MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Immune regulatory functions of biologically active proteins from edible fungi

Summary

This research compared how proteins from 22 different edible mushrooms affect immune system cells called macrophages. The study found that all the mushroom proteins tested boosted immune function by making macrophages more active and productive. Interestingly, expensive rare mushrooms like cordyceps and ganoderma lucidum had stronger immune-boosting effects than common grocery store mushrooms like oyster and button mushrooms.

Background

Mushrooms contain diverse bioactive components including proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, and phenolics with immunomodulatory properties. While polysaccharides have been extensively studied, fungal immunomodulatory proteins have received less attention despite their potent antitumor and immunostimulatory functions.

Objective

To systematically compare the immunomodulatory activities of proteins from twenty-two edible mushroom species, including thirteen precious and nine common varieties, and assess their effects on mouse macrophages.

Results

All edible mushroom proteins increased macrophage proliferation and phagocytosis while promoting ROS and nitric oxide secretion. Proteins enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokine production (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ), promoting M1-type macrophage polarization. Precious mushroom proteins demonstrated significantly higher immunomodulatory activity compared to common edible mushroom proteins.

Conclusion

Edible mushroom proteins effectively enhance immune function through macrophage activation and cytokine production. The immunomodulatory activity of precious edible mushrooms is substantially higher than common varieties, with important implications for food processing and product development.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Immunology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 36713368, DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1034545
Scroll to Top