Antioxidant Activity of Mushroom Extracts/Polysaccharides—Their Antiviral Properties and Plausible AntiCOVID-19 Properties

Author: mycolabadmin
11/26/2021
View Source

Summary

Mushrooms contain special compounds called polysaccharides that act as natural antioxidants and can fight viruses. These compounds help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. While mushrooms have shown promise against various viruses including COVID-19, more research is needed to fully develop them as treatments.

Background

Mushrooms have been recognized for their medicinal properties in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Recent research has highlighted their bioactive polysaccharides and other compounds with diverse therapeutic potential. This review consolidates knowledge on mushroom bioactivity, particularly focusing on antioxidant and antiviral properties.

Objective

To review the antioxidant activity and mechanisms of mushroom extracts and polysaccharides, consolidate their antiviral applications, and explore potential antiCOVID-19 properties. The review emphasizes gaps in utilization of mushrooms as natural antivirals and their potential against COVID-19.

Results

Mushroom polysaccharides, particularly β-glucans, demonstrate significant antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging, metal chelation, and enzyme modulation. Multiple mushroom species show antiviral effects against HSV, influenza, HIV, hepatitis viruses, and other pathogens. Evidence suggests potential for COVID-19 applications through immune modulation and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Conclusion

Mushroom polysaccharides exhibit robust antioxidant and antiviral properties with mechanisms well-documented in literature. While promising antiCOVID-19 potential exists through immune modulation and oxidative stress reduction, significant research gaps remain requiring expansion of current knowledge into clinical applications.

Published in:Antioxidants (Basel),
Study Type:Review,
Source: PMC8750169, PMID: 34943001