Ganoderma lucidum: A Medicinal Mushroom with Prebiotic and Anticancer Potential in Gastrointestinal Cancers

Ganoderma lucidum is considered a medicinal mushroom, as it primarily improves gut health by modulating the gut microbiota. As an abundant source of bioactive metabolites, antioxidants, and industrial enzymes, mushrooms make significant contributions to functional foods, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals. Polysaccharides derived from G. lucidum exhibit prebiotic potential, promoting the growth and activity of beneficial gut microorganisms.

This review examines the impact of white rot basidiomycetes metabolites on colorectal cancer treatment. We have compiled and analyzed data from PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate, presenting a comprehensive report with a table for clear understanding.

Evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrates that G. lucidum has potential as a gastrointestinal cancer inhibitor by inducing pro-apoptosis, autophagy, G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, and immunomodulation.

Bioactive metabolites and polysaccharides have prebiotic potential, enhancing the growth and activity of beneficial gut microorganisms that may lower the risk of gastrointestinal cancers by modifying gut bacteria. The prebiotic properties may boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and strengthen intestinal barrier integrity.

The current review explores the therapeutic potential of G. lucidum and other medicinal mushrooms as dietary supplements, focusing on their impact on the gut microbiome and gastrointestinal cancer.