B-Glucans from Grifola frondosa and Ganoderma lucidum in Breast Cancer: An Example of Complementary and Integrative Medicine

Author: mycolabadmin
2018-05-15
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Summary

This research examines how two medicinal mushrooms – Reishi and Maitake – can help in breast cancer treatment when used alongside conventional therapies. These mushrooms contain natural compounds that boost the immune system and may directly fight cancer cells. Here’s how this research impacts everyday life: • Provides a natural complementary option for cancer patients seeking to enhance their conventional treatment • Offers potentially fewer side effects compared to traditional cancer treatments alone • Shows how traditional Asian medicine can be integrated with modern Western medical practices • Demonstrates the importance of gut health in cancer treatment through mushrooms’ effects on beneficial bacteria • Opens new possibilities for developing more effective cancer treatments using natural compounds

Background

Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) is becoming an increasingly popular component of oncology care, combining complementary practices with conventional medicine. Medicinal mushrooms, particularly Grifola frondosa (Maitake) and Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), have been used for centuries in Asian countries and have shown promising anticancer properties through immunomodulation and direct antitumor effects.

Objective

To review and describe the emerging mechanisms of action of mushrooms’ anticancer functions and their potential clinical applications. The review aimed to evaluate the effects of mycotherapy using G. lucidum and G. frondosa on long-term survival, tumor response, host immune functions, inflammation, and quality of life in cancer patients, with a focus on breast cancer.

Results

The review found that both mushroom species contain bioactive compounds including β-glucans, glycoproteins, and triterpenes that demonstrate immunomodulating and direct anticancer properties. G. lucidum showed ability to modulate cancer cell signaling by inhibiting NF-κB nuclear translocation and RAS-MAPK activation. G. frondosa’s MD-fraction demonstrated direct antitumor activity in breast cancer cells and immunostimulatory capabilities. Clinical studies showed potential benefits in cancer regression and symptom improvement, particularly when used as complementary therapy with conventional treatments.

Conclusion

While mushroom therapy shows promise, particularly as a complementary treatment alongside conventional cancer therapies, more rigorous clinical trials are needed. Current evidence suggests better outcomes when mushroom preparations are used as integrative therapy with chemotherapy/radiotherapy rather than as standalone treatments. The mushrooms appear well-tolerated with minimal toxicity, but standardization of preparations and administration protocols is needed for more reliable clinical applications.

Published in:Oncotarget,
Study Type:Systematic Review,
Source: 10.18632/oncotarget.24984