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Relationship between selenium accumulation and mycelial cell composition in Lentinula edodes (Berk.) cultures
Jadwiga Turlo1, Bozenna Gutkowska, Franciszek Herold
1Department of Drug Technology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland. jadwiga.turlo@wum.edu.pl
Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part A
|August 14, 2010
Summary
Selenium enrichment of Lentinula edodes mycelium increased exopolysaccharide, polyphenol, and ergosterol content. This study identifies optimal selenium levels for producing potent, immunostimulatory selenated exopolysaccharides for potential cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Polysaccharides from Lentinula edodes mycelium are explored for cancer treatment.
- Selenium (Se) enrichment may enhance the biological activity of these compounds.
- Understanding Se's effect on mycelial composition is crucial for optimizing production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of varying selenium concentrations on Lentinula edodes mycelial composition.
- To determine the optimal Se concentration for producing bioactive, Se-enriched exopolysaccharides.
- To assess the relationship between Se accumulation and the content of key bioactive compounds.
Main Methods:
- Cultivating Lentinula edodes in media with sodium selenite (0-30 microg/ml).
- Measuring exopolysaccharide (EPS), chitin, ergosterol, polyphenols, and vitamin D2 content.
- Analyzing Se distribution and mycelial growth at different Se concentrations.
Main Results:
- EPS, polyphenolics, and ergosterol content increased with Se concentration.
- Chitin content initially rose with Se but decreased at higher concentrations (>5 microg/ml).
- Selenium significantly altered mushroom cell wall and membrane composition and polyphenol levels.
Conclusions:
- Selenium concentration in the culture medium potently affects Lentinula edodes cell composition.
- Optimal Se levels are identified for maximizing immunostimulatory-active selenated exopolysaccharides.
- These findings support the development of Se-enriched Lentinula edodes preparations for therapeutic applications.
