Lentinan progress in inflammatory diseases and tumor diseases

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Pharmacology
• Immunology

Background:

• Shiitake mushrooms contain Lentinan (LNT), a compound with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties.
• Inflammatory diseases and cancers are leading global causes of mortality with limited effective treatments.
• LNT is approved as an adjunct therapy in China and Japan, demonstrating potential in oncological and inflammatory conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms and clinical applications of Lentinan (LNT) in treating inflammatory and cancerous diseases.
• To elucidate the signaling pathways involved in LNT's therapeutic effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on Lentinan (LNT).
• Analysis of clinical trials investigating LNT's efficacy and safety.
• Examination of molecular mechanisms underlying LNT's action.

Main Results:

• LNT exhibits significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activities.
• Clinical studies show LNT enhances chemotherapy efficacy, improves prognosis, boosts immunity, and reduces side effects in lung, colorectal, and gastric cancers.
• LNT plays a crucial role in managing inflammatory and oncological diseases.

Conclusions:

• Lentinan (LNT) is a promising therapeutic agent for inflammatory and cancerous diseases.
• Further research into LNT's signaling pathways is warranted to optimize its clinical use.
• LNT offers a valuable adjunct therapy, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.