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Modulation of NKG2D, KIR2DL and Cytokine Production by Pleurotus ostreatus Glucan Enhances Natural Killer Cell Cytotoxicity Toward Cancer Cells

Summary

This research investigated how compounds from oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) can boost the immune system’s natural ability to fight cancer. Scientists found that specific sugar molecules from these mushrooms can activate special immune cells called Natural Killer (NK) cells, making them better at destroying breast and lung cancer cells. This effect was even stronger when combined with an immune-stimulating protein called IL2. Impacts on everyday life: – Demonstrates potential for using natural mushroom compounds as part of cancer treatment – Shows how common edible mushrooms may have immune-boosting properties – Provides scientific support for traditional medicinal uses of mushrooms – Opens possibilities for developing new natural anti-cancer therapies – Suggests dietary inclusion of mushrooms may support immune health

Background

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries against cancer and infectious diseases due to their ability to stimulate immune cells. Natural killer (NK) cells are important components of the innate immune system that can target and damage various cells including cancer cells. Mushroom polysaccharides have shown potential as antitumor agents through both direct effects and indirect immunomodulatory mechanisms.

Objective

To investigate the possible immunomodulatory effects of mushroom polysaccharides extracted from Pleurotus ostreatus on NK cells against different cancer cell lines and elucidate their mechanisms of action at cellular and molecular levels.

Results

P. ostreatus polysaccharides induced NK-cell cytotoxic effects against lung and breast cancer cells, with the strongest effect (81.2%) observed against breast cancer cells. NK cell activation was associated with upregulation of KIR2DL genes while cytotoxic activation correlated with NKG2D upregulation and increased IFNγ and NO production. These cytotoxic effects were enhanced by IL2. Analysis showed the most active fraction was predominantly composed of 6-linked glucans.

Conclusion

Bioactive glucans present in P. ostreatus extracts activate NK-cell cytotoxicity through regulation of activation markers and induction of IFNγ and NO production. The studies establish a positive role for P. ostreatus polysaccharides in NK-cell activation and induction of innate immune responses against breast and lung cancer cells.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00165
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