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Comparative Study of Contents of Several Bioactive Components in Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia of Culinary-Medicinal Mushrooms

Summary

This research compared the levels of important health-promoting compounds in different parts of medicinal mushrooms. The study found varying amounts of three beneficial compounds – lovastatin (which can help lower cholesterol), GABA (a calming neurotransmitter), and ergothioneine (an antioxidant) – in both mushroom caps and underground growth. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps identify which mushroom species are best for specific health benefits • Provides guidance for supplement manufacturers to optimize production methods • Assists consumers in making informed choices about mushroom products • Contributes to the development of more effective mushroom-based medicines • Supports the growing functional food industry

Background

Mushrooms, including both fruiting bodies and mycelia, contain important bioactive components such as lovastatin, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and ergothioneine that have potential medicinal properties.

Objective

To analyze and compare the contents of lovastatin, GABA, and ergothioneine in fruiting bodies and mycelia across different species of culinary-medicinal mushrooms.

Results

Cyathus striatus strain 978 mycelia contained the highest amount of lovastatin (995.66 mg/kg). Among fruiting bodies, 6 samples showed high GABA content (274.86-822.45 mg/kg), while mycelia samples showed GABA content ranging from 215.36 to 2811.85 mg/kg. Pleurotus cornucopiae strain 1101 mycelia contained the highest amount of ergothioneine (3482.09 mg/kg).

Conclusion

The three bioactive components were commonly found in most mushroom samples, with varying concentrations between fruiting bodies and mycelia. These findings suggest potential beneficial effects related to these bioactive compounds.
  • Published in:International Journal of Medical Mushrooms,
  • Study Type:Comparative Analysis,
  • Source: PMID: 23662618
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