immunomodulation – Page 8

A concise review of mushrooms antiviral and immunomodulatory properties that may combat against COVID-19

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This review explores how medicinal mushrooms have compounds that could help fight COVID-19 and boost immune function. Various mushroom species contain natural substances like beta-glucans and polysaccharides that have shown antiviral properties and can strengthen the body’s immune response. The research suggests these mushrooms could potentially be used alongside conventional treatments to help patients recover from COVID-19 more effectively.

Quest for Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antiviral therapeutics: in-silico and in-vitro analysis of edible mushroom- Cordyceps militaris

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Researchers tested an edible mushroom called Cordyceps militaris to see if it could fight SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Using computer modeling and laboratory experiments, they found that a compound in the mushroom called cordycepin strongly attached to the virus’s spike protein and reduced viral numbers by about 50% in cell cultures. The study supports traditional uses of this mushroom and suggests it could be helpful in managing COVID-19 as the disease becomes endemic.

Mitigation of radiation-induced esophageal fibrosis by macrophage-targeted phosphatidylserine-containing liposomes with partial PEGylation

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Radiation therapy used to treat esophageal cancer often causes scarring and tissue damage that makes swallowing difficult. Researchers developed special fatty particles called PEGylated phosphatidylserine-containing liposomes that can reduce this scarring by calming down immune cells called macrophages. In studies using animal models and laboratory tests, these particles successfully reduced fibrosis, preserved normal tissue structure, and promoted muscle healing, offering hope for better management of radiation therapy side effects.

Immunomodulatory natural polysaccharide-based nanoparticles for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

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Scientists are developing tiny particles made from natural sugar-based compounds that can deliver medicine to the brain while reducing inflammation caused by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. These nanoparticles are special because they can cross the protective barrier surrounding the brain and carry therapeutic compounds directly to where they’re needed. The natural polysaccharides used to make these particles have built-in anti-inflammatory properties, making them safer and more effective than traditional approaches. This innovative technology shows promise for treating currently difficult-to-manage brain diseases.

Things you wanted to know about fungal extracellular vesicles (but were afraid to ask)

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Fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny packages released by fungal cells that play important roles in fungal infections and how our immune system responds to them. Scientists have confirmed these EVs are real biological structures, not laboratory artifacts, and discovered they are produced by many different fungal species. Interestingly, these EVs can have opposite effects on the immune system depending on the fungus involved—sometimes helping our bodies fight infection and sometimes making infections worse, making them both potential vaccines and virulence factors.

Immunomodulatory activity of Pleurotus pulmonarius crude extract to human monocyte against Cryptococcus neoformans

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This research shows that an extract from the Phoenix oyster mushroom (Pleurotus pulmonarius) can boost the body’s immune cells to fight dangerous fungal infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. When immune cells are pre-exposed to this mushroom extract and then encounter the fungus, they become more effective at killing it through increased production of immune-signaling molecules and reactive oxygen species. This natural supplement approach offers a promising alternative to traditional antifungal drugs, which often have significant side effects and can lead to drug resistance.

Bachu Mushroom Polysaccharide Alleviates Colonic Injury by Modulating the Gut Microbiota

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Researchers studied a polysaccharide extracted from Bachu mushrooms, a traditional medicinal fungus used in China, to treat inflammatory bowel disease in mice. The polysaccharide reduced inflammation by decreasing harmful inflammatory proteins and increasing beneficial bacteria in the gut. Treatment significantly improved disease symptoms and protected the colon from damage caused by chemical-induced colitis, suggesting this mushroom extract could potentially be developed into a natural treatment for inflammatory bowel disease.

Fungal β-Glucans: Biological Properties, Immunomodulatory Effects, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

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β-glucans are natural substances found in yeast and fungi that help boost the immune system and fight cancer. They can be measured in blood to diagnose serious fungal infections and may help prevent common illnesses like colds and respiratory infections. Recent research suggests they could be useful additions to vaccines and may help patients recovering from COVID-19.

Bibliometric, taxonomic, and medicinal perspectives of Ganoderma neo-japonicum Imazeki: A mini review

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Ganoderma neo-japonicum, known as purple Lingzhi, is a mushroom traditionally used by indigenous communities in Malaysia and other Asian countries to treat various health conditions. This review examines 36 scientific studies published between 1991 and 2021, showing that the mushroom contains special compounds that can fight cancer cells, lower blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. While laboratory studies show promising results, the mushroom still needs more clinical testing in humans before it can be widely used as a medicine.

Polysacharide of Agaricus blazei gel mitigates bone necrosis in model of the jaws related to bisphosphonate via Wnt signaling

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This study tested whether a gel made from Agaricus blazei mushroom could help repair jaw bone damage caused by bisphosphonate medications (used to treat bone loss). Using a rat model, researchers found that the mushroom gel significantly improved bone healing by activating biological pathways that promote bone-forming cell growth and activity. The treatment increased the number of living bone cells, improved bone quality, and reduced bone death and tissue damage. These promising results suggest the mushroom extract could become a helpful treatment to prevent or manage jawbone damage in patients taking bisphosphonate medications.

Research Topic: immunomodulation