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Synergistic Immuno-Modulatory Activity in Human Macrophages of a Medicinal Mushroom Formulation Consisting of Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake

Summary

This research examined how combining three medicinal mushrooms (Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake) could enhance immune system function. The scientists found that when used together, these mushrooms worked better at stimulating immune cells than when used individually. This synergistic effect could lead to improved immune support supplements. Impacts on everyday life: • Better understanding of how natural supplements can support immune health • More effective mushroom-based immune support products • Potential for improved natural alternatives for immune system support • Enhanced value from combining specific mushroom species • Scientific validation of traditional mushroom medicine practices

Background

Medicinal mushrooms contain various bioactive compounds with immunomodulatory activities, including polysaccharides, polysaccharopeptides, phenolic compounds, proteins, lipids and terpenoids. Approximately 80% of mushroom cell walls consist of polysaccharides, with about half being β-glucans. β-Glucans, particularly branched (1,3:1,6) β-glucans of fungal origin, are potent immunological stimulators in humans that interact with immune cells in gut-associated lymphoid tissue.

Objective

To analyze nine commercially available preparations from three mushroom species (Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake) for β- and α-glucan content, select three extracts to combine into a formula based on glucan profiles, and evaluate their ability to impact cytokine expression in human macrophages.

Results

The majority of mushroom extracts and the formula were highly potent immuno-stimulators with EC50 values lower than 100 μg/mL. The mushroom formula demonstrated lower EC50 values in TNF-α expression from LPS stimulated macrophages compared to individual extracts. Response additivity and curve-shift analyses confirmed synergistic immuno-modulatory effects for most cytokines evaluated, with IL-10 showing an antagonistic response.

Conclusion

This study represents the first report of a synergistic immuno-modulatory response in human macrophages elicited from a mushroom formula rationally derived from β- and α-glucan content. The formula showed synergistic induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1α, IL-6 and TNF-α, while demonstrating an antagonistic effect on anti-inflammatory IL-10 expression.
  • Published in:PLOS One,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224740
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