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Lipid Fraction from Agaricus brasiliensis as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Lethal Sepsis in Mice

Summary

Researchers tested a special extract from the Agaricus brasiliensis mushroom (rich in a compound called ergosterol) to treat severe sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection, in mice. When mice were given this mushroom extract alone, 67% survived, and when combined with antibiotics, 100% survived compared to none with saline alone. The extract reduced inflammation, protected the liver, fought bacteria, and reduced harmful free radicals in the body, suggesting it could be a valuable addition to antibiotic treatment for sepsis.

Background

Sepsis is a potentially fatal condition resulting from immune imbalance during infection, characterized by excessive pro-inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress. Agaricus brasiliensis is a nutraceutical fungus with known immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and antitumor activities. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of the lipid fraction of A. brasiliensis in a lethal sepsis model induced by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP) in mice.

Objective

To evaluate the therapeutic potential of the lipid fraction (LF) of Agaricus brasiliensis, rich in ergosterol, in a lethal sepsis mouse model, either as monotherapy or combined with the antibiotic ertapenem.

Results

LF treatment alone resulted in 66.7% survival, while combined LF-ertapenem achieved 100% survival compared to 0% in saline controls. LF reduced pro-inflammatory markers, ROS, MDA, and bacterial load while increasing antioxidant GSH levels. Combined treatment demonstrated superior hepatoprotective effects with reduced liver enzymes and improved bacterial clearance in both peritoneal cavity and liver.

Conclusion

The lipid fraction of Agaricus brasiliensis demonstrates significant therapeutic potential as a hepatoprotective, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory agent in lethal sepsis, with enhanced efficacy when combined with antibiotic therapy.
  • Published in:Antioxidants (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Animal Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39199173, DOI: 10.3390/antiox13080927
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