Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides as An Anti-cancer Agent

Anti-proliferative potential of extracellular beta-glucans isolated from Trametes hirsuta in carcinoma and leukemic cell lines

This study aims to extract, purify, and characterize water-soluble extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) from Trametes hirsuta and evaluate their antiproliferative effects. The anionic fraction (AF), a purified form extracellular polysaccharide consisting of glucose-based polymeric units, was isolated through chromatographic purification. The FTIR spectrum showed characteristic absorption peaks at 876.12 cm-1 and 826.89 cm-1 corresponding to β configuration and absorption peaks at 1019.63 cm-1, 1118.10 cm-1, and 1187.92 cm-1 corresponding to pyranose form of the glucosyl residue. 1H NMR signals at δ 4.90 ppm and δ 4.28 ppm were representative of anomeric protons, while 13C NMR spectrum signals around δ 97.85 ppm, δ 93.12 ppm, δ 77.79 ppm, δ 75.89 ppm, δ 71.51 ppm, and δ 62.28 ppm attributed to C-1, C-3, C-5, C-2, C-4, and C-6 carbon atom of EPS. The aforementioned results showed that the purified EPS was made of β-D (1 → 3) glucan moiety. The anti-proliferative activity of EPS was screened against four carcinoma cell lines, HepG2, HEp-2, HT-29 and PC3, and one leukemic cell line, MOLT-4, was used. Purified EPS demonstrated significantly greater cytotoxicity against HT-29, followed by MOLT-4, HepG2, and HEp2, compared to crude EPS. However, it was ineffective against PC-3, a prostate cancer cell line.

A review of polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum: Preparation methods, structural characteristics, bioactivities, structure-activity relationships and potential applications

Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum), commonly known as "fairy grass", is a saprophyte fungus belonging to the Polyporaceae family with a lengthy history of use as a food ingredient and traditional medicine in China. G. lucidum is abundant in diverse chemical compounds that encompass polysaccharides, alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, proteins, as well as amino acids. Among these, polysaccharides as the main active ingredients prepared from G. lucidum have exhibited a multitude of biological activities, such as anti-tumor effect, antioxidant activity, antidiabetic effect, anti-inflammatory effect, immune regulation and so forth. The main methods for extracting GLPs are hot water extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction and enzyme-assisted extraction. The research on GLPs poses challenges, especially in optimizing extraction and purification processes to enhance the yield and preserve the structural characteristics. Furthermore, it remains ambiguous whether the bioactivities of GLPs are closely related to their extraction methods and structural characteristics, necessitating further exploration and elucidation of the structure-activity relationships. This review comprehensively and systematically outlines an overview of the preparation methods, structural characteristics, bioactivities, structure-activity relationships and potential applications of GLPs. The review emphasizes their therapeutic potential and health functions, providing a reference for further exploitation and application in various fields of GLPs.

Structural characteization and anti-colorectal cancer activity of a fucogalactan purified from Ganoderma tsugae

Ganoderma tsugae, a traditional medicinal mushroom, exhibits anti-tumor properties; however, the effects of its polysaccharide on anti-colorectal cancer remain undetermined. Herein, a fucogalactan of Ganoderma tsugae (GTP-a2) was isolated and purified from its fruiting body. The molecular weight of GTP-a2 is 7.056 kDa, consisting of →6)-α-D-Galp-(1→ backbone with branches of α-L-Fucp-(1→, which is attached at C2. Subsequently, the anti-colorectal cancer activity and potential mechanism of GTP-a2 were investigated in azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS)-induced colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) mice. GTP-a2 reduced colorectal tumor numbers and suppressed tumor development. Metabolite analysis of the colon revealed that GTP-a2 altered cancer-related metabolites, notably increasing ophiobolin A level. Combined with proteomics and biochemical detection data revealed that GTP-a2 regulated the levels of Aldh1a3 through the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, GTP-a2 regulated immune function by inhibiting macrophage polarization to M1-like phenotype. These results suggest the potential application of GTP-a2 as a therapeutic agent for CAC.

Structure-function insights of natural Ganoderma polysaccharides: advances in biosynthesis and functional food applications

Ganoderma polysaccharides (GPs), derived from various species of the Ganoderma genus, exhibit diverse bioactivities, including immune modulation, anti-tumor effects, and gut microbiota regulation. These properties position GPs as dual-purpose agents for medicinal and functional food development. This review comprehensively explores the structural complexity of six key GPs and their specific mechanisms of action, such as TLR signaling in immune modulation, apoptosis pathways in anti-tumor activity, and their prebiotic effects on gut microbiota. Additionally, the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of GPs are highlighted to elucidate their biological efficacy. Advances in green extraction techniques, including ultrasonic-assisted and enzymatic methods, are discussed for their roles in enhancing yield and aligning with sustainable production principles. Furthermore, the review addresses biotechnological innovations in polysaccharide biosynthesis, improving production efficiency and making large-scale production feasible. These insights, combined with ongoing research into their bioactivity, provide a solid foundation for developing health-promoting functional food products that incorporate GPs. Furthermore, future research directions are suggested to optimize biosynthesis pathways and fully harness the health benefits of these polysaccharides.

Extraction, purification, structural characterization, biological activity, mechanism of action and application of polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum: A review

Ganoderma lucidum is a traditional tonic medicine in China, known as the "fairy grass" and "spiritual grass". It contains various chemical components, such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, alkaloids, nucleosides, sterols, and acid compounds, which have the effects of tonifying qi and calming the mind, stopping cough and asthma, and are used to treat restlessness, lung deficiency cough and asthma, fatigue and shortness of breath, and lack of appetite. Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs) are one of the main bioactive ingredients and are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and traditional medicine fields. They have shown good medicinal value in enhancing immunity, inhibiting tumor cell growth, delaying aging, lowering blood sugar, lowering blood lipids, protecting the heart, anti-radiation, anti-fatigue, and other aspects. This article reviews the research progress on the extraction and purification, structural characteristics, pharmacological activity, and mechanisms of GLPs, as well as their applications in industries such as medicine, food, and daily chemical products. The aim is to provide theoretical basis for the treatment of traditional Chinese medicine compound preparations and lay the foundation for the potential value development of Ganoderma lucidum products.

Network Pharmacology and Bioinformatics Study of Six Medicinal Food Homologous Plants Against Colorectal Cancer

Integrating network pharmacological analysis and bioinformatic techniques, this study systematically investigated the molecular mechanisms of six medicinal food homologous plants (Astragalus membranaceus, Ganoderma lucidum, Dioscorea opposite, Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, and Pueraria lobata) against colorectal cancer. Through screening the TCMSP database, 303 active compounds and 453 drug targets were identified. By integrating differential expression gene analysis with WGCNA on the GSE41258 dataset from the GEO database, 49 potential therapeutic targets were identified. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses demonstrated that these targets are primarily involved in drug response, fatty acid metabolism, and key cancer-related pathways. Cross-validation using three machine learning algorithms-LASSO regression, SVM-RFE, and Random Forest-pinpointed four critical target genes: CA1, CCND1, CXCL2, and EIF6. Further, CIBERSORT immune infiltration analysis revealed strong associations between these core genes and the tumor immune microenvironment in colorectal cancer patients, notably in modulating M0 macrophage infiltration and mast cell activity. Molecular docking analyses confirmed robust binding interactions between active compounds and core target proteins. This study systematically elucidated the molecular mechanisms of six medicinal food homologous plants against colorectal cancer, providing scientific evidence for their rational clinical application.

Evaluation of Two Different Treatments for Larch Logs as Substrates to Cultivate Ganoderma tsugae in the Forest

Larch wood, a prevalent cultivation medium for Ganoderma tsugae, has yet to be scrutinized concerning the differential impacts of sterilized and non-sterilized substrates on the growth and development of this fungus. Our present investigation sought to elucidate these effects in a forest-like environment. After larch wood segments were sun-dried, they were divided into two groups; one group was bagged and autoclaved, while the other group was bagged without any treatment. Subsequently, all segments were inoculated with the G. tsugae strain HLXL1 and ensconced under the canopy of a Pinus koraiensis forest, thereby approximating the conditions of natural growth. Wild G. tsugae was used as the control. Data on agronomic traits, production days, fruiting body yield, and effective constituent content were analyzed. The results indicated no significant differences between sterilized and non-sterilized substrates in terms of agronomic traits. However, the mineral content and bioactive compounds in G. tsugae fruiting bodies significantly differed across various growth stages. The outcomes were optimal for non-sterilized substrates, followed by sterilized substrates, while the wild strains were markedly less effective than the cultivated ones.

Advances in the study of polysaccharides from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge.: A review

Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. (AA), a traditional Chinese medicine, is used clinically to treat inflammation, diabetes, osteoporosis, and tumors. Polysaccharides are the most abundant components in AA, and have antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, anti-osteoporosis, and laxative effects. It is necessary to conduct a comprehensive analysis on the structure and pharmacological activity of the polysaccharides from AA (PAAs). This review systematically summarizes the structural characteristics of PAAs, including the monosaccharide compositions, molecular weights, and backbone structures. We discuss the relationship between the structure and pharmacological activities of PAAs. The chemical modification methods of PAAs, including zinc chelation, carboxymethylation, and sulfation, are then reviewed. This review may offer new insights for research on the PAAs and polysaccharides with similar structures.

Effects of JUNCAO Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide peptide on slaughter performance and intestinal health of Minxinan black rabbits

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of JUNCAO Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide peptide (JCGLPP) on slaughter performance and intestinal health of Minxinan black rabbits, which aimed to provide the basis for the application of JCGLPP in meat rabbits. One hundred male weaned Minxinan black rabbits of (33 ± 2) d [(initial body mass (655.65 ± 25.90) g] were randomly divided into four groups with five replicates per group and five rabbits per replicate. The diets were supplemented with 0 (control group), 50 (group I), 100 (group II) and 150 mg·kg-1 (group III) of JCGLPP, respectively. This experiment lasted for 56 days. The results are shown below: (1) The live weight before slaughter of groups I and III was significantly higher than that of control group (p < 0.05); The full net bore weight of group III was significantly higher than that of control group (p < 0.05). (2) pH value of group I was significantly higher than that of control group (p < 0.05); NH3-N content in experimental groups were significantly higher than that in control group(p < 0.05) while NH3-N content in group I was significantly higher than that in groups III and II (p < 0.05); The content of butyric acid in group II was significantly lower than that in control group (p < 0.05); There were no significant differences in acetic acid, isovaleric acid, isobutyric acid and propionic acid in experimental groups compared with control group (p > 0.05). (3) The Occludin content in duodenum, jejunum and ileum of groups I and II was significantly higher than that of control group (p < 0.05). (4) At the phylum level, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phylum in each group. At the genus level, norank_f__norank_o__Clostridia_UCG-014 in group II were significantly higher than those in control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, although dietary JCGLPP supplementation could not improve slaughter performance of Minxinan black rabbits, it could improve cecal fermentation parameters and intestinal flora structure and composition of Minxinan black rabbits to a certain extent. Our results revealed that 100 mg·kg-1 might be the optimal concentration obtained in dietary JCGLPP supplementation, which provided ideas and feasibility for drug combination.

Polypyrrole/iron-glycol chitosan nanozymes mediate M1 macrophages to enhance the X-ray-triggered photodynamic therapy for bladder cancer by promoting antitumor immunity

X-ray Photodynamic Therapy (XPDT) is an emerging, deeply penetrating, and non-invasive tumor treatment that stimulates robust antitumor immune responses. However, its efficacy is often limited by low therapeutic delivery and immunosuppressant within the tumor microenvironment. This challenge can potentially be addressed by utilizing X-ray responsive iron-glycol chitosan-polypyrrole nanozymes (GCS-I-PPy NZs), which activate M1 macrophages. These nanozymes increase tumor infiltration and enhance the macrophages' intrinsic immune response and their ability to stimulate adaptive immunity. Authors have designed biocompatible, photosensitizer-containing GCS-I-PPy NZs using oxidation/reduction reactions. These nanozymes were internalized by M1 macrophages to form RAW-GCS-I-PPy NZs. Authors' results demonstrated that these engineered macrophages effectively delivered the nanozymes with potentially high tumor accumulation. Within the tumor microenvironment, the accumulated GCS-I-PPy NZs underwent X-ray irradiation, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). This ROS augmentation significantly enhanced the therapeutic effect of XPDT and synergistically promoted T cell infiltration into the tumor. These findings suggest that nano-engineered M1 macrophages can effectively boost the immune effects of XPDT, providing a promising strategy for enhancing cancer immunotherapy. The ability of GCS-I-PPy NZs to mediate M1 macrophage activation and increase tumor infiltration highlights their potential in overcoming the limitations of current XPDT approaches and improving therapeutic outcomes in melanoma and other cancers.

New insights into signaling pathways of cancer prevention effects of polysaccharides from edible and medicinal mushrooms

BACKGROUND

Despite extensive efforts, empirical techniques have yielded limited progress in finding effective anticancer medications, with chemotherapy drugs often associated with drug resistance and serious side effects. Thus, there is a pressing need for novel agents with minimal adverse effects. Natural substances, widely used in treating various illnesses, including cancer, offer promising alternatives. Among these, mushrooms, rich in low molecular weight secondary metabolites, polysaccharides, and polysaccharide-protein complexes, have gained attention for their potential anticancer properties.

RESULTS

Mushroom polysaccharides have been found to impede oncogenesis and tumor metastasis by directly inhibiting tumor cell growth and indirectly enhancing immune system functions. These polysaccharides engage with numerous cell signaling pathways that influence cancer development and progression. They affect pathways that control cell survival, growth, and differentiation, and they also play a role in adjusting the tumor immune microenvironment.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the potential of mushroom polysaccharides as promising anticancer agents due to their ability to modulate cell signaling pathways crucial for cancer development. Understanding the mechanisms underlying their effects on these pathways is essential for harnessing their therapeutic potential and developing novel strategies for cancer treatment.

Methods for Overcoming Chemoresistance in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Keeping the Focus on Cancer Stem Cells, a Systematic Review

According to the "cancer stem cell" (CSCs) theory, tumors are a diverse and expanding group of malignant cells that originate from a small number of CSCs. Despite treatment, these cells can still become active and proliferate, which can result in distant metastasis and local recurrences. A new paradigm in cancer treatment involves targeting both CSCs and the cancer cells in a tumor. This review aims to examine the literature on methods published to overcome chemoresistance due to the presence of CSCs in head and neck cancers. The review was registered with PROSPERO (ID# CRD42024512809). After Pub Med, Scopus, and WoS database searches, 31 relevant articles on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were selected. Compounds that increased chemosensitivity by targeting CSCs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were divided into (1) natural products, (2) adjuvant molecules to traditional chemotherapy, and (3) CSCs targeting patient-specific fresh biopsies for functional precision medicine.

Triterpenes from antler-shaped fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum and their hepatoprotective activities

Seven previously undescribed triterpenes (1-7), as well as one triterpene (8) previously described as a synthetic product, were isolated from the antler-shaped fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum. Their structures were established based on comprehensive spectroscopy analysis. At a concentration of 10 μM, (24E)-3-oxo-15α-acetoxy-lanosta-7,9(11),24-trien-26-al (3) and (24R,25S)-3-oxo-lanosta-7,9(11)-dien-25-ethoxyl-24,26-diol (5) provided significant protection against acetaminophen-induced necrosis in human HepG2 liver cancer cells, and the cell survival rates were 69.7 and 76.1% respectively, similar to that of the positive control (glutathione, 72.1%). Based on the present results, these compounds could be potential hepatoprotective agents.

Improvement of Echinacea purpurea and Ganoderma lucidum Extracts with Cell Model on Influenza A/B Infection

Since 2019, COVID-19 has been raging around the world. Respiratory viral infectious diseases such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection are also prevalent, with influenza having the ability to cause seasonal pandemics. While vaccines and antiviral drugs are available to prevent and treat disease, herbal extracts would be another option. This study investigated the inhibitory effects of extracts of Echinacea purpurea (EP) and Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) and the advanced G. lucidum drink (AG) on influenza A/B viruses. To determine whether EP and G. lucidum extracts enhance cell immunity and thus prevent virus infection or act to directly suppress viruses, cell survival and hemagglutination (HA) assays were used in this study. Cells were treated with samples at different concentrations (each sample concentration was tested from the highest non-cytotoxic concentration) and incubated with influenza A/B for 24 h, with the results showing that both G. lucidum and EP extracts and mixtures exhibited the ability to enhance cell survival against viruses. In the HA assay, AG and EP extract showed good inhibitory effect on influenza A/B viruses. All of the samples demonstrated an improvement of the mitochondrial membrane potential and improved resistance to influenza A/B virus infection. EP and G. lucidum extracts at noncytotoxic concentrations increased cell viability, but only AG and EP extract directly decreased influenza virus titers. In conclusion, results indicate the ability of EP and G. lucidum extract to prevent viruses from entering cells by improving cell viability and mitochondrial dysfunction and EP extract showed direct inhibition on viruses and prevented viral infection at post-infection strategy.

Functional hydrogels for hepatocellular carcinoma: therapy, imaging, and in vitro model

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most common malignancies worldwide and is characterized by high rates of morbidity and mortality, posing a serious threat to human health. Interventional embolization therapy is the main treatment against middle- and late-stage liver cancer, but its efficacy is limited by the performance of embolism, hence the new embolic materials have provided hope to the inoperable patients. Especially, hydrogel materials with high embolization strength, appropriate viscosity, reliable security and multifunctionality are widely used as embolic materials, and can improve the efficacy of interventional therapy. In this review, we have described the status of research on hydrogels and challenges in the field of HCC therapy. First, various preparation methods of hydrogels through different cross-linking methods are introduced, then the functions of hydrogels related to HCC are summarized, including different HCC therapies, various imaging techniques, in vitro 3D models, and the shortcomings and prospects of the proposed applications are discussed in relation to HCC. We hope that this review is informative for readers interested in multifunctional hydrogels and will help researchers develop more novel embolic materials for interventional therapy of HCC.

Targeting CD8+ T cells with natural products for tumor therapy: Revealing insights into the mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Despite significant advances in cancer immunotherapy over the past decades, such as T cell-engaging chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), therapeutic failure resulting from various factors remains prevalent. Therefore, developing combinational immunotherapeutic strategies is of great significance for improving the clinical outcome of cancer immunotherapy. Natural products are substances that naturally exist in various living organisms with multiple pharmacological or biological activities, and some of them have been found to have anti-tumor potential. Notably, emerging evidences have suggested that several natural compounds may boost the anti-tumor effects through activating immune response of hosts, in which CD8+ T cells play a pivotal role.

METHODS

The data of this review come from PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials (https://clinicaltrials.gov/) with the keywords "CD8+ T cell", "anti-tumor", "immunity", "signal 1", "signal 2", "signal 3", "natural products", "T cell receptor (TCR)", "co-stimulation", "co-inhibition", "immune checkpoint", "inflammatory cytokine", "hesperidin", "ginsenoside", "quercetin", "curcumin", "apigenin", "dendrobium officinale polysaccharides (DOPS)", "luteolin", "shikonin", "licochalcone A", "erianin", "resveratrol", "procyanidin", "berberine", "usnic acid", "naringenin", "6-gingerol", "ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GL-PS)", "neem leaf glycoprotein (NLGP)", "paclitaxel", "source", "pharmacological activities", and "toxicity". These literatures were published between 1993 and 2023.

RESULTS

Natural products have considerable advantages as anti-tumor drugs based on the various species, wide distribution, low price, and few side effects. This review summarized the effects and mechanisms of some natural products that exhibit anti-tumor effects via targeting CD8+ T cells, mainly focused on the three signals that activate CD8+ T cells: TCR, co-stimulation, and inflammatory cytokines.

CONCLUSION

Clarifying the role and underlying mechanism of natural products in cancer immunotherapy may provide more options for combinational treatment strategies and benefit cancer therapy, to shed light on identifying potential natural compounds for improving the clinical outcome in cancer immunotherapy.

Current knowledge of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma

Therapeutic strategies are the hot-spot issues in treating patients with advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Mounting studies have proved that triggering ferroptosis is one of the promising targets for OSCC management. In this study, we performed a first attempt to collect the current evidence on the proposed roles of ferroptosis in OSCC through a comprehensive review. Based on clinical data from the relevant studies within this topic, we found that ferroptosis-associated tumor microenvironment, ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs), and ferroptosis-related lncRNAs exhibited a potent prognostic value for OSCC patients. Mechanistically, experimental data revealed that the proliferation and tumorigenesis of OSCC might be associated with the inhibition of cellular ferroptosis through the activation of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1), suppression of glutathione (GSH) and Period 1 (PER1) expression, and modulation of specific non-coding RNAs (i.e., miR-520d-5p, miR-34c-3p, and miR-125b-5p) and their targeted proteins. Several specific interventions (i.e., Quisinostat, Carnosic acid, hyperbaric oxygen, melatonin, aqueous-soluble sporoderm-removed G. lucidum spore powder, and disulfiram/copper complex) were found to dramatically induce ferroptosis cell death of OSCC via multiple mechanisms. This review highlighted the pivotal role of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis and prognosis of OSCC. Future anticancer therapeutic strategies targeting ferroptosis and its associated molecules might provide a new insight for OSCC treatment.

Semisynthesis and antitumor activity of endertiin B and related triterpenoids from Ganoderma lucidum

Ganoderma lucidum, a fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine, is known for its medicinal value attributed to its active components called Ganoderma triterpenoids (GTs). However, the limited isolation rate of these GTs has hindered their potential as promising drug candidates. Therefore, it is imperative to achieve large-scale preparation of GTs. In this study, four GTs were effectively synthesised from lanosterol. The antitumor activity of these GTs was evaluated in vivo. Endertiin B exhibited potent inhibitory activity against breast cancer cells (9.85 ± 0.91 μM and 12.12 ± 0.95 μM). Further investigations demonstrated that endertiin B significantly upregulated p21 and p27 and downregulated cyclinD1 expression, arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase and inducing apoptosis by decreasing BCL-2 and increasing BAX and BAK levels. Additionally, endertiin B was found to reduce the expression of proteins associated with the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. To summarize, endertiin B effectively inhibited cell proliferation by blocking the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis through the PI3K-AKT pathway.

A Phyto-mycotherapeutic Supplement, Namely Ganostile, as Effective Adjuvant in Brain Cancer Management: An In Vitro Study Using U251 Human Glioblastoma Cell Line

The current standard oncotherapy for glioblastoma is limited by several adverse side effects, leading to a short-term patient survival rate paralleled by a worsening quality of life (QoL). Recently, Complementary and Integrative Medicine's (CIM) innovative approaches have shown positive impacts in terms of better response to treatment, side effect reduction, and QoL improvement. In particular, promising potential in cancer therapy has been found in compounds coming from phyto- and mycotherapy. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the beneficial effects of a new phyto-mycotherapy supplement, named Ganostile, in the human glioblastoma cell line U251, in combination with chemotherapeutic agents, i.e., Cisplatin and a new platinum-based prodrug. Choosing a supplement dosage that mimicked oral supplementation in humans (about 1 g/day), through in vitro assays, microscopy, and cytometric analysis, it has emerged that the cells, after 48hr continuous exposure to Ganostile in combination with the chemical compounds, showed a higher mortality and a lower proliferation rate than the samples subjected to the different treatments administered individually. In conclusion, our data support the use of Ganostile in integrative oncology protocols as a promising adjuvant able to amplify conventional and new drug effects and also reducing resistance mechanisms often observed in brain tumors.

Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharide Supplementation Significantly Activates T-Cell-Mediated Antitumor Immunity and Enhances Anti-PD-1 Immunotherapy Efficacy in Colorectal Cancer

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP) is a prebiotic with immunomodulatory effects. However, the therapeutic potential of GLP in tumor immunotherapy has not been fully explored, especially in T cell-mediated antitumor immunity. In this study, we found that GLP significantly inhibited tumor growth and activated antitumor immunity in colorectal cancer (CRC). In the spleens and tumor tissues, the proportion of cytotoxic CD8+T cells and Th1 helper cells increased, while immunosuppressive Tregs decreased. Additionally, microbiota dysbiosis was alleviated by GLP, and short-chain fatty acid production was increased. Meanwhile, GLP decreased the ratio of kynurenine and tryptophan (Kyn/Trp) in the serum, which contributed to antitumor immunity of T cells. More importantly, the combination of GLP and the immune checkpoint inhibitor anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody further enhanced the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Thus, GLP as a prebiotic has the potential to be used in tumor immunotherapy.

Synergy of de-walled Ganoderma Lucidum spore powder (GLSP) on targeted therapy in advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutant: protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Osimertinib is regarded as a promising third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) for advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who developed T790M. However the adverse effects, primarily fatigue, remain an overwhelming deficiency of Osimertinib, hindering it from achieving adequate clinical efficacy for such NSCLC. Ganoderma lucidum has been used for thousands of years in China to combat fatigue, while Ganoderma Lucidum spores powder (GLSP) is the main active ingredient. The aim of this study is to investigate whether GLSP is sufficiently effective and safe in improving fatigue and synergizing with Osimertinib in non-squamous NSCLC patients with EGFR mutant.

METHOD/DESIGN

A total of 140 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either de-walled GSLP or placebo for a duration of 56 days. The primary outcome measure is the fatigue score associated with EGFR-TKI adverse reactions at week 8, evaluated by the Chinese version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire for Cancer Patients (QLQ-C30). Secondary outcomes include evaluation of treatment effectiveness, assessment of quality of life (QoL), and exploration of immune indicators and gut microbiota relationships. Following enrollment, visits are scheduled biweekly until week 12.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

China Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2300072786. Registrated on June 25, 2023.

The great potential of polysaccharides from natural resources in the treatment of asthma: A review

Despite significant progress in diagnosis and treatment, asthma remains a serious public health challenge. The conventional therapeutic drugs for asthma often have side effects and unsatisfactory clinical efficacy. Therefore, it is very urgent to develop new drugs to overcome the shortcomings of conventional drugs. Natural polysaccharides provide enormous resources for the development of drugs or health products, and they are receiving a lot of attention from scientists around the world due to their safety, effective anti-inflammatory and immune regulatory properties. Increasing evidence shows that polysaccharides have favorable biological activities in the respiratory disease, including asthma. This review provides an overview of primary literature on the recent advances of polysaccharides from natural resources in the treatment of asthma. The mechanisms and practicability of polysaccharides, including polysaccharides from plants, fungus, bacteria, alga, animals and others are reviewed. Finally, the further research of polysaccharides in the treatment of asthma are discussed. This review can provide a basis for further study of polysaccharides in the treatment of asthma and provides guidance for the development and clinical application of novel asthma treatment drugs.

Ganodermanontriol Suppresses the Progression of Lung Adenocarcinoma by Activating CES2 to Enhance the Metabolism of Mycophenolate Mofetil

New anti-lung cancer therapies are urgently required to improve clinical outcomes. Since ganodermanontriol (GDNT) has been identified as a potential antineoplastic agent, its role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is investigated in this study. Concretely, lung cancer cells were treated with GDNT and/or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), after which MTT assay, flow cytometry and Western blot were conducted. Following bioinformatics analysis, carboxylesterase 2 (CES2) was knocked down and rescue assays were carried out in vitro. Xenograft experiment was performed on mice, followed by drug administration, measurement of tumor growth and determination of CES2, IMPDH1 and IMPDH2 expressions. As a result, the viability of lung cancer cells was reduced by GDNT or MMF. GDNT enhanced the effects of MMF on suppressing viability, promoting apoptosis and inducing cell cycle arrest in lung cancer cells. GDNT up-regulated CES2 level, and strengthened the effects of MMF on down-regulating IMPDH1 and IMPDH2 levels in the cells. IMPDH1 and IMPDH2 were highly expressed in LUAD samples. CES2 was a potential target for GDNT. CES2 knockdown reversed the synergistic effect of GDNT and MMF against lung cancer in vitro. GDNT potentiated the role of MMF in inhibiting tumor growth and expressions of CES2 and IMPDH1/2 in lung cancer in vivo. Collectively, GDNT suppresses the progression of LUAD by activating CES2 to enhance the metabolism of MMF.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Ganoderma lucidum in Cancer

Triterpenoids, such as ganoderic acid, and polysaccharides, including β-D-glucans, α-D-glucans, and α-D-mannans, are the main secondary metabolites of the medicinal fungus Ganoderma lucidum. There is evidence of the effects of ganoderic acid in hematological malignancies, whose mechanisms involve the stimulation of immune response, the macrophage-like differentiation, the activation of MAP-K pathway, an IL3-dependent cytotoxic action, the induction of cytoprotective autophagy, and the induction of apoptosis. In fact, this compound has been tested in twenty-six different human cancer cell types and has shown an anti-proliferative activity, especially in leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma lines. Moreover, research clarified the capability of molecules from Ganoderma lucidum to induce mitochondrial damage in acute promyelocytic leukemia cells, without cytotoxic effects in normal mononuclear cells. Active lipids extracted from the spores of this fungus have also been shown to induce apoptosis mediated by downregulation of P-Akt and upregulation of caspases-3, -8, and -9. Among in vivo studies, a study in BALB/c mice injected with WEHI-3 leukemic cells suggested that treatment with Ganoderma lucidum promotes differentiation of T- and B-cell precursors, phagocytosis by PBMCs, and NK cell activity. Our review presents data revealing the possibility of employing Ganoderma lucidum in hematological malignancies and incorporating it into clinical practice.

Developing Ganoderma lucidum as a next-generation cell factory for food and nutraceuticals

Ganoderma lucidum holds a colossal reservoir of hydrolytic enzymes and therapeutic compounds and can be a sustainable source of proteins and bioactive compounds. Its metabolic versatility, propelled by its rich genome content, provides excellent biosynthetic machinery for innovation-driven pathway engineering. However, robust regulatory networks and low frequency of homologous recombination are critical bottlenecks that limit the development of molecular tools and precise genetic markers for biomanufacturing innovations in this organism. Modern synthetic biology provides tools that could help to accelerate precise multiple gene targeting and editing and untangling the biosynthetic machinery of G. lucidum. This review provides insight into molecular strategies to unwind the regulatory bottlenecks and transform G. lucidum into efficient cell factories for food and nutraceuticals.

A naturally derived small molecule compound suppresses tumor growth and metastasis in mice by relieving p53-dependent repression of CDK2/Rb signaling and the Snail-driven EMT

The tumor suppressor protein p53 is central to cancer biology, with its pathway reactivation emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy in oncology. This study introduced LZ22, a novel compound that selectively inhibits the growth, migration, and metastasis of tumor cells expressing wild-type p53, demonstrating ineffectiveness in cells devoid of p53 or those expressing mutant p53. LZ22's mechanism of action involves a high-affinity interaction with the histidine-96 pocket of the MDM2 protein. This interaction disrupted the MDM2-p53 binding, consequently stabilizing p53 by shielding it from proteasomal degradation. LZ22 impeded cell cycle progression and diminished cell proliferation by reinstating the p53-dependent suppression of the CDK2/Rb signaling pathway. Moreover, LZ22 alleviated the p53-dependent repression of Snail transcription factor expression and its consequent EMT, effectively reducing tumor cell migration and distal metastasis. Importantly, LZ22 administration in tumor-bearing mice did not manifest notable side effects. The findings position LZ22 as a structurally unique reactivator of p53, offering therapeutic promise for the management of human cancers with wild-type TP53.

Ganodermanontriol regulates tumor-associated M2 macrophage polarization in gastric cancer

AIM

We focused on investigating the role and mechanism of ganodermanontriol (GAN) in regulating the M2 polarization of tumor-associated macrophages in the gastric cancer microenvironment.

METHODS

M2 polarization of RAW264.7 macrophages was induced by IL-4 or co-culture with MFC, and the expression levels of M1 macrophage markers (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β) and M2 macrophage markers (IL-10, TGF-β, Arg-1) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbed assay (ELISA). The protein expression was assayed by Western-Blotting. For in vitro experiments, a tumor-bearing mouse model was established, with which the CD206 level was detected by histochemistry, and the binding mode between GAN and STAT6 was simulated through molecular dynamics.

RESULTS

Both IL-4 and MFC could induce the M2 polarization of macrophages. GAN could inhibit such polarization, which produced unobvious effects on M1 markers, but could suppress the levels of M2 markers. GAN could inhibit the phosphorylated expression of STAT6, and M2 macrophages treated by it had a weakened ability to promote malignant behavior of MFC. According to the results of in vitro experiments, GAN could inhibit tumor growth, suppress the tissue infiltration of CD206 cells, and inhibit the phosphorylated expression of STAT6.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that GAN can inhibit the M2 macrophage polarization in gastric cancer microenvironment, whose mechanism of action is associated with the regulation of STAT6 phosphorylation.

Potential therapeutic target for polysaccharide inhibition of colon cancer progression

In recent years, colon cancer has become one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, posing a great threat to human health. Studies have shown that natural polysaccharides have rich biological activities and medicinal value, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxidation, and immune-enhancing effects, especially with potential anti-colon cancer mechanisms. Natural polysaccharides can not only protect and enhance the homeostasis of the intestinal environment but also exert a direct inhibition effect on cancer cells, making it a promising strategy for treating colon cancer. Preliminary clinical experiments have demonstrated that oral administration of low and high doses of citrus pectin polysaccharides can reduce tumor volume in mice by 38% (p < 0.02) and 70% (p < 0.001), respectively. These results are encouraging. However, there are relatively few clinical studies on the effectiveness of polysaccharide therapy for colon cancer, and ensuring the effective bioavailability of polysaccharides in the body remains a challenge. In this article, we elucidate the impact of the physicochemical factors of polysaccharides on their anticancer effects and then reveal the anti-tumor effects and mechanisms of natural polysaccharides on colon cancer. Finally, we emphasize the challenges of using polysaccharides in the treatment of colon cancer and discuss future applications.

Thymus as Incontrovertible Target of Future Immune Modulatory Therapeutics

Thymus plays a crucial role in cellular immunity by acting as a warehouse for proliferating and differentiating lymphocytes. Thymic stromal cells educate T-cells to differentiate self from non-self antigens while nurse cells and thymoproteasome play a major role in the maturation and differentiation of T-cells. The thymic conditions dictate T-cells to cope with the risk of cancer development. A study was designed to demonstrate potential mechanisms behind the failure to eliminate tumors and impaired immune surveillance as well as the impact of delay in thymus regression on cancer and autoimmune disorders. Scientific literature from Pubmed; Scopus; WOS; JSTOR; National Library of Medicine Bethesda, Maryland; The New York Academy of Medicine; Library of Speech Rehabilitation, NY; St. Thomas' Hospital Library; The Wills Library of Guys Hospital; Repository of Kings College London; and Oxford Academic repository was explored for pathological, physiological, immunological and toxicological studies of thymus. Studies have shown that systemic chemotherapy may lead to micro inflammatory environment within thymus where conventionally and dynamically metastasized dormant cells seek refuge. The malfunctioning of the thymus and defective T and Treg cells, bypassing negative selection, contributes to autoimmune disorders, while AIRE and Fezf2 play significant roles in thymic epithelial cell solidity. Different vitamins, TCM, and live cell therapy are effective therapeutics. Vitamin A, C, D, and E, selenium and zinc, cinobufagin and dietary polysaccharides, and glandular extracts and live cell injections have strong potential to restore immune system function and thymus health. Moreover, the relationship between different ages/ stages of thymus and their corresponding T-cell mediated anti-tumor immune response needs further exploration.

Antiproliferative and Antibacterial Activity of Polyporoid Fungi from Veracruz, Mexico

Polyporoid fungi represent a vast source of bioactive compounds with potential pharmacological applications. The importance of polyporoid fungi in traditional Chinese medicine has led to an extensive use of some species of Ganoderma for promoting health and longevity because their consumption is associated with several bioactivities. Nevertheless, bioactivity of some other members of the Polyporaceae family has also been reported. This work reports the antiproliferative and antibacterial activity of crude extracts obtained from fruiting bodies of polypore fungi collected from the central region of Veracruz, Mexico, aimed at understanding the diversity of polypore species with potential pharmacological applications. 29 collections were identified macro- and microscopically in 19 species of polyporoid fungi, belonging to 13 genera. The antiproliferative activity screening of extracts against solid tumor cell lines (A549, SW1573, HeLa, HBL-100, T-47D, WiDr) allow us to identify four extracts with strong bioactivity [half-maximal growth inhibition (GI50) ≤ 50 μg/mL]. After this, a phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences from the ITS region obtained from bioactive specimens allowed us to identify three extracts as Pycnoporus sanguineus (GI50 = ≤ 10 μg/mL) and the fourth bioactive extract as Ganoderma oerstedii (GI50 = < 50 μg/mL. Likewise, extracts from P. sanguineus showed mild or moderate antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Xanthomonas albilineas. Bioprospecting studies of polyporoid fungi add to the knowledge of the diversity of macrofungi in Mexico and allow us to select one of the bioactive P. sanguineus to continue the pursuit of bioactive compounds through mycochemical studies.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antihyperglycemic Effects of New Metabiotics from Boletus edulis

The increasing incidence of diabetes has prompted the need for new treatment strategies, including natural products that reduce glycemia values. This work examined the in vitro and in vivo antihyperglycemic effects of new metabiotics derived from Boletus edulis extracts. The metabiotics were obtained from 100% B. edulis, and two other products, CARDIO and GLYCEMIC, from Anoom Laboratories SRL, which contain other microbial species related to B. edulis. Our in vitro investigations (simulations of the microbiota of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D)) demonstrated that B. edulis extracts modulate the microbiota, normalizing its pattern. The effects were further tested in vivo, employing a mouse model of T2D. The tested extracts decreased glycemia values compared to the control and modulated the microbiota. The metabiotics had positive effects on T2D in vitro and in vivo, suggesting their potential to alleviate diabetes-associated microbiota dysbiosis.

An Overview of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment After Radical Resection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

According to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) system, radical resection of early stage primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mainly includes liver transplantation, surgical resection, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which yield 5-year survival rates of about 70-79%, 41.3-69.5%, and 40-70%, respectively. The tumor-free 5-year rate for HCC patients undergoing radical resection only reach up to 13.7 months, so the prevention of recurrence after radical resection of HCC is very important for the prognosis of patients. The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) takes the approach of multitarget and overall-regulation to treat tumors, it can also independently present the "component-target-pathway" related to a particular disease, and its systematic and holistic characteristics can provide a personalized therapy based on symptoms of the patient by treating the patient as a whole. TCM as postoperative adjuvant therapy after radical resection of HCC in Barcelona Clinic liver cancer A or B stages, and the numerous clinical trials confirmed that the efficacy of TCM in the field of HCC has a significant effect, not only improving the prognosis and quality of life but also enhancing patient survival rate. However, with the characteristics of multi-target, multi-component, and multi-pathway, the specific mechanism of Chinese medicine in the treatment of diseases is still unclear. Because of the positive pharmacological activities of TCM in combating anti-tumors, the mechanism studies of TCM have demonstrated beneficial effects on the regulation of immune function, chronic inflammation, the proliferation and metastasis of liver cancer cells, autophagy, and cell signaling pathways related to liver cancer. Therefore, this article reviews the mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine in reducing the recurrence rate of HCC after radical resection.

Exploring the anti-cancer potential of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs) and their versatile role in enhancing drug delivery systems: a multifaceted approach to combat cancer

There has been a growing global interest in the potential health benefits of edible natural bioactive products in recent years. Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal mushroom, has gained attention for its decadent array of therapeutic and pharmaceutical compounds. Notably, G. lucidum exhibits significant anti-cancer effects against various cancer types. Polysaccharides, a prominent component in G. lucidum, are pivotal in conferring its diverse biological and medicinal properties. The primary focus of this study was to investigate the anti-cancer activities of G. lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs), with particular attention to their potential to mitigate chemotherapy-associated toxicity and enhance targeted drug delivery. Our findings reveal that GLPs exhibit anti-cancer effects through diverse mechanisms, including cytotoxicity, antioxidative properties, apoptosis induction, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and anti-proliferative effects. Furthermore, the potential of GLPs-based nanoparticles (NPs) as delivery vehicles for bioactive constituents was explored. These GLPs-based NPs are designed to target various cancer tissues, enhancing the biological activity of encapsulated compounds. As such, GLPs derived from G. lucidum represent a promising avenue for inhibiting cancer progression, minimizing chemotherapy-related side effects, and supporting their utilization in combination therapies as natural adjuncts.

The effect of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract on sensitizing prostate cancer cells to flutamide and docetaxel: an in vitro study

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide is the most widely used complementary therapy in cancer. The present study aims to investigate the possible interaction between Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide and Docetaxel (a chemotherapy drug) and the first-line medication for prostate cancer treatment (Flutamide) and sensitizing the cells to these treatments. The cytotoxic effects of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide in combination with Docetaxel and Flutamide on prostate cancer cells were investigated by the MTT test, Hoechst staining, and flow cytometry. In addition, the expression of genes related to apoptosis, angiogenesis, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition pathway (EMT), and prostate cancer biomarkers by Real-Time PCR was investigated. The results demonstrated that IC50 values for Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (30 μM and 20 μM), Docetaxel (10 μM and 5 μM), and Flutamide (20 μM and 12 μM) with MTT were confirmed by flow cytometry in a dose and time-dependent manner. Regarding the high efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide in combination with Flutamide and Docetaxel, 10 μM and 5 μM Flutamide were used instead of 20 μM and 12 μM and 5 μM and 2 μM Docetaxel was used instead of 10 μM and 5 μM in PC3 and LNCap, respectively. Moreover, for the first time, it was shown that Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide alone and in combination with Docetaxel and Flutamide significantly augmented apoptosis, reduced cell migration and colonization, and downregulated expression of KLK2 and EMT pathway genes in both PC3 and LNCap cell line (P < 0.01). Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide synergistically increased the effect of Docetaxel and Flutamide and increased the sensitivity of the prostate cancer cell lines to these drugs. Therefore, it may provide a new therapeutic strategy against prostate cancer.

Synergistic apoptotic effects of ethanolic extracts of ginger and Ganoderma lucidum in a colorectal cancer cell line

Current conventional therapy for colorectal cancer includes surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, all of which produce side effects. Herbal medicine can control the side effects of conventional treatments. We investigated the synergistic effect of a mixture of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Ginger) and Ganoderma lucidum extracts on colorectal cancer cell apoptosis in vitro. We prepared ethanolic extracts of ginger (GEE) and G. lucidum (GLEE). Cytotoxicity was evaluated using MTT assay and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of each extract was calculated. The effect of these extracts on apoptosis in cancer cells was assessed using flow cytometry; Bax, Bcl2 and caspase-3 gene expression was evaluated using real-time PCR. GEE and GLEE decreased CT-26 cell viability significantly in a dose-dependent manner; however, the combined application of GEE + GLEE was most effective. Bax:Bcl-2 gene expression ratio, caspase-3 gene expression and the number of apoptotic cells were increased significantly in CT-26 cells treated at the IC50 level of each compound, especially in the GEE + GLEE treatment group. Combined ginger and Ganoderma lucidum extracts exhibited synergistic antiproliferative and apoptotic effects on colorectal cancer cells.

Lanostane triterpenoids with anti-proliferative and PTP1B/α-glucosidase inhibitory activities from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma calidophilum

Twelve previously undescribed and four known lanostane triterpenoids were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma calidophilum. The structures of undescribed compounds, ganodecalones H-S (1-12), were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis as well as ECD and NMR calculations. Compound 4 showed significant inhibitory activity against human leukaemia cell line K562, gastric cancer cell line SGC-7901, and cervical cancer cell line HeLa with IC50 values of 13.10 ± 0.19, 17.26 ± 4.75, and 4.36 ± 0.58 μM, respectively. Compound 16 exhibited inhibitory potency against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and α-glucosidase with IC50 values of 30.2 ± 0.13 μM and 120.6 ± 0.14 μM, respectively. The binding sites and interactions of 16 with PTP1B and α-glucosidase were revealed using molecular docking simulations.

Natural Bio-Compounds from Ganoderma lucidum and Their Beneficial Biological Actions for Anticancer Application: A Review

Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) has been known for many centuries in Asian countries under different names, varying depending on the country. The objective of this review is to investigate the scientific research on the natural active bio-compounds in extracts obtained from G. lucidum with significant biological actions in the treatment of cancer. This review presents the classes of bio-compounds existing in G. lucidum that have been reported over time in the main databases and have shown important biological actions in the treatment of cancer. The results highlight the fact that G. lucidum possesses important bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, sterols, proteins, nucleotides, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, which have been demonstrated to exhibit multiple anticancer effects, namely immunomodulatory, anti-proliferative, cytotoxic, and antioxidant action. The potential health benefits of G. lucidum are systematized based on biological actions. The findings present evidence regarding the lack of certainty about the effects of G. lucidum bio-compounds in treating different forms of cancer, which may be due to the use of different types of Ganoderma formulations, differences in the study populations, or due to drug-disease interactions. In the future, larger clinical trials are needed to clarify the potential benefits of pharmaceutical preparations of G. lucidum, standardized by the known active components in the prevention and treatment of cancer.

One-Pot Assembly of the Highly Branched Tetradecasaccharide from Ganoderma lucidum Glycan GLSWA-1 with Immune-Enhancing Activities

The highly branched tetradecasaccharide repeating unit and shorter sequences of GLSWA-1 with immune-enhancing activities from Ganoderma lucidum have been prepared via a one-pot glycan assembly strategy. The synthetic route features (1) orthogonal one-pot glycosylation on the basis of PVB glycosylation to streamline glycan synthesis avoiding such issues as aglycone transfer, (2) one-pot assembly of oligosaccharides with up to four different glycosyl linkages, and (3) modular and convergent [4+5+5] one-pot assembly of the highly branched tetradecasaccharide.

Isolation and characterization of dihydropyran-ring containing meroterpenoids from Ganoderma lucidum and their inhibitory activity against renal fibrosis-related protein expression

The Ganoderma lucidum mushroom, which has been used as a traditional medicine in China for more than 2000 years, is a source of many interesting natural product. In this study, the five undescribed minor meroterpenoids baoslingzhines F-J (1-5), containing a dihydropyran moiety, were isolated as racemic mixtures from the fruiting bodies of G. lucidum. These substances were structurally and stereochemically characterized by using spectroscopic and computational methods. Chiral HPLC was employed to separate the (+)- and (-)-antipodes. A survey of the activities against kidney fibrosis showed that both enantiomers of baoslingzhines F-J inhibit expression of renal fibrosis-related proteins, including fibronectin, collagen I and ɑ-SMA in TGF-β1-induced rat kidney proximal tubular cells.

Antimetastatic effect of fucoidan against non-small cell lung cancer by suppressing non-receptor tyrosine kinase and extracellular signal-related kinase pathway

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Fucoidan, a polysaccharide content in brown algae, has been reported to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. The present study aimed to investigate the suppression effects of fucoidan on A549 non-small cell lung cancer cells migration.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The anti-migratory activity of fucoidan in A549 cells was examined by wound healing assay and phalloidin-rhodamine staining in response to fucoidan (0-100 µg/mL) treatment for 48 h. Western blot analysis was performed to clarify the protein expressions relevant to migratory activity.

RESULTS

Fucoidan (25-100 µg/mL) significantly suppressed A549 cells migration together with reduced the intensity of phalloidin-rhodamine which detect filopodia and lamellipodia protrusions at 48 h of treatment. The protein expression indicated that fucoidan significantly suppressed the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), Src, and extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK). In addition, the phosphorylation of p38 in A549 cells was found to be increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data conclude that fucoidan exhibits anti-migratory activities against lung cancer A549 cells mediated by inhibiting ERK1/2 and FAK-Src pathway.

Mapping the metabolic characteristics of probiotic-fermented Ganoderma lucidum and its protective mechanism against Cd-induced nephrotoxicity

An animal model of Cd-induced kidney damage was designed to investigate the nephroprotective potential of the probiotic-fermented Ganoderma lucidum (FGL) via metabonomic analysis. The results showed that FGL enhanced sugar and amino acid metabolism. The interaction of Ganoderma lucidum (GL) and probiotics efficiently elevated short-chain fatty acid production following gut microbiota fermentation. The current data revealed that the FGL intervention alleviated Cd-induced nephrotoxicity via elevating the activity of antioxidant enzymes and decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory and apoptotic factors. Based on transcriptome analysis, FGL intervention mediated renal dysfunction via decreasing the expressions of Nos2, Tnfsf14, S100a9, Map3k6 and Hk3, which were involved in oxidative stress, inflammatory response and the apoptosis process. The current study highlights a new approach for achieving positive nephroprotection via natural product intervention.

Characterization and anti-aging effects of polysaccharide from Gomphus clavatus Gray

In this study, a highly branched polysaccharide (GPF, 112.0 kDa) was isolated and purified from Gomphus clavatus Gray fruiting bodies. GPF was primarily composed of mannose, galactose, arabinose, xylose, and glucose at a molar ratio of 3.2:1.9:1.6:1.2:1.0. GPF was a highly branched heteropolysaccharide composed of 13 glucosidic bonds, with a degree of branching (DB) of 48.85 %. GPF exhibited anti-aging activity in vivo, significantly increased antioxidant enzymes activities (SOD, CAT and GSH-Px), improved total antioxidant capability (T-AOC) and decreased MDA level in the serum and brain of d-Gal induced aging mice. Behavioral experiments showed that GPF effectively improved learning and memory deficits in d-Gal induced aging mice. Mechanistic studies indicated that GPF could activate AMPK by increasing AMPK phosphorylation and upregulating SIRT1 and PGC-1α expression. These findings suggest that GPF has significant potential as a natural candidate to slow down aging and prevent aging-related diseases.

Dietary Plant Polysaccharides for Cancer Prevention: Role of Immune Cells and Gut Microbiota, Challenges and Perspectives

Dietary plant polysaccharides, one of the main sources of natural polysaccharides, possess significant cancer prevention activity and potential development value in the food and medicine fields. The anti-tumor mechanisms of plant polysaccharides are mainly elaborated from three perspectives: enhancing immunoregulation, inhibiting tumor cell growth and inhibiting tumor cell invasion and metastasis. The immune system plays a key role in cancer progression, and immunomodulation is considered a significant pathway for cancer prevention or treatment. Although much progress has been made in revealing the relationship between the cancer prevention activity of polysaccharides and immunoregulation, huge challenges are still met in the research and development of polysaccharides. Results suggest that certain polysaccharide types and glycosidic linkage forms significantly affect the biological activity of polysaccharides in immunoregulation. At present, the in vitro anti-tumor effects and immunoregulation of dietary polysaccharides are widely reported in articles; however, the anti-tumor effects and in vivo immunoregulation of dietary polysaccharides are still deserving of further investigation. In this paper, aspects of the mechanisms behind dietary polysaccharides' cancer prevention activity achieved through immunoregulation, the role of immune cells in cancer progression, the role of the mediatory relationship between the gut microbiota and dietary polysaccharides in immunoregulation and cancer prevention are systematically summarized, with the aim of encouraging future research on the use of dietary polysaccharides for cancer prevention.

Network pharmacology and bioinformatics were used to construct a prognostic model and immunoassay of core target genes in the combination of quercetin and kaempferol in the treatment of colorectal cancer

Purpose: CRC is a malignant tumor seriously threatening human health. Quercetin and kaempferol are representative components of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Previous studies have shown that both quercetin and kaempferol have antitumor pharmacological effects, nevertheless, the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. To explore the synergy and mechanism of quercetin and kaempferol in colorectal cancer. Methods: In this study, network pharmacology, and bioinformatics are used to obtain the intersection of drug targets and disease genes. Training gene sets were acquired from the TCGA database, acquired prognostic-related genes by univariate Cox, multivariate Cox, and Lasso-Cox regression models, and validated in the GEO dataset. We also made predictions of the immune function of the samples and used molecular docking to map a model for binding two components to prognostic genes. Results: Through Lasso-Cox regression analysis, we obtained three models of drug target genes. This model predicts the combined role of quercetin and kaempferol in the treatment and prognosis of CRC. Prognostic genes are correlated with immune checkpoints and immune infiltration and play an adjuvant role in the immunotherapy of CRC. Conclusion: Core genes are regulated by quercetin and kaempferol to improve the patient's immune system and thus assist in the treatment of CRC.

Significance of culture period on the physiochemistry and anti-cancer potentials of polysaccharides from mycelia of Ganoderma lucidum

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GPS) have many functions. Polysaccharides are abundant in G. lucidum mycelia, but it is unclear whether the production and chemical characteristics of polysaccharides are related to the liquid cultural periods of mycelia. This study harvests G. lucidum mycelia at different cultural stages and isolates GPS and sulfated polysaccharides (GSPS) separately to determine an optimum cultural duration. After 42 and 49 days of mycelia are found to be the best times to harvest GPS and GSPS. Characteristic studies show that glucose and galactose are the main sugars in GPS and GSPS. The molecular weights of various GPS and GSPS are mainly distributed at >1000 kDa and from 101 to 1000 kDa. The sulfate content of GSPS at Day 49 is greater than that at Day 7. GPS and GSPS at 49 days exhibits a good anticancer effect but does not affect normal fibroblasts. GPS and GSPS that is isolated on day 49 inhibits lung cancer by suppressing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and transforming growth factor beta receptor (TGFβR)-mediated signaling networks. These results show that the mycelia of G. lucidum that are cultured for 49 days exhibit the best biological characteristics.

Toxicogenic effects of the mushroom Ganoderma lucidum on human liver and kidney tumor cells and peripheral blood lymphocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst., a bioactive mushroom with medicinal properties, is known to exert immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, hypoglycemic, and hepatoprotective effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, the effects of the G. lucidum fruiting body dry extract (GLE) on human liver (HepG2/C3A) and kidney (786-O) tumor cells and peripheral blood lymphocytes were evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MTT-based cytotoxicity, trypan blue-based cell viability, comet, and cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assays were performed, and the production of reactive oxygen species was evaluated in vitro.

RESULTS

GLE was toxic to the tumor cells, decreasing their viability by increasing their production of reactive oxygen species and inducing damage to their DNA. By contrast, only high concentrations of GLE were toxic to lymphocytes and decreased their viability, whereas low concentrations increased lymphocyte viability. Moreover, primary DNA damage was induced by GLE only at the highest concentration tested.

CONCLUSIONS

G. lucidum shows potential antitumor effects against cancerous kidney and liver cells, exhibiting cytotoxic and genotoxic activity at low concentrations, whereas the same effects in lymphocytes are mediated only at high concentrations. This mushroom has the potential to be biotechnologically developed into a therapeutic agent for diseases, such as cancer.

The role of the ferroptosis pathway in the regulation of polysaccharides for human health: A review

Polysaccharides are natural polymers with ketone or aldehyde groups that are widely found in plants, animals, and microorganisms. They exhibit various biological activities and have potential development value in the food and pharmaceutical fields. Ferroptosis is a recently discovered modality that modulates cell death and has attracted considerable attention because it is considered to be involved in many pathophysiological processes. The inhibition of ferroptosis by reducing intracellular iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation may provide potential protective strategies against related pathologies. Ferroptosis is also involved in the physiological activities of polysaccharides, and its regulatory mechanism varies according to different physiological activities. However, a systematic summary on the involvement of ferroptosis in the physiological activities of polysaccharides is currently lacking. Therefore, this review systematically summarized the relationship between the physiological activities of polysaccharides and ferroptosis and focused on the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis, with respect to the anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities of all polysaccharides. The primary objective was to find new polysaccharide-related therapeutic breakthroughs for related diseases and to provide a reference for further research on polysaccharides-based therapeutics.

Potential Anti-Rheumatoid Arthritis Activities and Mechanisms of Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic and autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, autoimmune dysfunction, and cartilage and bone destruction. In this review, we summarized the available reports on the protective effects of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLP) on RA in terms of anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-angiogenic and osteoprotective effects. Firstly, GLP inhibits RA synovial fibroblast (RASF) proliferation and migration, modulates pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and reduces synovial inflammation. Secondly, GLP regulates the proliferation and differentiation of antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells, inhibits phagocytosis by mononuclear macrophages and nature killer (NK) cells and regulates the ratio of M1, M2 and related inflammatory cytokines. In addition, GLP produced activities in balancing humoral and cellular immunity, such as regulating immunoglobulin production, modulating T and B lymphocyte proliferative responses and cytokine release, exhibiting immunomodulatory effects. Thirdly, GLP inhibits angiogenesis through the direct inhibition of vascular endothelial cell proliferation and induction of cell death and the indirect inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production in the cells. Finally, GLP can inhibit the production of matrix metalloproteinases and promote osteoblast formation, exerting protective effects on bone and articular cartilage. It is suggested that GLP may be a promising agent for the treatment of RA.

Inhibitory effect of polysaccharides extracted from Changbai Mountain Ganoderma lucidum on periodontal inflammation

As the main bioactive substance of Ganoderma lucidum, Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP) has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and other biological activities. Studies have shown that GLP can regulate the expression of multiple inflammatory cytokines in different inflammatory models and diseases as part of the anti-infection immune response. We extracted crude Changbai Mountain Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (CGLPs), analyzed their physical and chemical properties, and then applied them to the periodontitis model to verify whether they have an inhibitory effect on mouse periodontitis. CGLP was determined to be a heteropolysaccharide with dextran as the main component. Its molecular weight was 17.40 kDa. In vivo experiments in mice showed that CGLP can inhibit the alveolar bone loss and reduced inflammation caused of periodontitis by regulating the expression of the inflammatory factors IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10 in a concentration-dependent manner.