Fungal Species:  Hericium erinaceus

Chromosome-Scale Genome and Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal Differential Regulation of Terpenoid Secondary Metabolites in Hericium coralloides

Researchers sequenced the complete genome of Hericium coralloides, an edible medicinal mushroom, at the chromosome level for the first time. They identified genes responsible for producing terpenoids, which are beneficial compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. The study found that these beneficial compounds are produced in higher amounts in the mushroom’s mycelium (root-like structure) compared to fruiting bodies, which could help optimize mushroom cultivation for medicinal use.

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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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Research progress of edible mushroom polysaccharide-metal trace element complexes

This research reviews how edible mushroom polysaccharides can be combined with essential metals like iron, selenium, and zinc to create health-boosting supplements. These complexes improve how our bodies absorb and use these important minerals, offering benefits like better immune function, antioxidant protection, and potential cancer-fighting properties. Scientists are studying different ways to make these complexes and testing their effectiveness for treating various health conditions.

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Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Powder on the Growth Performance, Immune Organ Weights, Cecal Microbiology, Serum Immunoglobulins, and Tibia Minerals of Broiler Chickens

Researchers tested whether powdered Ganoderma lucidum mushroom could replace antibiotic growth promoters in chicken farming. The study found that adding 0.2% mushroom powder to chicken feed improved weight gain and feed efficiency similar to antibiotics, while also promoting beneficial gut bacteria. The mushroom powder was safe and did not cause any disease, making it a promising natural alternative to antibiotics in poultry production.

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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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Immune regulatory functions of biologically active proteins from edible fungi

This research compared how proteins from 22 different edible mushrooms affect immune system cells called macrophages. The study found that all the mushroom proteins tested boosted immune function by making macrophages more active and productive. Interestingly, expensive rare mushrooms like cordyceps and ganoderma lucidum had stronger immune-boosting effects than common grocery store mushrooms like oyster and button mushrooms.

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Neuroprotective Effects of Mushroom Biomass Digestive Fractions and Gut Microbiota Metabolites in Microglial and Caenorhabditis elegans Models of Neurodegeneration

This study tested whether common and medicinal mushrooms could protect against Alzheimer’s disease by reducing harmful reactive oxygen species in brain cells. Researchers tested three mushroom types using digestive simulation to see what the body could absorb, plus key compounds made by gut bacteria. The mushroom extracts and certain bacterial metabolites successfully reduced cellular damage markers and improved behavior in disease-model worms, suggesting mushroom-rich diets may help prevent neurodegeneration.

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Formulation of functional noodles by adding Lentinus edodes mushroom powder: Physiochemical attributes, cellular mineral uptake and improved glycemic index

Researchers developed a healthier version of noodles by adding shiitake mushroom powder at 4% concentration. These mushroom noodles had better nutritional content with more protein and minerals like iron and calcium that the body could actually absorb. Most importantly, the mushroom noodles caused a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar compared to regular noodles, making them potentially beneficial for people managing diabetes.

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Biological Activities of Secondary Metabolites from the Edible-Medicinal Macrofungi

This comprehensive review examines over 270 bioactive compounds from edible and medicinal mushrooms, showing they have remarkable potential to treat various diseases. These mushroom-derived substances demonstrate effectiveness against cancer, diabetes, inflammation, and infections while having fewer side effects than conventional drugs. Families like reishi and shiitake mushrooms are particularly rich sources of these healing compounds. The research suggests mushrooms are valuable natural resources for developing new therapeutic treatments.

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Research Progress on the Mechanisms of Polysaccharides against Gastric Cancer

This review explores how natural polysaccharides from mushrooms, seaweed, plants, and traditional herbs can fight gastric cancer. These compounds work by triggering cancer cell death, stopping tumor growth, and boosting the body’s immune system. Unlike conventional chemotherapy drugs that cause serious side effects, these natural polysaccharides offer a safer alternative that can work alongside existing treatments to improve patient survival.

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