Antioxidative, Antifungal, Cytotoxic and Antineurodegenerative Activity of Selected Trametes Species from Serbia
- Author: mycolabadmin
- 2018-08-31
- View Source
Summary
This research explored the medicinal properties of three species of Trametes mushrooms, finding they contain compounds that could help fight cancer, protect brain health, and combat fungal infections. The study shows these mushrooms may be valuable natural sources for developing new treatments.
Impacts on everyday life:
• Could lead to new natural treatments for cancer with fewer side effects
• May help develop treatments for neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease
• Provides scientific backing for traditional mushroom-based medicines
• Offers potential natural alternatives to synthetic antifungal medications
• Demonstrates the importance of preserving fungal biodiversity for medical research
Background
Mushrooms have been traditionally used as healthy food and in medicine across both Western and Eastern cultures, but their pharmacological potential remains underutilized. Among nearly 60 described Trametes species, only a few have been screened for medicinal properties despite records confirming their use in traditional Chinese medicine for removing toxins, treating infections, strengthening immunity, and improving liver and spleen function.
Objective
To evaluate the antifungal, antioxidative, cytotoxic and antineurodegenerative potential of basidiocarp and mycelium extracts of selected Trametes species (T. gibbosa, T. hirsuta and T. versicolor).
Results
Mycelial extracts showed higher antifungal potential compared to basidiocarp extracts. Basidiocarp extracts demonstrated stronger antioxidant effects than mycelium extracts. Mycelium extracts exhibited stronger cytotoxic effects against cancer cell lines compared to basidiocarp extracts. T. versicolor mycelium extract was the most effective acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, while T. gibbosa mycelium extract showed significant tyrosinase inhibition. Chemical analysis indicated synergistic action between triterpenes, sugars and polyphenols.
Conclusion
The tested Trametes species demonstrated significant medicinal potential through their antioxidative and cytotoxic activities. Both basidiocarp and mycelial extracts showed strong inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase activities. The results suggest these species could be valuable in developing complementary strategies for cancer therapies and neurodegenerative disorders.
- Published in:PLoS One,
- Study Type:Laboratory Research,
- Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203064