Research Topic: immunomodulation

Exploring the health benefits of Ganoderma: antimicrobial properties and mechanisms of action

Ganoderma is a medicinal mushroom that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years and is now being studied for its ability to fight infections. The mushroom contains special compounds like polysaccharides and triterpenoids that can kill harmful bacteria and fungi in multiple ways—by breaking down their cell walls, stopping them from reproducing, and boosting your immune system. Scientists have found that Ganoderma works against many dangerous bacteria including antibiotic-resistant strains, and it may offer a natural alternative to conventional antibiotics as antibiotic resistance becomes a major global health problem.

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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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Targeting SARS-CoV-2 with Chaga mushroom: An in silico study toward developing a natural antiviral compound

This study used computer modeling to investigate whether Chaga mushroom components can bind to and potentially block the coronavirus spike protein that SARS-CoV-2 uses to infect cells. The researchers found that three active compounds in Chaga—beta glycan, betulinic acid, and galactomannan—attached strongly to the virus’s binding sites in ways similar to known antiviral molecules. Beyond blocking viral entry, Chaga also has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties that could help prevent the dangerous cytokine storm associated with severe COVID-19.

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Research Progress on Nutritional Components, Functional Active Components, and Pharmacological Properties of Floccularia luteovirens

Floccularia luteovirens is a special mushroom from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau that has been used in traditional Tibetan medicine for centuries. It is extremely nutritious, containing as much protein as meat and numerous beneficial compounds. Scientific research shows it can help fight disease, boost immunity, and even preserve food naturally, making it promising for development as a health supplement and functional food.

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Pathogenic mucorales: Deciphering their cell wall polysaccharidome and immunostimulatory potential

Researchers studied three dangerous fungi that cause serious infections called mucormycosis. They examined the outer coating of these fungi, called the cell wall, which is made of sugar-like molecules called polysaccharides. When these fungi were exposed to human immune cells, they triggered strong inflammatory responses. Understanding these fungal components could help develop better treatments and vaccines for this life-threatening infection.

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Traditional uses, chemical components and pharmacological activities of the genus Ganoderma P. Karst.: a review

Ganoderma, a medicinal fungus used in traditional medicine for over 2000 years, contains many beneficial compounds including triterpenes and polysaccharides. Scientific research has confirmed its effectiveness in treating various conditions including cancer, diabetes, infections, and inflammation. The fungus works by boosting the immune system, reducing oxidative stress, and directly inhibiting disease-causing organisms. Modern cultivation methods have made Ganoderma products widely available as supplements and medicines worldwide.

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Immunomodulatory functions of fungal melanins in respiratory infections

Some dangerous fungi produce a dark pigment called melanin that acts like a cloak, protecting them from the body’s immune system. This review explains how melanin blocks multiple immune defenses, including suppressing warning signals to immune cells, preventing immune cells from engulfing and killing the fungi, and even absorbing harmful reactive molecules. Understanding these sneaky tactics could help scientists develop new treatments that strip away this protective cloak, making the fungi vulnerable to both the body’s natural defenses and antifungal drugs.

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Medicinal Plants for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: A Systematic Review of Antiemetic, Chemosensitizing, and Immunomodulatory Mechanisms

This review examines how medicinal plants can help manage nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. Over 22 plants including ginger, cannabis, mint, and turmeric work through multiple mechanisms like blocking serotonin pathways and reducing inflammation. Beyond reducing symptoms, these plants may also enhance chemotherapy effectiveness and boost immune function. The research suggests combining medicinal plants with standard cancer treatments could improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

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Structure and Bioactivity of Intracellular and Extracellular Polysaccharides of Trametes lactinea Mycelium

Researchers extracted and studied polysaccharides from Trametes lactinea mushroom mycelium grown in liquid culture. They found that these polysaccharides have strong antioxidant properties and can boost immune cell function, with the intracellular polysaccharide IP-3 showing the most promising results. These findings suggest that polysaccharides from mushroom fermentation could have potential health benefits and could be developed into medicinal supplements.

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