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Mushrooms of the Genus Ganoderma Used to Treat Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

Summary

This research examines how certain medicinal mushrooms from the Ganoderma family could help treat diabetes naturally. These mushrooms contain compounds that can lower blood sugar levels and help the body use insulin more effectively. This is important because current diabetes medications often have unwanted side effects. Impacts on everyday life: – Provides a potential natural alternative to conventional diabetes medications – Could help reduce healthcare costs associated with diabetes treatment – Offers hope for people seeking gentler treatment options with fewer side effects – May help prevent diabetes complications when used as part of treatment – Could lead to development of new diabetes medications based on mushroom compounds

Background

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder caused by lack of insulin and insulin dysfunction characterized by hyperglycemia. The International Diabetes Federation reported that in 2017, adults with diabetes worldwide reached 415 million, up from 151 million in 2000. Estimates suggest this could reach 629 million by 2045. Current diabetes treatments have limitations and side effects, leading to interest in natural alternatives like medicinal mushrooms from the Ganoderma genus.

Objective

This review aims to summarize the perspectives, recent advances, and major challenges of using medicinal mushrooms from the Ganoderma genus for their antidiabetic activity, with focus on their most active ingredients – polysaccharides and triterpenoids.

Results

Multiple studies showed that Ganoderma polysaccharides and triterpenoids exhibit significant antidiabetic effects through various mechanisms including: inhibition of α-glucosidase and aldose reductase enzymes, improved insulin sensitivity, reduced blood glucose levels, protection of pancreatic β-cells, and regulation of hepatic glucose metabolism. Key compounds like ganoderic acids, ganoderol B, and various polysaccharides demonstrated potent hypoglycemic activity.

Conclusion

While Ganoderma species show promising antidiabetic potential through their polysaccharides and triterpenoids, more research is needed before practical medical applications. Key areas requiring further study include standardization of sources, structure-function relationships, interaction with food ingredients, improved preparation methods, and complete toxicological profiles. Additional clinical trials are needed to fully validate safety and efficacy.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/molecules24224075
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