Fungal Species: Agaricus blazei

Immunomodulatory Effects of Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms and Their Bioactive Immunoregulatory Products

Mushrooms have been used for health for thousands of years and contain special compounds that help boost the immune system and fight cancer. Scientists have identified several key active ingredients in mushrooms like polysaccharides and proteins that can activate immune cells and reduce tumors. Some mushroom products like lentinan from shiitake mushrooms have already been approved as cancer treatments in Japan. While most evidence comes from lab studies, ongoing research suggests mushroom-based medicines could become important therapeutic options.

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Mushroom-Based Supplements in Italy: Let’s Open Pandora’s Box

Researchers tested 19 mushroom supplement products sold in Italy and found serious quality problems. Many supplements didn’t actually contain the mushroom species listed on their labels. Some products also contained toxic substances or inconsistent amounts of beneficial compounds. The study highlights the need for better regulation and manufacturing standards to ensure these popular health products are safe and effective.

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Airlift bioreactor–based strategies for prolonged semi-continuous cultivation of edible Agaricomycetes

Scientists studied how to grow medicinal mushrooms in liquid bioreactors to produce health-beneficial compounds called glucans more efficiently. By testing different feeding rates in specially designed fermentation systems, they found that Trametes versicolor (turkey tail mushroom) grows best at a moderate feeding rate, producing substantial amounts of glucans—compounds known to support immune function and reduce blood sugar levels. This research shows that growing medicinal mushrooms in controlled bioreactors could be much more efficient and faster than traditional farming methods.

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Potential of Wormwood and Oak Bark-Based Supplement in Health Improvement of Nosema ceranae-Infected Honey Bees

This study tested a natural dietary supplement made from wormwood and oak bark on honey bees infected with Nosema ceranae, a parasite that weakens bee colonies. The supplement significantly improved bee survival and reduced parasite levels, regardless of when it was given. It also reduced harmful oxidative stress caused by the infection. While it didn’t boost immune genes as strongly as some other treatments, its plant-based nature and consistent effectiveness make it a promising tool for beekeepers.

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Anticancer Activity of Demethylincisterol A3 and Related Incisterol-Type Fungal Products

This review examines a special group of fungal compounds called incisterols, with focus on demethylincisterol A3 (DM-A3), which shows promise as a cancer-fighting agent. DM-A3 works through multiple mechanisms: it blocks cancer cell growth pathways, inhibits specific cancer-promoting proteins, and has anti-inflammatory effects. The compound has shown strong activity against various cancer types in laboratory and animal studies, making it a candidate for further development as a potential cancer therapy.

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Innovative applications of medicinal mushrooms in functional foods and nutraceuticals: a focus on health-boosting beverages

This comprehensive review explores how medicinal mushrooms are being transformed into health-boosting beverages like coffees, teas, and energy drinks. Mushrooms contain powerful compounds that support immunity, reduce inflammation, protect the liver, and enhance brain function. As consumers increasingly seek natural health alternatives, mushroom beverages are emerging as a major market trend, combining ancient wellness traditions with modern science to create convenient, tasty drinks that genuinely benefit health.

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Diversity and functions of fungal VOCs with special reference to the multiple bioactivities of the mushroom alcohol

Fungi release various volatile compounds (VOCs) that have different effects on organisms and the environment. The most notable fungal VOC is 1-octen-3-ol, also called mushroom alcohol, which gives mushrooms their distinctive smell. This compound can inhibit fungal growth, repel insects, and help control plant diseases, but at high concentrations it may be toxic to humans and trigger immune responses. Scientists use fruit flies as a model to study how these fungal compounds affect health.

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Isolation, purification, and structural elucidation of Stropharia rugosoannulata polysaccharides with hypolipidemic effect

Scientists extracted and studied a polysaccharide from wine cap mushrooms that shows promise for lowering cholesterol and protecting the liver. The compound, called SRF-3, has a complex sugar structure and works by binding to cholesterol and bile acids, helping the body eliminate them. Testing in laboratory conditions showed it has strong antioxidant properties and can reduce fat accumulation in liver cells, suggesting potential use as a natural supplement for managing high cholesterol.

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