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Yamabushitake Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Pers. 1797) Mycelium Improves Reproductive System Dysfunction in Male Rats Induced by Polystyrene Microplastics

Summary

A study found that Yamabushitake mushroom extract can help protect male reproductive health from damage caused by polystyrene microplastics found in everyday plastic products. The mushroom’s active compound, erinacine A, reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in rats, improved hormone levels, and enhanced sperm quality. This research suggests the mushroom could be developed into a supplement for men concerned about their fertility and reproductive health in our plastic-filled environment.

Background

Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) are significant environmental pollutants that have been linked to male reproductive system dysfunction through oxidative stress and inflammation. Hericium erinaceus is an edible mushroom traditionally used in East Asian medicine with bioactive metabolites including erinacine A that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Objective

This study investigated the protective effects of erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus mycelium (HE) on reproductive system dysfunction in male rats induced by high-fat diet and polystyrene microplastic exposure. The research aimed to evaluate HE’s effects on oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, reproductive hormones, and sperm quality.

Results

HE treatment significantly reduced nitric oxide levels, enhanced glutathione peroxidase activity, and downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β). HE increased Kiss1 concentration and reproductive hormones (FSH, testosterone), improved sperm count, and reduced sperm abnormalities. Histological analysis showed HE restored seminiferous tubule morphology.

Conclusion

Erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus mycelium provides protection against PS-MP-induced reproductive dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines. These findings support HE as a potential functional food ingredient or supplement for treating reproductive and testicular dysfunction.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:In vivo Animal Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40565199, DOI: 10.3390/ijms26125735
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