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Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Ganoderma lucidum in Cancer

Summary

Ganoderma lucidum, a mushroom used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, shows promise in fighting certain blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. The mushroom contains special compounds that can kill cancer cells in multiple ways—by triggering cancer cell death, boosting the immune system, and preventing cancer cell growth. While laboratory studies are very encouraging, more testing in humans is needed before it can be used as a standard cancer treatment.

Background

Ganoderma lucidum is a medicinal fungus used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. It contains bioactive compounds including triterpenoids and polysaccharides that possess various pharmacological properties. Recent evidence suggests potential therapeutic benefits in hematological malignancies.

Objective

This review aims to explore the therapeutic potential of Ganoderma lucidum and its secondary metabolites, particularly ganoderic acid and polysaccharides, in treating hematological malignancies including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. The review examines mechanisms of action and cellular pathways through which these compounds interact with neoplastic cells.

Results

G. lucidum demonstrated anti-proliferative activity in 26 different human cancer cell types, with strongest effects in leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma lines. Studies showed the fungus induces apoptosis through multiple pathways including mitochondrial damage, stimulates immune response, activates MAP-K pathways, and promotes macrophage-like differentiation without cytotoxic effects on normal cells.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests Ganoderma lucidum has significant potential for incorporation into clinical practice for treating hematological malignancies. The bioactive compounds work through multiple mechanisms including apoptosis induction, immune stimulation, and cellular differentiation. However, further clinical studies are needed to establish safety and efficacy in human patients.
  • Published in:Journal of Clinical Medicine,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 38398467, DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041153
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