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Exploring the Bioactive Potential of Calostoma insigne, an Endangered Culinary Puffball Mushroom, from Northeastern Thailand

Summary

This research investigated a rare, eye-shaped mushroom called Calostoma insigne that grows in Thai rainforests and is eaten by local people. Scientists confirmed traditional beliefs that the mushroom has health benefits, discovering it has antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic properties. The study also determined the best way to grow this mushroom in laboratories, which could help conserve the endangered species while providing a sustainable food and health resource.

Background

Calostoma insigne is an endangered puffball mushroom found in Southeast Asian rainforests that is consumed as a local food in Thailand. The species is ectomycorrhizal, symbiotically bonded with Dipterocarpaceae trees, and expected to decline due to forest loss. Traditional beliefs suggest the mushroom has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but these claims lack scientific validation.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the bioactive potential of Calostoma insigne, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-glucosidase, and anticancer activities. The research also sought to identify optimal laboratory growth conditions for mycelial biomass production to support conservation efforts.

Results

The ethanolic gelatinous fruiting body extract exhibited 57.96% DPPH-scavenging capacity, 1.73 mg FeSO₄/g FRAP value, and 73.18% α-glucosidase inhibition. Against HT-29 colon cancer cells, the extract showed IC₅₀ of 770.6 µg/mL (72h) for cytotoxicity and 297.1 µg/mL for antiproliferative activity. Optimal mycelial growth occurred in 20% potato + 2% sucrose + 0.2% peptone medium at pH 5.0 and 30°C, yielding 2.74 g DW/100 mL.

Conclusion

Calostoma insigne demonstrates significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer potential through polysaccharide bioactive compounds. The mushroom stimulates apoptotic pathways in HT-29 cells via intrinsic mechanisms. These findings support conservation efforts and sustainable utilization of this endangered species as both food and potential therapeutic agent.
  • Published in:Foods,
  • Study Type:Experimental/Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/foods13010113; PMID: 38201139
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