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Grifola frondosa (Maitake) Extract Reduces Fat Accumulation and Improves Health Span in C. elegans Through the DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/NRF2 Signalling Pathways

Summary

This research investigated how an extract from maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) could help prevent obesity and improve health. The study found that the mushroom extract reduced fat accumulation, decreased oxidative stress, and extended lifespan in experimental organisms. This has important implications for human health and disease prevention. Key impacts on everyday life: • Could lead to new natural supplements for weight management • May help prevent obesity-related diseases like diabetes and heart disease • Offers potential anti-aging benefits through natural compounds • Provides scientific support for traditional uses of maitake mushroom • Suggests new ways to develop healthier functional foods

Background

Obesity and metabolic syndrome-related diseases are increasing worldwide, contributing to increased healthcare spending. These conditions can lead to metabolic alterations like low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, and premature aging. Food ingredients rich in bioactive compounds have emerged as candidates to prevent excess adiposity and metabolic complications. Mushrooms, particularly Grifola frondosa (maitake), have gained attention for their high polysaccharide content and other bioactive components with beneficial properties.

Objective

To investigate the potential anti-obesity, antioxidant and anti-aging activities of a Grifola frondosa extract (GE) using the C. elegans model, and to determine the underlying mechanisms of action.

Results

The GE extract showed high polysaccharide and phenolic compound content with antioxidant activity and was found to be non-genotoxic. Treatment with GE significantly reduced fat content in C. elegans by 18.64%, decreased intracellular ROS production and aging-related lipofuscin pigment, and increased lifespan. The effects were mediated through the daf-16/FOXO and skn-1/NRF2 signaling pathways. The fat-reducing activity was specifically dependent on daf-16/FOXO pathway activation.

Conclusion

The Grifola frondosa extract demonstrates significant anti-obesity, antioxidant, and life-prolonging properties in C. elegans through activation of DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/NRF2 signaling pathways. These findings suggest potential applications for this extract as a functional ingredient in preventing metabolic syndrome-related diseases, though further research in mammalian models is needed.
  • Published in:Nutrients,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/nu13113968
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