A comprehensive screening shows that ergothioneine is the most abundant antioxidant in the wild macrofungus Phylloporia ribis Ryvarden

The polar and non-polar extracts from the authenticated wild mushroom Phylloporia ribis were separated by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) and by reverse phase (RP)-HPLC, respectively. A split valve separated the eluents into two fractions for free-radical scavenging analysis and for structural identification. Forty-six compounds showed scavenging activity of the stable-free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The structures of 8 antioxidants (inosine, caffeic acid, ergothioneine, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, adenosine, 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, apigenin, and naringenin) are characterized by Mass Spectrometer. Among them, ergothioneine was the most abundant (>65%) and most active antioxidant in P. ribis.

Dissipation and Migration of Pyrethroids in Auricularia polytricha Mont. from Cultivation to Postharvest Processing and Dietary Risk

In order to ensure raw consumption safety the dissipation behavior, migration, postharvest processing, and dietary risk assessment of five pyrethroids in mushroom (Auricularia polytricha Mont.) cultivated under Chinese greenhouse-field conditions. Half-lives (t1/2) of pyrethroids in fruiting body and substrate samples were 3.10-5.26 and 17.46-40.06 d, respectively. Fenpropathrin dissipated rapidly in fruiting bodies (t1/2 3.10 d); bifenthrin had the longest t1/2. At harvest, pyrethroid residues in A. polytricha (except fenpropathrin) were above the respective maximum residue limits (MRLs). Some migration of lambda-cyhalothrin was observed in the substrate-fruit body system. In postharvest-processing, sun-drying and soaking reduced pyrethroid residues by 25-83%. We therefore recommend that consumers soak these mushrooms in 0.5% NaHCO₃ at 50 °C for 90 min. Pyrethroids exhibit a particularly low PF value of 0.08-0.13%, resulting in a negligible exposure risk upon mushroom consumption. This study provides guidance for the safe application of pyrethroids to edible fungi, and for the establishment of MRLs in mushrooms to reduce pesticide exposure in humans.

Immobilization of Lipase Inhibitor on the Biopolymers from Agaricus bisporus Cell Walls

One of the methods for curing obesity is the inclusion of some substances with the antilipase activity in the diet and thus reducing the uptake of fat components from food. The aim of this research is to provide a stabilized form of lipase inhibitor by immobilization of enzyme on the biopolymers from Agaricus bisporus cell walls. The phenolic compounds extracted from the rapeseed were considered as the lipase inhibitor. The activity of the inhibitor was considerably reduced in the gastric juice, as well as at temperatures above 37 °C and during its storage, which determined the suitability of the inhibitor for stabilization on the matrix. The effectiveness of the phenolic compound stabilization was investigated by means of immobilization on the biopolymers from Agaricus bisporus cell wall matrix. The biopolymers used were β-glucan, chitin, melanin and proteins. A number of samples, which differed both in the content of the inhibitor (from 1 to 16%) and in the ratio of biopolymers in the matrix composition, was obtained. The conditions of immobilization (temperature, duration of the process) were also varied. The expediency of obtaining the sample with the inhibitor content of 12% and matrix containing 47.9% of glucan, 18.8% of chitin, 18.8% of melanin and 11.1% of proteins was shown. The best immobilization was carried out at 20-25 °C for 30 min. Thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy data confirmed that immobilization of the lipase inhibitor on the matrix was due to the hydrogen bonds. The immobilized inhibitor had higher pH stability and higher thermal stability than the original one. The remaining activity of the immobilized inhibitor was higher than the original one after incubation in the gastric acid and bile. The immobilized inhibitor was characterized by a low loss of activity after 12 months of storage.

Glucans and Cancer: Comparison of Commercially Available β-glucans - Part IV

BACKGROUND/AIM

β-Glucans are well-established immunomodulators with strong effects across all immune reactions. Due to the extensive amount of studies, glucans are steadily progressing from a non-specific immunomodulator to a licensed drug. However, direct comparisons of higher numbers of different glucans are rare.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we used 16 different glucans isolated from yeasts, mushroom, algae, and oat and compared their effects on phagocytosis, IL-2 production, antibody secretion, and inhibition of three experimental cancer models.

RESULTS

Our results showed significant differences among tested glucans, showing that despite the fact that glucans in general have strong stimulating effects on most aspects of the immune system, it is necessary to choose the right glucan.

CONCLUSION

Based on our studies, we can conclude that highly purified and active glucans have significant pleiotropic effects.

The complete mitochondrial genome of the Basidiomycete fungus Pleurotus cornucopiae (Paulet) Rolland

Pleurotus cornucopiae is a commercial edible and medicinal fungus. Herein, we determined and analyzed its complete mitochondrial genome. The mitogenome length was 72,134 bp with a GC content of 26.7%, contained 14 conserved protein coding genes, two rRNA genes (rnl and rns), ribosomal protein gene rps3 and 24 tRNA genes. Pleurotus cornucopiae has a similar gene content and gene order of the mitogenome as P. ostreatus and P. eryngii. A phylogenetic analysis based on complete mitogenome in related fungi showed that P. cornucopiae is a member of the order Agaricales, forming a clade with P. ostreatus and P. eryngii, with P. ostreatus as a sister taxa. The mitochondrial genome sequence of P. cornucopiae appeared a promising tool for further studies of the taxonomy and evolution of Pleurotaceae and Agaricales.

Edible Mushrooms from Niger Delta, Nigeria with Heavy Metal Levels of Public Health Concern: A Human Health Risk Assessment

BACKGROUND

Mushrooms (US6759049B2, CA2372185A1, DE60108325D1) can be contaminated by heavy metals as described in various patents.

OBJECTIVE

This study has determined the potential human health risk associated with the consumption of mushroom in Niger Delta, Nigeria. Concentrations of Pb, Cd, Sn, Cu, Ni, Al and Zn in both wild/cultivated mushroom and background soil/substrate were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS).

METHODS

Heavy metal pollution was calculated using Bio-Concentration Factor (BCF) and Pollution Load Index (PLI) while human health risk assessment employed Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), Hazard Index (HI), Carcinogenic Risk (CR) and Total Cancer Risk (TCR). The mean concentration of metals in mushroom and soil/substrate ranged from 0.021 mg/kg - 29.16 mg/kg and 0.01 mg/kg - 56.11 mg/kg. When compared with standards by WHO, EU, SON, DPR, USEPA and NAFDAC, 100% violation was observed in Ni, Cu, Cd, Zn and partial violation by Pb in the mushroom sample although soil heavy metal concentrations were within safe limits.

RESULTS

There was bioconcentration and heavy metal enrichment as PLI ranged from 3.39 - 23.58. Estimated daily intakes were (0.00 - 0.47, 0.00 - 0.51 and 0.00 - 1.17) mg/kg/day and THQ were (0.01 - 0.46, 0.01 - 0.31 and 0.03 - 1.51) for adults, adolescents and children respectively. There was a violation of Permissible Tolerable Daily Intakes (PTDI) set by JECFA. Hazard indices were all >1, another indication of health concern.

CONCLUSION

Nickel showed the highest carcinogenic risk with values of 4.83E-04 - 1.43E-01, 5.31E-04 - 1.00E-01 and 1.20E-03 - 2.29E-01 for adults, adolescents and children respectively. About 80% of TCR ranged from x10-1 - x10-3. Consumption of mushroom in Niger delta-Nigeria may pose significant health risk.

Amanita Nephrotoxic Syndrome: Presumptive First Case Report on the Indian Subcontinent

Mushroom poisoning is a rare cause of acute kidney injury. Here, we present a case with presumed Amanita nephrotoxic syndrome, a first of its kind from the Indian subcontinent.

Notes on Amanita section Caesareae from Malaysia

Some Amanita specimens collected from Malaysia are critically investigated by morphological examination and molecular analysis of two gene fragments, the nuc rDNA partial 28S (28S) gene and the internal transcriber spacer (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 = ITS) regions. Six phylogenetic species of Amanita section Caesareae are recognized among the studied collections. One of them is described as new, A. malayensis. Four of the phylogenetic species correspond with existing morphology-based taxa: A. aporema, A. javanica, A. princeps, and A. similis. The remaining species is not described because of the paucity of material. Detailed descriptions and the distribution of these southeastern Asian species are provided, along with a key to the species of section Caesareae from Malaysia.

Accumulation of Heavy Metals by Wild Mushrooms in Ibadan, Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Many companies in Nigeria generate industrial effluents, including heavy metals. These metals can be accumulated by biota such as mushrooms, which are then eaten by the populace.

OBJECTIVES

The present study investigates the metal content of wild mushrooms in order to educate the local population on the safety of their consumption.

METHODS

Seven different species of wild mushrooms (Cortinarius melliolens, Chlorophyllum brunneum, Pleurotus florida, Volvariella speciosa, Cantharellus cibarius, Entoloma spp and Coprinus africana) growing in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria were analyzed for their heavy metal (copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb)) contents using atomic absorption spectrophotometry.

RESULTS

The concentrations of the heavy metals in the mushrooms and substrate varied by site of collection. The highest concentrations of Cu (92.31±8.42 mg/kg), Pb (76.00±9.78 mg/kg) and Cd (92.45±12.34 mg/kg) were obtained in C. africana, P. florida and V. speciosa, respectively. The lowest contents of Cu (56.00±5.02 mg/kg), and Cd (67.92±5.89 mg/kg) were obtained from C. melliolens, while C. cibarius had the lowest concentration of Pb (40.00±3.56 mg/kg). The highest concentrations of Pb (20.40±3.43 mg/kg) and Cd (26.40±4.34 mg/kg) were obtained in the substrate of C. molybdites, while the lowest Pb (12.40±2.12 mg/kg) and Cd (18.00±3.90 mg/kg) occurred in V. speciosa and C. cibarius, respectively. The bioaccumulation factors of the mushroom species studied ranged from 2.84 - 14.60.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study found that heavy metal accumulation varied by species of mushroom, metal content of the substrate and the bioavailability of the metal in the mushroom. The level of metals in mushrooms in the present study was relatively high. Therefore, cultivation of mushrooms in heavy metal-free soil should be encouraged.

Novel trypanocide from an extract of Pleurotus sajor-caju against Trypanosoma congolense

CONTEXT

Control of African trypanosomiasis relies on chemotherapy, but the development of resistance and the problem of drug residues require research for alternatives. Triterpenes and phenolics, the major constituents of Pleurotus sajor-caju (Fr.) Singer (Pleurotaceae), are reported to be effective against trypanosomiasis.

OBJECTIVE

Trypanocidal effect of whole Pleurotus sajor-caju aqueous extract was investigated in vivo against Trypanosoma congolense.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice (25-32 g) were divided into seven groups of six animals. Mice in groups A-F received 2.5 × 104 trypanosomes, while group G was uninfected. Extracts (100-250 mg/kg) were administered intraperitoneally for 5 days to groups A-D while diminazine aceturate (group E) and normal saline (group F) served as positive and negative controls, respectively. Parasitemia, survival time, body weight and haematological parameters were monitored for 60 days post-treatment.

RESULTS

Parasitemia decreased significantly (p < 0.01) post-treatment with 200 and 250 mg/kg of the extract and became undetectable by day 16 and 12 post-infection, respectively; the ED50 was 221.5 mg/kg. The packed cell volume (PCV) and the weight of mice treated with 250 mg/kg extract were 46.20 ± 2.6% and 32.05 ± 3.63 g, respectively, which is higher than the group treated with diminazine aceturate. The mean survival time of animals in groups D and E was >60 days, while that of group F was <4 days. Differential leucocyte count on day 68 post-infection in groups C, D and E were not significantly different.

CONCLUSION

Pleurotus sajor-caju therefore could be a potential source of new trypanocidal drugs.

A Preclinical Evaluation of the Antitumor Activities of Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms: A Molecular Insight

Cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality around the globe. For certain types of cancer, chemotherapy drugs have been extensively used for treatment. However, severe side effects and the development of resistance are the drawbacks of these agents. Therefore, development of new agents with no or minimal side effects is of utmost importance. In this regard, natural compounds are well recognized as drugs in several human ailments, including cancer. One class of fungi, “mushrooms,” contains numerous compounds that exhibit interesting biological activities, including antitumor activity. Many researchers, including our own group, are focusing on the anticancer potential of different mushrooms and the underlying molecular mechanism behind their action. The aim of this review is to discuss PI3K/AKT, Wnt-CTNNB1, and NF-κB signaling pathways, the occurrence of genetic alterations in them, the association of these aberrations with different human cancers and how different nodes of these pathways are targeted by various substances of mushroom origin. We have given evidence to propose the therapeutic attributes and possible mode of molecular actions of various mushroom-originated compounds. However, anticancer effects were typically demonstrated in in vitro and in vivo models and very limited number of studies have been conducted in the human population. It is our belief that this review will help the research community in designing concrete preclinical and clinical studies to test the anticancer potential of mushroom-originated compounds on different cancers harboring particular genetic alteration(s).

Hericium erinaceus Extract Reduces Anxiety and Depressive Behaviors by Promoting Hippocampal Neurogenesis in the Adult Mouse Brain

Versatile biological activities of Hericium erinaceus (HE) have been reported in many brain diseases. However, roles of HE in major psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety remain to be investigated. Therefore, we evaluated whether HE could reduce anxiety and depressive behaviors in the adult mouse and its underlying mechanisms. Male C57BL/6 mice were administered HE (20 or 60 mg/kg, p.o.) or saline once a day for 4 weeks. Open field and tail suspension tests were performed 30 min after the last administration of HE, followed by forced swim test 2 days later. We found that chronic administration of HE showed anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects. To elucidate possible mechanisms, proliferative activity of the hippocampal progenitor cells was assessed by immunohistochemistry of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki67. Moreover, to evaluate neuronal survival in the dentate gyrus, 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) (120 mg/kg, i.p.) was given at the first day of HE administration, followed by isolation of the brains 4 weeks later. HE (60 mg/kg) increased the number of PCNA- and Ki67-positive cells in the subgranular zone of the hippocampus, indicating increased proliferation of hippocampal progenitors. In addition, BrdU- and BrdU/NeuN-positive cells in the dentate gyrus were significantly increased when treated with HE (60 mg/kg) compared with the saline-treated group, demonstrating enhanced neurogenesis by HE treatment. Taken together, the results indicate that chronic HE administration can exert anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects, possibly by enhancing adult hippocampal neurogenesis.

PCR-Based Method for the Detection of Toxic Mushrooms Causing Food-Poisoning Incidents

In this study, species-specific identification of five toxic mushrooms, Chlorophyllum molybdites, Gymnopilus junonius, Hypholoma fasciculare, Pleurocybella porrigens, and Tricholoma ustale, which have been involved in food-poisoning incidents in Japan, was investigated. Specific primer pairs targeting internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions were designed for PCR detection. The specific amplicons were obtained from fresh, cooked, and simulated gastric fluid (SGF)-treated samples. No amplicons were detected from other mushrooms with similar morphology. Our method using one-step extraction of mushrooms allows rapid detection within 2.5 hr. It could be utilized for rapid identification or screening of toxic mushrooms.

A Critical Review on Health Promoting Benefits of Edible Mushrooms through Gut Microbiota

Mushrooms have long been used for medicinal and food purposes for over a thousand years, but a complete elucidation of the health-promoting properties of mushrooms through regulating gut microbiota has not yet been fully exploited. Mushrooms comprise a vast, and yet largely untapped, source of powerful new pharmaceutical substances. Mushrooms have been used in health care for treating simple and common diseases, like skin diseases and pandemic diseases like AIDS. This review is aimed at accumulating the health-promoting benefits of edible mushrooms through gut microbiota. Mushrooms are proven to possess anti-allergic, anti-cholesterol, anti-tumor, and anti-cancer properties. Mushrooms are rich in carbohydrates, like chitin, hemicellulose, β and α-glucans, mannans, xylans, and galactans, which make them the right choice for prebiotics. Mushrooms act as a prebiotics to stimulate the growth of gut microbiota, conferring health benefits to the host. In the present review, we have summarized the beneficial activities of various mushrooms on gut microbiota via the inhibition of exogenous pathogens and, thus, improving the host health.

Immunomodulatory Properties of Coriolus versicolor: The Role of Polysaccharopeptide

Traditional uses of herbal medicine have depended mostly on anecdotal evidence for much of history. The increasing application of scientific rigor to the study some of these traditional therapies in recent years has revealed potent bioactivity, notably demonstrated by the 2015 Nobel Prize for the discovery of an antimalarial compound from traditional Chinese herbs. Given the recent successes of immunotherapy and checkpoint blockade, there is a renewed interest in identifying new drugs with immunomodulatory effects. As an estimated 45-60% of cancer patients worldwide are reported to use complementary alternative medicine alongside traditional therapy, this review will highlight the literature on the immunomodulatory effects of one of these compounds. We report on the induction of a largely pro-inflammatory cytokine profile by the polysaccharopeptide (PSP) isolated from the Coriolus versicolor (Yun zhi) mushroom, as well as its effects on various immune subsets, and the clinical data that have led to its widespread adoption as an adjunct cancer therapeutic in many Eastern cultures. Particular focus is given to the potential mechanisms underlying the bioactivity of PSP and reports of its ability to promote antitumor immunity by helping overcome tolerogenic tumor microenvironments.

Study of response of Swiss Webster mice to light subunit of mushroom tyrosinase

The light subunit of mushroom, Agaricus bisporus, tyrosinase (LSMT), has been identified as an extrinsic component of the enzyme. Its function is unknown, but it can cross an epithelial cell layer, which suggests that it can be absorbed by the intestine. A similar capability has been demonstrated for the HA-33 component of the progenitor toxin from Clostridium botulinum, which is the closest structural homolog of LSMT. Unlike HA-33, LSMT appears to be non-immunogenic as shown by preliminary tests in Swiss Webster mice. We investigated the immunogenicity and histopathology of LSMT in mice to determine its safety in vivo. LSMT did not evoke generation of antibodies after prolonged periods of intraperitoneal administration. Histopathological observations confirmed the absence of responses in organs after twelve weekly administrations of LSMT. We found that LSMT is not toxic and is less immunogenic than the C. botulinum HA-33 protein, which supports further research and development for pharmaceutical application.

Occurrence of the (2R,3S)-Isomer of 2-Amino-3,4-dihydroxybutanoic Acid in the Mushroom Hypsizygus marmoreus

Here, we report the occurrence of the (2R,3S)-isomer of 2-amino-3,4-dihydroxybutanoic acid (d-ADHB) in the fruiting body of an edible mushroom, Hypsizygus marmoreus. This is an unusual example of the accumulation of a d-amino acid whose enantiomer is not a proteinogenic amino acid. We show that d-ADHB occurs specifically in the mushroom H. marmoreus. Other edible mushrooms examined, including Pholiota microspora, Pleurotus eryngii, Mycena chlorophos, Sparassis crispa, Grifola frondosa, Pleurotus ostreatus, and Flammulina velutipes, do not contain detectable levels of d-ADHB. The concentration of d-ADHB in the fruiting body of H. marmoreus is relatively high (approximately 1.3 mg/g of fruiting body) and is comparable to the concentration of some of the most abundant free proteinogenic amino acids. Quantitative analysis of d-ADHB during fruiting body development demonstrated that the amino acid is synthesized during the fruiting body formation period. The absence of the putative precursors of d-ADHB, the (2S,3S)-isomer of ADHB and 2-oxo-tetronate, and the enzyme activities of d-ADHB racemase (2-epimerase) and transaminase suggested that d-ADHB is synthesized by a unique mechanism in this organism. Our data also suggested that the lack of or low expression of a d-ADHB degradation enzyme is a key determinant of d-ADHB accumulation in H. marmoreus.

Nutritional quality of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus Ostreatus) as affected by osmotic pretreatments and drying methods

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different levels of osmotic pretreatments prior to drying and different drying methods on nutritional quality of dried mushroom slices. The experiment consisted of sun, solar, and oven drying after dipping the slices in salt solutions of 5 and 10% concentrations for 50 minutes, the control being untreated mushroom sample. Significant differences in proximate composition were observed between the fresh and dried mushroom samples. The average mean value of crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash, and carbohydrates of the fresh mushroom samples were 28.85, 2.47, 12.87, 9.76 and 48.16% as compared to 25.91, 2.18, 10.41, 10.91 and 42.14% for dried samples. Oven drying resulted in higher content of ash (11.06%) and carbohydrates (43.64%) and lower contents of crude protein (24.99%), crude fat (2.12%), and crude fiber (10.21%). The osmotic pretreatments significantly affected the composition of the dried mushroom samples. As salt concentration increased from 0 to 5 and 10%, the protein content reduced from 26.78 to 25.99 and 24. 95%, the fat reduced from 2.42 to 2.19 and 1.94, and fiber from 12.82 to 9.41 and 9.01%, respectively. Contrarily, the ash increased from 9.75 to 12.20%, and the carbohydrate from 38.16 to 43.08 and 45.18%, respectively.

New Acetylenic Acids and Derivatives from the Edible Mushroom Craterellus lutescens (Cantharellaceae)

Thirteen new acetylenic acids and their derivatives, craterellynes G-Q (1, 2, 4-10, 12, 13), 9-epi-craterellyne H (3), and 14-O-ethyl-craterellyne O (11), were isolated from the fruiting bodies of edible mushrooms Craterellus lutescens. The structures of these compounds were identified by various spectroscopic and chemical means. The stereoconfigurations of 1-13 were elucidated by the combination of acetonide formation, J-based configuration analysis, and modified Mosher's method. Craterellyne I exhibited cytotoxicities against human cancer strains and inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production, as well as weak antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans.

Effect of cooking and preservation on nutritional and phytochemical composition of the mushroom Amanita zambiana

The effect of different cooking and preservation methods on the nutritional and phytochemical composition of the mushroom, Amanita zambiana, was investigated. Fresh mushrooms were boiled in water, fried, or microwaved. In addition, fresh mushrooms were either air-dried for 7 days or frozen at -20°C for 14 days. The protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and phenolic content of the treated mushrooms were measured and compared to the fresh mushroom contents. Frying increased the protein (2.01% ± 0.2% [fresh mushroom] to 2.23% ± 0.09%), lipid (14.68% ± 0.9% to 15.56% ± 0.34%), and carbohydrate (0.89% ± 0.01% to 2.69% ± 0.03%) content, while microwaving increased the protein (2.01% ± 0.2% to 3.64% ± 0.08%) and carbohydrate content (0.89% ± 0.01% to 2.26% ± 0.09%). Boiling only increased the carbohydrate content (0.89% ± 0.01% to 1.71% ± 0.05%) of the mushroom and significantly decreased (p < .05) the phenolic content (8.77 ± 0.1 to 1.46 ± 0.2 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g mushroom). Drying resulted in significant increase (p < .05) in protein (2.01 ± 0.2% to 24.36 ± 0.09%), carbohydrate (0.89% ± 0.01% to 58.67% ± 3.29%), and phenolic contents (8.77 ± 0.1 to 119.8 ± 0.7 mg GAE/g mushroom), while freezing only increased the carbohydrate content (0.89% ± 0.01% to 1.77% ± 0.03%). From the three cooking methods studied, frying is recommended as the most effective cooking procedure in retaining or enhancing the mushroom nutrients, while drying is a better preservation method than freezing.

Impact of microbial growth inhibition and proteolytic activity on the stability of a new formulation containing a phytate-degrading enzyme obtained from mushroom

The development of stable enzymes is a key issue in both the food and feed industries. Consequently, the aim of the current study is to evaluate the impact of various additives (sodium chloride, sodium citrate, mannitol, methylparaben, polyethylene glycol 3350, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt, and a serine protease inhibitor) on the stability of a mushroom phytase produced by solid-state cultivation and recovery. Also observed was the effect of the additives on microbial growth inhibition by monitoring both the change in optical density over 30 days of storage and proteolytic activity. Initially, eight experimental formulations were prepared along with a control. After screening, a 3(2) factorial design was applied to define suitable concentrations of the selected additives. Among the eight formulations tested, the formulation containing NaCl, PEG 3350, and methylparaben retained all of the initial phytase activity after 50 days of storage, with no detected interference from protease activity. Sodium citrate, a metal chelation agent, presented the unusual effect of reducing protease activity in the formulations. Although all formulations presented better phytase stability when compared to the control, NaCl and PEG were both able to prolong the stability of the enzyme activity and also to inhibit microbial growth during storage, making them favorable for application as food and feed additives.

Mushroom Consumption and Incident Dementia in Elderly Japanese: The Ohsaki Cohort 2006 Study

BACKGROUND

Both in vivo and in vitro studies have indicated that edible mushrooms may have preventive effects against cognitive impairment. However, few cohort studies have yet examined the relationship between mushroom consumption and incident dementia.

OBJECTIVE

We examined the relationship between mushroom consumption and incident dementia in a population of elderly Japanese subjects.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Ohsaki Cohort 2006 Study.

PARTICIPANTS

13,230 individuals aged ≥65 years living in Ohsaki City, northeastern Japan.

MEASUREMENTS

Daily mushroom consumption, other lifestyle factors, and dementia incidence.

RESULTS

The 5.7 years incidence of dementia was 8.7%. In comparison with participants who consumed mushrooms <1 time/wk, the multi-adjusted HRs (95% CI) for incident dementia among those did so 1-2 times/week and ≥3 times/week were 0.95 (0.81, 1.10) and 0.81 (0.69, 0.95), respectively (P-trend <.01). The inverse association persisted after excluding participants whose dementia event occurred in the first 2 years of follow-up and whose baseline cognitive function was lower. The inverse association did not differ statistically in terms of vegetable consumption (P-interaction = .10).

CONCLUSIONS

This cohort study suggests that frequent mushroom consumption is significantly associated with a lower risk of incident dementia, even after adjustment for possible confounding factors.

Trypsin-specific Inhibitors from the Macrolepiota procera, Armillaria mellea and Amanita phalloides wild mushrooms

Wild growing mushrooms are a rich source of novel proteins with unique features. We have isolated and characterized trypsin inhibitors from two edible mushrooms, the honey fungus (Armillaria mellea) and the parasol mushroom (Macrolepiota procera), and from the poisonous death cap (Amanita phalloides). The trypsin inhibitors isolated: armespin, macrospin and amphaspin, have similar molecular masses, acidic isoelectric points and are not N-glycosylated. They are very strong trypsin inhibitors and weak chymotrypsin inhibitors. They are resistant to exposure to high temperatures and withstand extreme pH values. These exceptional characteristics are advantageous for their potential use in biotechnology, agriculture and medicine.

The Anti-Adipogenic Activity of a New Cultivar, Pleurotus eryngii var. ferulae 'Beesan No. 2', through Down-Regulation of PPAR γ and C/EBP α in 3T3-L1 Cells

Adipogenesis is one of the cellular processes and a highly controlled program. Nowadays, inhibition of adipogenesis has received attention as an effective way to regulate obesity. In the current study, we investigated the inhibition effect of a chloroform extract of Pleurotus eryngii var. ferulae 'Beesan No. 2' (CEBT) on adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 murine preadipocytes. Pleurotus eryngii var. ferulae is one of many varieties of King oyster mushroom and has been reported to have various biological activities, including antitumor and anti-inflammation effects. Biological activities of 'Beesan No. 2', a new cultivar of Pleurotus eryngii var. ferulae, have not yet been reported. In this study, we found that CEBT suppressed adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells through inhibition of key adipogenic transcription factors, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α. Additionally, CEBT reduced the expression of the IRS/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and its downstream factors, including mammalian target of rapamycin and p70S6 kinase, which stimulate adipogenesis. Furthermore, β-catenin, a suppressor of adipogenesis, was increased in CEBT-treated cells. These results indicate that Pleurotus eryngii var. ferulae 'Beesan No. 2' effectively inhibited adipogenesis, so this mushroom has potential as an anti-obesity food and drug.

Plant growth regulators from the fruiting bodies of Tricholoma flavovirens

A novel indole derivative (1) and three known compounds (2-4) were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Tricholoma flavovirens. Their structures were determined or identified by the interpretation of spectroscopic data. Compounds 1 and 2 promoted root growth of lettuce and inhibited hypocotyl growth at 1 μmol/paper. Compound 3 inhibited hypocotyl and root growth at 100 nmol/paper.

Antimicrobials from Mushrooms for Assuring Food Safety

The interest in discovering and developing natural antimicrobials has significantly increased due to consumer preferences for foods that are free of chemical preservatives while still microbiologically safe. One of the best sources of natural antimicrobials is certain mushrooms (fungi) as many of them not only have nutraceutical functions but also possess antimicrobial properties. This article reviews the available information on mushroom antimicrobials for food safety control. It includes available resources, extraction procedures, antimicrobial activities, and the status of their applications to food safety. The review indicates that there are great potential benefits to be gained from mushroom antimicrobials in food production, processing, and preservation as a biosolution to meet the increasing demands for food quality and safety.

A combination of NADHP and hispidin is not essential for bioluminescence in luminous fungal living gills of Mycena chlorophos

The chemical mechanisms underlying visible bioluminescence in the fungus Mycena chlorophos are not clear. A combination of dihydronicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) and hispidin, which has been reported to increase the intensity of in vitro luminescence in crude cold-water extracts prepared from the bioluminescent fruiting bodies of M. chlorophos, exhibited potential bioluminescence activation in the early bioluminescence stages, in which the bioluminescence was ultra-weak, for living gills and luminescence activation for non-bioluminescent gills, which was collapsed by freezing and subsequent thawing, at all bioluminescence stages. These abilities were not evident in considerably bioluminescent gills. These abilities were blocked by trans-4-hydroxycinnamic acid and trans-3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid, which were identified as in vivo bioluminescence-activating components. Original bioluminescence and bioluminescence produced from the addition of trans-4-hydroxycinnamic acid and trans-3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid in living gills were almost completely inhibited by 10 mM NaN₃ , whereas the luminescence produced form the combination of NADPH and hispidin in thawed non-bioluminescent and living gills at the early weak bioluminescence stages was not inhibited by 10 mM NaN₃ . Thus, the combination of NADPH and hispidin plays different roles in luminescence systems compared with essential bioluminescence systems, and the combination of NADPH and hispidin was not essential for visible bioluminescence in living gills.

Optimization of ergosterol to vitamin D2 synthesis in Agaricus bisporus powder using ultraviolet-B radiation

Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to determine the optimum circumstances for conversion of ergosterol to vitamin D₂ via ultraviolet-B (UV-B) in white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) powder. Three independent variables, namely, exposure time, ambient temperature, and irradiation intensity were investigated using a central composite rotatable design. The RSM ridge analysis determined the following ideal states: exposure time of 10.4 min, ambient temperature of 26.33°C, and UV-B irradiation intensity of 1.36 W/m². A vitamin D₂ content of 741.50±23.75 μg/g (the predicted value was 780.4 μg/g) was obtained under these ideal conditions.

Protective Effects of Pleurotus tuber-regium on Carbon- Tetrachloride Induced Testicular Injury in Sprague Dawley Rats

The high rate of male infertility and the meager resources to manage same in sub Saharan Africa have necessitated the search for cost effective and available alternatives. Mushrooms have been used traditionally in folk medicine and as nutraceuticals. This study has investigated the effect of the wild mushroom Pleurotus tuber-regium on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) deleterious effects on the reproductive system of male rats. Thirty six rats were divided into six groups of six animals each. Group I (negative control) received 10 ml/kg olive oil intraperitoneal weekly in addition to feed and water ad libitum. Group II (positive control) received CCl4 10 ml/kg (30% in Olive oil) weekly. Group III, IV, and V received 100 mg, 20 0mg, and 500 mg P. tuber-regium (33.3% in feed) daily in addition to 10 ml/kg CCl4 weekly. Group VI received 500 mg P. tuber-regium (33.3% in feed) daily. After 4 weeks, sperm motility, epididymal count and vitality were determined. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone, Luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin and oestradiol were estimated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Histopathologic examinations of the testis were carried out. Carbon tetrachloride significantly reduced the sperm motility (54.33 ± 3.79%), epididymal count (28.73 ± 2.86 × 106/ml, vitality (4.96 ± 0.62), LH (0.88 ± 0.14), FSH (2.04 ± 0.33), and Testosterone (2.02 ± 0.24) when compared with control (89.33 ± 9.01), 91.91 ± 1.92 × 106/ml, 13.12 ± 0.19, 2.74 ± 0.32, 3.64 ± 0.62, and 4.16 ± 0.23, respectively, which were reversed by P. tuber-regium administration. Co-administration of P. tuber-regium plus CCl4 significantly reduced MDA level. P. tuber-regium showed dose dependent ameliorative activity against CCl4 deleterious action on the testis and may be beneficial in the management of male infertility.

Golden Needle Mushroom: A Culinary Medicine with Evidenced-Based Biological Activities and Health Promoting Properties

Flammulina velutipes (enoki, velvet shank, golden needle mushroom or winter mushroom), one of the main edible mushrooms on the market, has long been recognized for its nutritional value and delicious taste. In recent decades, research has expanded beyond detailing its nutritional composition and delved into the biological activities and potential health benefits of its constituents. Many bioactive constituents from a range of families have been isolated from different parts of the mushroom, including carbohydrates, protein, lipids, glycoproteins, phenols, and sesquiterpenes. These compounds have been demonstrated to exhibit various biological activities, such as antitumour and anticancer activities, anti-atherosclerotic and thrombosis inhibition activity, antihypertensive and cholesterol lowering effects, anti-aging and antioxidant properties, ability to aid with restoring memory and overcoming learning deficits, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-bacterial, ribosome inactivation and melanosis inhibition. This review aims to consolidate the information concerning the phytochemistry and biological activities of various compounds isolated from F. velutipes to demonstrate that this mushroom is not only a great source of nutrients but also possesses tremendous potential in pharmaceutical drug development.

A Jacalin-Related Lectin Regulated the Formation of Aerial Mycelium and Fruiting Body in Flammulina velutipes

Flammulina velutipes, one of the most popular mushroom species in the world, has been recognized as a useful model system to study the biochemical and physiological aspects of the formation and elongation of fruit body. However, few reports have been published on the regulation of fruiting body formation in F. velutipes at the molecular level. In this study, a jacalin-related lectin gene from F. velutipes was characterized. The phylogenetic tree revealed that Fv-JRL1 clustered with other basidiomycete jacalin-like lectins. Moreover, the transcriptional pattern of the Fv-JRL1 gene in different developmental stages of F. velutipes implied that Fv-JRL1 could be important for formation of fruit body. Additionally, RNA interference (RNAi) and overexpression analyses provided powerful evidence that the lectin gene Fv-JRL1 from F. velutipes plays important roles in fruiting body formation.

Physical Interaction of T Cells with Dendritic Cells Is Not Required for the Immunomodulatory Effects of the Edible Mushroom Agaricus subrufescens

Mushrooms are well known for their immunomodulating capacities. However, little is known about how mushroom-stimulated dendritic cells (DCs) affect T cells. Therefore, we investigated the effect of mushroom compounds derived from seven edible mushroom species on DCs, their fate in DCs, and the effect of the mushroom-stimulated DCs on T cells. Each mushroom species stimulated DCs in a different manner as was revealed from the DC’s cytokine response. Assessing DC maturation revealed that only one mushroom species, Agaricus subrufescens, induced complete DC maturation. The other six mushroom species upregulated MHC-II and CD86 expression, but did not significantly affect the expression of CD40 and CD11c. Nevertheless, mushroom compounds of all investigated mushroom species are endocytosed by DCs. Endocytosis is most likely mediated by C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) because CLR binding is Ca²⁺ dependent, and EGTA reduces TNF-α secretion with more than 90%. Laminarin partly inhibited TNF-α secretion indicating that the CLR dectin-1, among other CLRs, is involved in binding mushroom compounds. Stimulated DCs were shown to stimulate T cells; however, physical contact of DCs and T cells is not required. Because CLRs seem to play a prominent role in DC stimulation, mushrooms may function as a carbohydrate containing adjuvant to be used in conjunction with anti-fungal vaccines.

Micrographical analysis of growth deformities in common pathogens induced by voucher fungi from India

A vast diversity of microbes including macrofungi remain untapped for valuable bioactivities including antimicrobial activity. Searching wild sources may bring novel natural products with antimicrobial properties that can provide protection against infectious diseases. The present study was designed to identify the diverse forms of mushrooms being used as an ethnomycological source of food and medicine by the tribes of Meghalaya, India, and microscopically study the structures of mushrooms along with observing their antimicrobial effects on pathogens. Fruiting bodies of mushrooms were viewed morphologically and microscopically, and were identified using molecular markers. The dried aerial parts of the fruiting bodies were extracted with methanol and screened for their antimicrobial activity using 2,3,-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride against two Gram-negative and two Gram-positive bacteria. The average diameter of the inhibitory zone induced by fungal extracts ranged from 9 mm to 22 mm for Gram-negative and from 16 mm to 24 mm for Gram-positive bacteria, indicating that this dietary source is a good antimicrobial agent. Mushroom structures were examined using optical microscopy, while the deformities on the pathogens inflicted by mushroom extracts were visualized using scanning electron microscopy, which showed accumulation and formation of biofilm in Gram-positive and shrinkage with cavity formation in Gram-negative bacteria.

Extraction of Natural Antioxidants from the Thelephora ganbajun Mushroom by an Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Technique and Evaluation of Antiproliferative Activity of the Extract against Human Cancer Cells

The Thelephora ganbajun mushroom has been found to be a potential rich source of natural antioxidants. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) technique together with GRAS (generally recognized as safe) solvents (ethanol and water) was used to maximize the extraction of antioxidants from Thelephora ganbajun. Five extraction parameters (ethanol concentration, solvent to solid ratio, extraction time, temperature and ultrasound power) were investigated by single-factor experiments, and then a central composite rotatable design was employed to study interaction of three key extraction parameters. The optimum conditions were as follows: 57.38% ethanol, 70.15 mL/g solvent to solid ratio, 10.58 min extraction time, 40 °C extraction temperature and 500 W ultrasound power. Under the optimum conditions, the antioxidant activity obtained was 346.98 ± 12.19 µmol Trolox/g DW, in accordance with the predicted value of 344.67 µmol Trolox/g DW. Comparison of UAE with conventional maceration and Soxhlet extraction, the UAE method showed stronger extract efficiency in a shorter extraction time. These results showed that UAE was an effective technique to extract antioxidants from Thelephora ganbajun. Furthermore, the extracts obtained under the optimized conditions exhibited antiproliferative activities toward human lung (A549), breast (MCF-7), liver (HepG2) and colon (HT-29) cancer cells, especially for liver and lung cancer cells. In addition, rutin, 2-hydrocinnamic acid and epicatechin were identified in the extract, which might contribute to antioxidant and antiproliferative activities.

Mushroom varieties found in the Himalayan regions of India: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activities

This study evaluates the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activities of mushroom varieties (Agaricus bisporus, Pleurotus ostreatus, and Coprinus atramentarius) found in the Himalayan regions of Jammu and Kashmir, India. All three mushroom varieties exhibited antioxidant activity. A. bisporus showed the highest diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl inhibition activity (87.88±5.6%), C. atramentarius showed the highest reducing power (0.49±0.01) and metal chelating ability (48.57± 0.38%), and P. ostreatus contained the highest phenolic (5.25±0.14 mg gallic acid equivalent per gram) and flavonoid content (64.39±0.73 μg rutin equivalent per gram). C. atramentarius showed maximum antibacterial activity against all the pathogenic strains and the highest zone of inhibition was against S. typhi (7.45±0.5 mm). P. ostreatus exhibited the highest cell proliferation inhibition against Colo-205 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines. The structural analysis by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated the presence of β-configuration in carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, and protein, which impart nutraceutical properties to mushrooms.

Saproamanita, a new name for both Lepidella E.-J. Gilbert and Aspidella E.-J. Gilbert (Amaniteae, Amanitaceae)

The genus Amanita has been divided into two monophyletic taxa, Amanita, an ectomycorrhizal genus, and Aspidella, a saprotrophic genus. The controversies and histories about recognition of the two genera based on trophic status are discussed. The name Aspidella E.-J. Gilbert is shown to be illegitimate and a later homonym of Aspidella E. Billings, a well-known generic name for an enigmatic fossil sometimes classified as a fungus or alga. The name Saproamanita is coined to replace Aspidella E.-J. Gilbert for the saprotrophic Amanitas, and a selection of previously molecularly analyzed species and closely classified grassland species are transferred to it along with selected similar taxa. The type illustration for the type species, S. vittadinii, is explained and a subgeneric classification accepting Amanita subgen. Amanitina and subgen. Amanita is proposed. Validation of the family name, Amanitaceae E.-J. Gilbert dating from 1940, rather than by Pouzar in 1983 is explained.

Bioactivities and Health Benefits of Mushrooms Mainly from China

Many mushrooms have been used as foods and medicines for a long time. Mushrooms contain polyphenols, polysaccharides, vitamins and minerals. Studies show that mushrooms possess various bioactivities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and antidiabetic properties, therefore, mushrooms have attracted increasing attention in recent years, and could be developed into functional food or medicines for prevention and treatment of several chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative diseases. The present review summarizes the bioactivities and health benefits of mushrooms, and could be useful for full utilization of mushrooms.

Variations of arsenic species content in edible Boletus badius growing at polluted sites over four years

The content of arsenic (As) in mushrooms can vary depending on the concentration level of this metalloid in the soil/substrate. The present study evaluated the content of arsenic in Boletus badius fruiting bodies collected from polluted and non-polluted sites in relation to the content of this element in overgrown substrate. It was found that mushrooms from the arsenic-polluted sites contained mean concentrations from 49 to 450 mg As kg(-1) dry matter (d.m.), with the greatest content found for specimens growing in close proximity of sludge deposits (490±20 mg As kg(-1)d.m.). The mean content of total arsenic in mushrooms from clean sites ranged from 0.03 to 0.37 mg kg(-1) It was found that B. badius could tolerate arsenic in soil substrate at concentrations of up to 2500 mg kg(-1), at least. In different years of investigation, shifts in particular arsenic forms, as well as a general increase in the accumulation of organic arsenic content, were observed. The results of this study clearly indicate that B. badius should not be collected for culinary purposes from any sites that may be affected by pollution.

Comparison of the effect of two types of whole mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) powders on intestinal fermentation in rats

The effects of two types of mushroom (Agaricus bisporus; white, WM; brown, BM) powders on intestinal fermentation in rats were investigated in terms of the physical characteristics of animals and by bacterial and HPLC analyses of cecal contents. Short-chain fatty acid levels were found to be significantly higher in the WM group than in the BM and the control (CN) groups; coliform bacteria levels in the BM group were significantly lower than those in the CN group, with the WM group inducing an apparent but insignificant decrease in coliforms. Anaerobe levels in the WM group were significantly higher than those in the CN group and, compared with the CN group, the BM and WM groups exhibited significantly increased feces weight and cecum weight, respectively. These results indicate that the mushroom powders, and in particular the WM powder, have beneficial effects on the intestinal environment in rats.

Identification of possible light emitters in the gills of a bioluminescent fungus Mycena chlorophos

The pileus of Mycena chlorophos actively, spontaneously, and continuously emits green light. Molecular mechanisms underlying this bioluminescence remain unclear. We investigated light emitters in the pileus of M. chlorophos to determine the underlying mechanisms. High-performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence-photodiode array-mass detection analyses showed that actively luminescent gills in the pileus exclusively and abundantly possessed riboflavin, riboflavin 5'-monophosphate, and flavin adenine dinucleotide as green-fluorescent components. These components were localized in the bioluminescent region of the gills at the microscopic level. Fluorescence spectra of these green-fluorescent components and the gills were identical with the spectrum of gill bioluminescence (maximum emission wavelength, 525 nm). Thus, our results indicated that the possible light emitters in the pileus of M. chlorophos were riboflavin, riboflavin 5'-monophosphate, and/or flavin adenine dinucleotide. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effects of overexpression of PKAc genes on expressions of lignin-modifying enzymes by Pleurotus ostreatus

We studied the role of genes encoding the cAMP-dependent protein kinase A catalytic subunit (PKAc) in the ligninolytic system in Pleurotus ostreatus. The wild-type P. ostreatus strain PC9 has two PKAc-encoding genes: PKAc1 and PKAc2 (protein ID 114122 and 85056). In the current study, PKAc1 and PKAc2 were fused with a β-tubulin promoter and introduced into strain PC9 to produce the overexpression strains PKAc1-97 and PKAc2-69. These strains showed significantly higher transcription levels of isozyme genes encoding lignin-modifying enzymes than strain PC9, but the specific gene expression patterns differed between the two recombinant strains. Both recombinants showed 2.05-2.10-fold faster degradation of beechwood lignin than strain PC9. These results indicate that PKAc plays an important role in inducing the wood degradation system in P. ostreatus.

Factors Affecting Mortality and Complications in Mushroom Poisonings Over a 20 Year Period: A Report from Central Anatolia

OBJECTIVES

Mushroom poisoning (MP) is one of the world's leading seasonal and regional health problems. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between clinical factors and outcomes of mushroom poisoning.

METHODS

The study was conducted in the emergency department. The patients who presented between January 1st, 1991 and December 31, 2010 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

599 MP cases were enrolled into the statistical analysis. The elderly group had a higher rate of mortality (8.8%) and complications (12.3%) (p=0.005) (OR 3.98, 95% CI: 1.9291 to 8.2290; p=0.0002). The patients who presented in summer had a higher rate of mortality (9.5%) and complications (11.9%) (p≤0.001). (OR: 3.83, 95% CI 1.7068 to 8.6074, p=0.0011). The rate of mortality and complications in patients who had eaten self-harvested wild mushrooms (WM) was 6.8%, while those who purchased WM had a mortality and complication rate of 15.2% (p=0.016), (Purchased WM OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.1609 to 5.2353, p=0.0189). The rate of mortality and complications in the patients who presented with gastrointestinal symptoms was 9.9% (OR: 3.98, 95% CI 1.5503 to 10.2679; p=0.0041).

CONCLUSIONS

Factors such as being elderly, summer season, purchased WM, and gastrointestinal symptoms were significantly associated with mortality and complications in our study.

Acute Pancreatitis Caused By Mushroom Poisoning: A Report of Two Cases

Of the more than 5000 species of mushrooms known, 100 types are toxic and approximately 10% of these toxic types can cause fatal toxicity. A type of mushroom called Amanita phalloides is responsible for 95% of toxic mushroom poisonings. In this article, we report 2 cases of mushroom poisonings caused by Lactarius volemus, known as Tirmit by the local people. The patient and his wife were admitted to the emergency room with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting 20 hours after consuming Lactarius volemus, an edible type of mushroom. The patients reported that they had been collecting this mushroom from the mountains and eating them for several years but had never developed any clinicopathology to date. Further examination of the patients revealed a very rare case of acute pancreatitis due to mushroom intoxication. The male patient was admitted to the intensive care unit while his wife was followed in the internal medicine service, because of her relative mild clinical symptoms. Both patients recovered without sequelae and were discharged. In this article, we aimed to emphasize that gastrointestinal symptoms are often observed in mushroom intoxications and can be confused with acute pancreatitis, thus leading to misdiagnosis of patients. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve patients’ prognosis and prevent the development of complications.

Tea waste: an effective and economic substrate for oyster mushroom cultivation

BACKGROUND

Tea waste is the residue that remains after tea leaves have been extracted by hot water to obtain water-soluble components. The waste contains a re-usable energy substrate and nutrients which may pollute the environment if they are not dealt with appropriately. Other agricultural wastes have been widely studied as substrates for cultivating mushrooms. In the present study, we cultivated oyster mushroom using tea waste as substrate. To study the feasibility of re-using it, tea waste was added to the substrate at different ratios in different experimental groups. Three mushroom strains (39, 71 and YOU) were compared and evaluated. Mycelia growth rate, yield, biological efficiency and growth duration were measured.

RESULTS

Substrates with different tea waste ratios showed different growth and yield performance. The substrate containing 40-60% of tea waste resulted in the highest yield.

CONCLUSION

Tea waste could be used as an effective and economic substrate for oyster mushroom cultivation. This study also provided a useful way of dealing with massive amounts of tea waste.

Review of Naturopathy of Medical Mushroom, Ophiocordyceps Sinensis, in Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunctions including desire, arousal, orgasm, and pain disorders are increasing worldwide due to etiological factors and aging. Several types of treatment are claimed in modern medicine, but they have serious side effects and higher costs. In fact, alternative approaches, such as the intake of plants, fungi, and insects, or their extracts, have also been practiced to enhance sexuality and ameliorate illness with notable successes. However, the scientific evidence related to the mechanisms and efficacy of these alternative medicines is both scarce and all too often unconvincing. Ophiocordyceps sinensis is an Ascomycetes fungus parasitic to Lepidoptera larvae, and has long been used as medicine to treat many illnesses and promote longevity in Chinese society. Previous investigations have shown that O. sinensis has many pharmacological activities. This review has focused on illustrating that O. sinensis can enhance libido and sexual performance, and can restore impaired reproductive functions, such as impotency or infertility, in both sexes.

Lentinus squarrosulus (Mont.) mycelium enhanced antioxidant status in rat model

Aim

Lentinus squarrosulus is an edible wild mushroom commonly found in Asia. This species has several interesting features such as rapid mycelial growth, and hence has the potential to be used as food, functional food, and nutraceuticals. Our previous study shows that L. squarrosulus contains potent antioxidant compounds in vitro. This study aims to investigate the in vivo bioavailability of L. squarrosulus mycelium extract and its antioxidant effect on biomarkers of antioxidant defense and oxidative stress.

Methods

Water extract of mycelial biomass of L. squarrosulus was analyzed for in vivo antioxidant effects, including cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), xanthine oxidase (XO), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), and lipid hydroperoxides (LHPs) at 0 and 28 days. GPx and XO were also analyzed in liver homogenates. Normal Sprague Dawley rats were treated with 250 and 500 mg/kg of extract for 28 days.

Results

The serum CUPRAC level increased after treatment with both concentrations, indicating that there was sufficient bioavailability of the extract which contributed to the total antioxidant capacity. GPx activity in both serum and liver was increased and this correlated with LHP level after treatment with 250 mg/kg of extract, but XO activity was significantly decreased after treatment with 500 mg/kg of the extract. Lack of difference between AOPP levels implied that there were no significant changes in oxidative damage of protein after treatment.

Conclusion

This study clearly showed that L. squarrosulus mycelium antioxidant extract contains absorbable antioxidants that enter the circulating plasma and cause a significant acute increase in plasma antioxidant capacity. Thus, the water extract of L. squarrosulus mycelium, which can be obtained abundantly by liquid fermentation, may serve as an antioxidant ingredient in functional foods and nutraceuticals.

Effect of mushroom diet on pharmacokinetics of gabapentin in healthy Chinese subjects

AIMS

This study evaluated the pharmacokinetics of gabapentin in Chinese subjects who received a diet rich in shiitake mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms have been shown to contain high amount of ergothioneine. In vitro studies have shown that OCTN1-mediated secretion of gabapentin is trans-stimulated by ergothioneine. This study also investigated the concentrations of ergothioneine in plasma at baseline and following mushroom consumption.

METHODS

Ten healthy male subjects were recruited and received a diet containing no mushrooms (treatment A) or a high mushroom diet (treatment B; after at least a 7 day washout period) 1 day prior to administration of a single oral dose of gabapentin 600 mg.

RESULTS

Ingestion of shiitake mushrooms produced significant increases in plasma ergothioneine concentrations that were sustained for more than 48 h. A statistically significant but modest increase in the renal clearance (CLR ) of gabapentin occurred after intake of the mushroom diet (91.1 ± 25.1 vs. 76.9 ± 20.6 ml min(-1) , P = 0.031). No significant changes in AUC(0,tlast ) of gabapentin were observed (P = 0.726). Creatinine clearance did not correlate with CLR of gabapentin at baseline (treatment A). After ingestion of the mushroom diet, creatinine clearance accounted for 65.3% of the variance in CLR of gabapentin.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that diet-drug pharmacokinetic interactions may occur during co-exposure to gabapentin and mushroom constituents. However, as it does not affect the AUC(0,tlast ) of gabapentin, it may not have clinically important consequences. Shiitake mushrooms can also be used as a source of ergothioneine for future clinical studies.

Dose-Response Effect of Sunlight on Vitamin D2 Production in Agaricus bisporus Mushrooms

The dose response effect of UV-B irradiation from sunlight on vitamin D2 content of sliced Agaricus bisporus (white button mushroom) during the process of sun-drying was investigated.Real-time UV-B and UV-A data were obtained using a high-performance spectroradiometer. During the first hour of sunlight exposure, the vitamin D2 content of the mushrooms increased in a linear manner, with concentrations increasing from 0.1 μg/g up to 3.9 ± 0.8 μg/g dry weight (DW). At the subsequent two measurements one and 3 h later, respectively, a plateau was reached. Two hours of additional exposure triggered a significant decline in vitamin D2 content. After just 15 min of sun exposure and an UV-B dose of 0.13 J/cm(2), the vitamin D2 content increased significantly to 2.2 ± 0.5 μg/g DW (P < 0.0001), which is equivalent to 17.6 μg (704 IU) vitamin D2 per 100 g of fresh mushrooms and comparable to levels found in fatty fish like the Atlantic salmon.

A mushroom-derived amino acid, ergothioneine, is a potential inhibitor of inflammation-related DNA halogenation

Myeloperoxidase (MPO)-generated halogenating molecules, such as hypochlorous acid and hypobromous acid (HOBr), in inflammatory regions are postulated to contribute to disease progression. In this study, we showed that ergothioneine (EGT), derived from an edible mushroom, inhibited MPO activity as well as the formation of 8-bromo-2'-deoxyguanosine in vitro. The HOBr scavenging effect of EGT is higher than those of ascorbic acid and glutathione. We initially observed that the administration of Coprinus comatus, an edible mushroom containing a high amount of EGT, inhibited the UV-B-induced inflammatory responses and DNA halogenation, suggesting that EGT is a promising anti-inflammatory agent from mushrooms.

Structural Characterization of Melanin Pigments from Commercial Preparations of the Edible Mushroom Auricularia auricula

Many of the most widely consumed edible mushrooms are pigmented, and these have been associated with some beneficial health effects. Nevertheless, the majority of the reported compounds associated with these desirable properties are non-pigmented. We have previously reported that melanin pigment from the edible mushroom Auricularia auricula can protect mice against ionizing radiation, although no physicochemical characterization was reported. Consequently, in this study we have characterized commercial A. auricula mushroom preparations for melanin content and carried out structural characterization of isolated insoluble melanin materials using a panel of sophisticated spectroscopic and physical/imaging techniques. Our results show that approximately 10% of the dry mass of A. auricula is melanin and that the pigment has physicochemical properties consistent with those of eumelanins, including hosting a stable free radical population. Electron microscopy studies show that melanin is associated with the mushroom cell wall in a manner similar to that of melanin from the model fungus C. neoformans. Elemental analysis of melanin indicated C, H, and N ratios consistent with 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid/5,6-dihydroxyindole and 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene eumelanin. Validation of the identity of the isolated product as melanin was achieved by EPR analysis. A. auricula melanin manifested structural differences, relative to the C. neoformans melanin, with regard to the variable proportions of alkyl chains or oxygenated carbons. Given the necessity for new oral and inexpensive radioprotective materials coupled with the commercial availability of A. auricula mushrooms, this product may represent an excellent source of edible melanin.