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Extraction, purification, and identification of total saponins from hazel mushroom and its application evaluation

Summary

Researchers developed an efficient method to extract beneficial compounds called saponins from hazel mushrooms using microwaves. They identified 22 different chemical compounds in these extracts and tested their effects on cancer cells and oxidative stress. The saponin extracts significantly inhibited the growth of lung cancer and bone cancer cells and demonstrated antioxidant properties, suggesting hazel mushrooms could be developed into functional foods or medicines.

Background

Hazel mushroom (Tricholoma) is a medicinal fungus prevalent in North America, Europe, and Asia containing various bioactive compounds. While approximately 100 compounds have been isolated from hazel mushroom, saponins have not yet been systematically studied. Saponins are recognized bioactive substances with multiple biological properties including anti-tumor, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and optimize a microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) method for saponins from hazel mushroom using response surface methodology. The research sought to characterize the extracted saponins via UPLC/Q-TOF-MS and evaluate their anticancer and antioxidant activities.

Results

Optimal extraction parameters were determined as: ethanol concentration 57.52%, solid-liquid ratio 1:25 g/mL, extraction time 20.00 min, and extraction power 369.75 W, yielding 34.61% extraction rate. UPLC/Q-TOF-MS identified 22 compounds including sesquiterpenes, adenosine, sterols, purines, and diterpenes. SHM exhibited significant dose-dependent cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction on both cancer cell lines, with A549 cells showing 93.58% inhibition at 400 μg/mL. SHM demonstrated moderate antioxidant activity with DPPH radical scavenging activity of 94.01% at 25 mg/mL.

Conclusion

This is the first systematic study on saponins from hazel mushroom, providing valuable methodology for extraction optimization, quality control, and bioactivity evaluation. The findings indicate that hazel mushroom saponins possess significant anti-tumor and antioxidant properties, positioning them as promising candidates for functional food and pharmaceutical development. Future studies should include in vivo confirmation and chemical stability analysis.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Nutrition,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41586216, DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1737642
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