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Antitumor Activity of Matsutake Polysaccharides and Organic Agaricus Blazei Mushroom Extract
Antitumor Activity
Matsutake, also known by its scientific name Tricholoma matsutake, belongs to the genus Tricholoma of the family Tricholomataceae. It is listed as a second-class endangered protected species in China and is a rare and precious natural medicinal edible fungus worldwide, enjoying the reputation of "the King of Fungi".Polysaccharides, also called glycans, refer to high-molecular compounds formed by the linkage of a large number of monosaccharides through glycosidic bonds. As a type of glycoside, polysaccharides can be hydrolyzed under certain conditions; during hydrolysis, they can be ultimately converted into monosaccharides through a series of chemical reactions. Matsutake polysaccharides are the main active substances in matsutake, with strong biological activities such as antitumor activity, immunomodulatory activity, whitening activity, hypoglycemic activity, and antioxidant activity.
Matsutake polysaccharides exhibit antitumor activity, and their mechanism of action is mainly achieved by regulating and enhancing the body’s immune system. Specifically, matsutake polysaccharides can activate immune cells, enhance their ability to recognize and kill tumor cells, thereby achieving the goal of anti-cancer and anti-tumor effects.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds that matsutake has a variety of effects, such as expelling parasites, relieving pain, strengthening the body, benefiting the stomach and intestines, and regulating qi to resolve phlegm. Modern medical research has not only confirmed some of the traditional effects of matsutake but also discovered new pharmacological effects, such as its ability to assist in the treatment of diabetes and its anti-cancer function. These studies provide a scientific basis for the clinical application of matsutake.
Research results by Liu Gang et al. show that matsutake polysaccharides can significantly inhibit the growth of tumor cells such as human liver cancer cells (HepG-2) and human cervical cancer cells (Hela), and induce the apoptosis of these tumor cells. In addition, in vivo experiments also show that matsutake polysaccharides can inhibit the growth of S180 sarcoma, while in vitro experiments indicate that they can promote the apoptosis of cervical cancer L929 cells.
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Applications
Drugs with matsutake as the main component have shown positive effects in inhibiting the growth and metastasis of cancer cells and help alleviate the adverse effects caused by chemotherapy.
Jing Li et al. developed a tablet rich in various active ingredients such as matsutake alcohol, double-chain matsutake polysaccharides, matsutake peptides, amino acids, and unsaturated fatty acids. It has been confirmed to enhance the immunity and antioxidant defense capabilities of patients with tumors, blood diseases, and other conditions, while effectively reducing the side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy
Xiao Junpei et al. developed a drug mainly composed of matsutake mycelium, Sanghuang (Inonotus obliquus) mycelium, and other ingredients. This drug can inhibit the spread and recurrence of cancer cells directly or indirectly, and may even promote the atrophy of cancer cells.
Wang Zeda created a TCM composition, which is made into capsules or liquid preparations and used for adjuvant cancer treatment to relieve symptoms.
Peng Baoming et al. studied a drug containing rare earth elements, Ganoderma lucidum, matsutake, Iphigenia indica, Xylaria nigripes, Polyporus umbellatus, astragalus polysaccharides, Poria cocos polysaccharides, and other substances. Clinical cases have confirmed that this drug has antitumor effects.
These research results collectively reveal the potential value of matsutake and its related preparations in the field of cancer treatment.