Mushroom Polysaccharides and Immunity
Mushroom polysaccharides (such as Coriolus versicolor PSK/PSP and yeast WGP) can help regulate the immune system,
support recovery after cancer treatment, enhance NK and T cell function, reduce treatment-related side effects, and improve quality of life.
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Why Should Cancer Survivors Care About Immunity?
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often weaken the immune system, particularly T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. Research shows that the faster immune recovery occurs, the higher the survival rate for cancer patients.
Immune-Modulating Effects of Mushroom Polysaccharides
Polysaccharides are special carbohydrates found in the cell walls of fungi. After ingestion, they interact with gut receptors and activate the immune system. The most studied examples include:
- Coriolus versicolor (Turkey Tail mushroom) PSK/PSP
- Yeast polysaccharide (WGP β-1,3/1,6-glucan)
- Other mushrooms: Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), Antrodia cinnamomea, Shiitake, Maitake
These compounds enhance the function of T cells, NK cells, and dendritic cells, strengthening immune surveillance and anti-tumor activity.
Clinical Trials and Evidence
- Coriolus versicolor PSK: Multiple trials in Japan have demonstrated improved survival and immune function in gastric, colorectal, and breast cancer patients.
- Yeast WGP: Human studies show reduced incidence of upper respiratory infections and improved efficacy of immunotherapy.
- Systematic reviews: Evidence suggests that Coriolus extracts improve quality of life and treatment tolerance in cancer patients.
Safety Profile
PSK/PSP are considered low-toxicity agents. Some patients may experience mild gastrointestinal effects such as diarrhea or nausea. Overall, mushroom polysaccharides are regarded as safe and supportive adjuncts to conventional cancer therapy.
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References
- Kidd, P. M. (2000). The use of mushroom glucans and proteoglycans in cancer treatment. Alternative Medicine Review, 5(1), 4–27.
- Gao, Y., Zhou, S., & Jiang, W. (2003). A phase I/II study of a Ganoderma lucidum (Ling Zhi) extract in patients with chronic hepatitis B. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 5(4), 321–327.
- Maehara, Y., et al. (2012). Clinical efficacy of protein-bound polysaccharide K (PSK) in gastric cancer patients. Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology, 69(5), 1183–1190.