Anti-aging and Neuroprotective Properties of Grifola frondosa and Hericium erinaceus Extracts

Author: mycolabadmin
2022-10-18
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Summary

This research investigated how extracts from two medicinal mushrooms – Grifola frondosa (Maitake) and Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) – could help prevent aging and protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. The study found these mushroom extracts can extend lifespan and reduce harmful protein accumulation in cells. Impact on everyday life: – These mushrooms could be incorporated into daily diet as natural anti-aging supplements – May help prevent or slow the progression of age-related brain diseases – Offers a safe, natural alternative to synthetic drugs for maintaining brain health – Could reduce healthcare costs associated with age-related conditions – Demonstrates the importance of including medicinal mushrooms in a healthy diet

Background

Nutrition has important implications for human health, with growing evidence showing medicinal mushrooms have various beneficial effects. A major challenge in Western countries is aging and age-related diseases like neurodegenerative disorders. Parkinson’s disease affects 10 million people worldwide and is associated with α-synuclein misfolding, which is found in conditions called synucleinopathies.

Objective

To investigate the anti-aging and neuroprotective effects of aqueous extracts from two edible mushrooms, Grifola frondosa and Hericium erinaceus, by examining their impact on yeast lifespan, α-synuclein toxicity, and protein aggregation. Additionally, to test the neuroprotective activity of G. frondosa extract in a Parkinson’s disease model using Drosophila melanogaster.

Results

Both mushroom extracts extended yeast lifespan through inhibition of the Ras/PKA pathway and increased stress resistance. The extracts reduced α-synuclein toxicity by decreasing protein aggregation, lowering ROS levels, and reducing membrane localization. G. frondosa extract increased lifespan in the Drosophila PD model by approximately 15-17%. Chemical analysis revealed the extracts contained β-glucans, amino acids, ergothioneine, and other bioactive compounds.

Conclusion

G. frondosa and H. erinaceus extracts demonstrate significant anti-aging effects and reduce α-synuclein toxicity through multiple mechanisms. These findings suggest their potential use as functional foods to prevent aging and age-related disorders, particularly supporting their neuro-healthy properties.

Published in:Nutrients,
Study Type:Experimental Research,
Source: 10.3390/nu14204368