Polysaccharides from Agaricus bisporus and Agaricus brasiliensis show similarities in their structures and their immunomodulatory effects on human monocytic THP-1 cells
2011

Mushroom Polysaccharides and Their Effects on Immune Cells

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Fhernanda R Smiderle, Andrea C Ruthes, Jeroen van Arkel, Wasaporn Chanput, Marcello Iacomini, Harry J Wichers, Leo JLD van Griensven

Primary Institution: Plant Research International, Wageningen University and Research

Hypothesis

What are the immunomodulatory effects of polysaccharides from Agaricus bisporus and Agaricus brasiliensis on human monocytic THP-1 cells?

Conclusion

Polysaccharide extracts from Agaricus bisporus and Agaricus brasiliensis can stimulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, with A. brasiliensis also reducing cytokine synthesis induced by LPS.

Supporting Evidence

  • A. bisporus has high mannogalactan content while A. brasiliensis has mostly β-glucan.
  • Both extracts stimulated the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in THP-1 cells.
  • A. brasiliensis extract reduced the synthesis of cytokines induced by LPS.

Takeaway

Mushrooms can help our immune system by making it stronger and can even calm it down when it's too active.

Methodology

Polysaccharide extracts were prepared from mushrooms and their effects on THP-1 cells were analyzed using qPCR to measure cytokine production.

Limitations

The study may not account for all variables affecting immune response in vivo.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p < 0.001

Statistical Significance

p < 0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6882-11-58

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