Scientists discovered that a sugar-based compound (polysaccharide) extracted from the matsutake mushroom has multiple beneficial health effects. This natural compound can fight harmful bacteria, help combat tumor growth, and boost the immune system. Impact on everyday life: – Could lead to new natural antibiotics for treating infections – May provide alternative or complementary cancer treatments – Demonstrates the value of traditional medicinal mushrooms in modern medicine – Offers potential for developing natural immune system boosters – Shows promise for creating new pharmaceutical products from natural sources