MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Isaria tenuipes Peck, an Entomopathogenic Fungus from Darjeeling Himalaya: Evaluation of In-vitro Antiproliferative and Antioxidant Potential of its Mycelium Extract

Summary

This research examined the medicinal properties of Isaria tenuipes, a fungus found in the Darjeeling Himalaya region. The study found that extracts from this fungus have strong antioxidant properties and can kill cancer cells. This has important implications for everyday life: • Could lead to new natural antioxidant supplements to help prevent oxidative stress-related diseases • May contribute to development of new cancer treatments with fewer side effects than current options • Demonstrates the value of preserving biodiversity in the Himalayan region as a source of medicinal compounds • Shows potential for sustainable production of natural medicines through fungal cultivation • Validates traditional Asian medicine practices that have used this fungus as a health supplement

Background

Darjeeling Himalaya is situated between 87°59’– 88°53’E and 28°31’–27°13’N in the Eastern Himalayan region of India. This region has diverse climatic zones favoring luxuriant vegetation growth and is rich in fungal resources. Isaria tenuipes is an entomopathogenic fungus that parasitizes insects and produces bioactive compounds. It has been traditionally used as medicine and health food in Asian countries for strengthening immunity and energy recovery.

Objective

To evaluate the in vitro antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of the crude methanolic extract from the mycelium of Isaria tenuipes collected from Darjeeling Himalaya.

Results

The extract contained 148.09 ± 3.51μg gallic acid equivalent/mg total phenols and 9.02±0.95 μg quercetin/mg flavonoids. It showed significant antioxidant activities with 74.77% DPPH radical scavenging at 10mg/ml (IC50 4.97 mg/ml), 44.42% ABTS radical scavenging, 86.76% Fe2+ chelating ability, and 49.82% hydroxyl radical scavenging. The extract demonstrated strongest cytotoxicity against HeLa cells with IC50 of 43.45μg/ml, showing 93.41% inhibition at 100μg/ml. Flow cytometry revealed dose-dependent apoptosis induction.

Conclusion

The crude methanolic extract of Isaria tenuipes mycelium exhibited potent antioxidant and antiproliferative activities, suggesting its potential as a source of natural antioxidative and antiproliferative agents. The extract initiates cancer cell death via apoptosis, though cytotoxic activity varies with cell types and extract concentrations.
  • Published in:BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies,
  • Study Type:In Vitro Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/s12906-020-02973-w
Scroll to Top