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Tramesan, a Novel Polysaccharide from Trametes versicolor: Structural Characterization and Biological Effects

Summary

Scientists have discovered and characterized a unique sugar-based molecule called Tramesan produced by the medicinal mushroom Trametes versicolor. This molecule acts as a natural antioxidant enhancer across different organisms, helping them better manage harmful oxidative stress. The research shows several practical applications that could impact everyday life: • Could help reduce toxic mold contamination in food crops by preventing fungi from producing harmful toxins • May provide a natural way to protect agricultural plants from disease • Shows potential as a treatment for certain cancers by helping control cancer cell growth • Demonstrates how natural compounds from mushrooms can have broad beneficial effects across different biological systems • Could lead to development of new natural antioxidant supplements or therapeutic agents

Background

Mushrooms represent a valuable source of bioactive compounds that can act as biological response modifiers, including antibiotics, immune system stimulators, antitumor agents, and hypolipidemic agents. The Chinese medicinal mushroom Trametes versicolor has traditionally been used to replenish essence and vital energy. Previous studies indicated that extracts from T. versicolor culture filtrate showed potential activity in controlling growth and secondary metabolism of plant pathogenic fungi.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize an exo-polysaccharide named Tramesan released in T. versicolor culture filtrate and evaluate its biological activity in different organisms including plants, mammals and plant pathogenic fungi. The researchers sought to determine if Tramesan’s bioactivity relies on its ability to act as a pro-antioxidant molecule across different biological systems.

Results

Tramesan was identified as a branched fucose-enriched fungal polysaccharide of about 23 kDa. It significantly inhibited aflatoxin production in A. flavus and A. parasiticus without affecting fungal growth, while triggering expression of oxidative stress-related genes. In wheat, Tramesan enhanced plant defense against P. nodorum infection by increasing antioxidant responses. In murine melanoma cells, it increased melanin production and Nrf-2 expression while reducing cell growth.

Conclusion

This study presents the first structural characterization of Tramesan, a branched fungal glycan secreted by T. versicolor that acts as a pro-antioxidant molecule across different organisms. By enhancing natural antioxidant defenses, Tramesan shows potential applications in reducing toxin contamination in food, preventing plant diseases, and controlling cancer cell growth through its ability to modulate cellular redox balance.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171412
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