Mycelial antineoplastic activity of Agaricus blazei

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Pharmacology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Basidiocarp of Agaricus blazei is recognized for its antineoplastic properties, commonly consumed as teas or capsules.
• Limited research exists on the potential of Agaricus blazei mycelium for similar therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antineoplastic activity of two Agaricus blazei mycelium preparations against sarcoma 180 cells in mice.
• To compare the efficacy of mycelial preparations with established treatments and green tea extract.

Main Methods:

• Agaricus blazei mycelia were cultivated in Pontecorvo medium with varying concentrations of isolated soy protein (ISP).
• Mycelial hot water extract and moistened mycelial powder were prepared and administered orally to mice bearing sarcoma 180 tumors.
• Antineoplastic activity was assessed by comparing treatments including Ifosfamide (positive control) and saline (negative control).

Main Results:

• Both Agaricus blazei strains exhibited comparable antineoplastic activity, with mycelial hot water extract showing high efficacy.
• Mycelial hot water extract demonstrated high antineoplastic activity with minimal spleen metabolic demand and maintained normal blood parameters.
• The antineoplastic effect of mycelial hot water extract was comparable to that of green tea extract and the basidiocarp.
• Mycelial growth in different ISP concentrations did not affect antineoplastic activity.

Conclusions:

• Agaricus blazei vegetative mycelium, especially the hot water extract, is as effective as the basidiocarp for inhibiting sarcoma 180 tumors.
• Mycelial hot water extract presents a promising alternative for antineoplastic therapy due to its efficacy and favorable safety profile.
• Further research into mycelial preparations of Agaricus blazei for cancer treatment is warranted.