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Chemical Characterization and Antioxidant Potential of Wild Ganoderma Species from Ghana

Summary

This research examined the chemical composition and health benefits of wild Ganoderma mushrooms found in Ghana. The study revealed these mushrooms are rich in nutrients and beneficial compounds that have antioxidant and potential anticancer properties. The findings help validate traditional medicinal uses of these mushrooms in Ghana. Impacts on everyday life: – Identifies local mushroom species as potential sources of natural antioxidants and nutrients – Supports development of sustainable mushroom-based supplements and medicines – Provides scientific backing for traditional medicinal mushroom use – Could lead to new cultivation methods for producing beneficial compounds – May create economic opportunities through mushroom cultivation and processing

Background

Ganoderma species are diverse polypores that are difficult to distinguish morphologically. Ganoderma lucidum is particularly important due to its abundance of bioactive polysaccharides and other beneficial molecules. These mushrooms contain β-glucans which are linked to anticancer and antimetastatic activities through immunostimulating and antioxidant properties. While Ganoderma has been well-studied in Asia, less is known about African varieties.

Objective

To investigate the chemical composition and antioxidant properties of twelve wild Ganoderma species collected from the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, with nine strains (LS1-LS9) found growing simultaneously on the same dying Delonix regia tree. The goal was to evaluate their potential for biotechnological applications.

Results

The analysis revealed protein content of 15.7-24.5 g/100g, carbohydrates 73.31-81.90 g/100g, fats 0.48-1.40 g/100g, and energy 396.1-402.02 kcal/100g. Major fatty acids included linoleic, oleic and palmitic acids. Free sugars included rhamnose, fructose, mannitol, sucrose and trehalose. Total tocopherols ranged from 741-3191 μg/100g, organic acids 77-1003 mg/100g, and phenolic compounds 7.6-489 μg/100g. The three main minerals were potassium, phosphorus and sulfur. Strain AM1 showed the highest antioxidant activity.

Conclusion

The chemical and bioactive properties of the Ganoderma species were found to be more dependent on the strains (biotic factors) than the collection sites (abiotic factors). The mushrooms contained important nutrients and bioactive compounds including reducing sugars, organic acids, phenolics, fatty acids, tocopherols, ergosterol, vitamin D and β-glucans. Further research is needed on production methods and extraction of bioactive metabolites to develop efficient biotechnological applications.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Chemical Analysis,
  • Source: 10.3390/molecules22020196
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