Scroll to Top