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Exploring the Anti-Cancer Potential of Ganoderma Lucidum Polysaccharides (GLPs) and Their Versatile Role in Enhancing Drug Delivery Systems: A Multifaceted Approach to Combat Cancer

Summary

This research explores how compounds from the medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (known as Reishi) can be used to fight cancer and improve cancer treatments. The study shows that these mushroom compounds can help kill cancer cells while reducing the side effects of chemotherapy. The researchers also developed new ways to deliver these compounds directly to cancer cells using tiny particles. Impacts on everyday life: – Provides a natural option for supporting conventional cancer treatments – Could lead to cancer therapies with fewer side effects – Demonstrates how traditional medicines can be enhanced with modern technology – Opens new possibilities for more effective cancer drug delivery methods – Shows potential for improving quality of life during cancer treatment

Background

Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal mushroom known as ‘Lingzhi’ in China and ‘Reishi’ in Japan, has been used for over two centuries in Asian countries for its health-promoting properties. The mushroom contains various bioactive compounds, with polysaccharides being a key component responsible for its diverse therapeutic effects. Recent research has shown increasing interest in natural bioactive products for their potential health benefits, particularly in cancer treatment.

Objective

The primary focus of this study was to investigate the anti-cancer activities of G. lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs), with particular attention to their potential to mitigate chemotherapy-associated toxicity and enhance targeted drug delivery. The study also aimed to explore the potential of GLPs-based nanoparticles as delivery vehicles for bioactive constituents.

Results

The findings revealed that GLPs exhibit anti-cancer effects through multiple mechanisms, including cytotoxicity, antioxidative properties, apoptosis induction, reactive oxygen species generation, and anti-proliferative effects. GLPs-based nanoparticles demonstrated effectiveness in targeting various cancer tissues and enhancing the biological activity of encapsulated compounds. The studies showed GLPs’ ability to reduce chemotherapy-related side effects and improve treatment outcomes when used in combination therapies.

Conclusion

GLPs derived from G. lucidum represent a promising avenue for inhibiting cancer progression, minimizing chemotherapy-related side effects, and supporting their utilization in combination therapies as natural adjuncts. The research demonstrates the potential of GLPs-based nanoparticles in targeted drug delivery systems and highlights their versatility in cancer treatment approaches.
  • Published in:Cancer Cell International,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.1186/s12935-023-03146-8
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