Search Results (41)

Background/Objectives: Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst. (commonly known as reishi mushroom), a well-characterized medicinal fungus, contains diverse bioactive metabolites. This study aimed to fractionate, characterize and identify the biologically active inhibitors present in G. lucidum and to evaluate their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic activities. Methods: The ethanol extract of G. lucidum was fractionated using column chromatography, yielding ten distinct fractions (designated as A, B, E, F, K, L, M, N, O, and P based on their elution order and visual characteristics). Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis identified 46 bioactive compounds, including terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Results: Among the fractions, Fraction L exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity, with an IC₅₀ of 1.59 mg/mL. Fraction O displayed significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 (24.4 ± 0.238 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883 (20.5 ± 0.035 mm), Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 (8 ± 0.176 mm), and Staphylococcus warneri ATCC 10209 (20 ± 0.080 mm). Regarding antidiabetic activity, Fraction B demonstrated the strongest inhibition of α-amylase (IC₅₀ 1.69 ± 0.03 mg/mL), while Fraction E showed the strongest α-glucosidase inhibition (IC₅₀ = 1.69 ± 0.02 mg/mL), demonstrating reciprocal selectivity between enzyme targets. Conclusions: These results establish that chromatographic fractionation concentrates specific bioactivities into distinct fractions, supporting its potential for the development of novel therapeutic agents with enhanced specificity and efficacy. Full article

Ganoderma is a genus of medically significant fungi, that is used in traditional medicine and is increasingly incorporated into modern nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. Accurate species identification and product standardization remain major challenges due to morphological plasticity and cryptic diversity. This review articulates current advances in Ganoderma systematics, phylogenetics, and metabolomics, with an emphasis on molecular identification strategies and chemical profiling. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing has substantially improved species delineation compared with morphology alone, but its resolving power is limited in closely related species complexes, necessitating complementary multilocus approaches. Advances in metabolomics, and LC-MS- and HPLC-based profiling of triterpenes and polysaccharides, have enhanced species discrimination, chemotaxonomic resolution, and quality control of commercial products. Integrating molecular barcoding with metabolomic fingerprints provides a more robust framework for classification, pharmacological evaluation, and standardization. This review also highlights significant geographic knowledge gaps, particularly in Africa, where molecular and metabolomic data remain scarce despite high species diversity. Full article

Mushroom coffee—blends of coffee with “functional” mushroom powders—has surged in popularity, yet its hemostatic effects are poorly appreciated in perioperative care. We report a postoperative hemorrhage likely potentiated by a commercial mushroom coffee. A 62-year-old man with HIV, hepatitis C, and insulin-treated diabetes underwent colostomy reversal. On postoperative day 9, he developed brisk bleeding at the colonic anastomosis requiring angiography and embolization. Recurrent hemorrhage prompted a detailed supplement history, revealing daily use of mushroom coffee for two months preoperatively. The product’s labeled ingredients include an organic mushroom blend of cordyceps, lion’s mane (Hericium), reishi (Ganoderma), shiitake, turkey tail, and king trumpet, combined with arabica coffee, MCT oil, and coconut milk. Several constituents—reishi, cordyceps, lion’s mane, and chaga (Inonotus obliquus, used in some mushroom blends)—have published antiplatelet or antithrombotic activity in vitro and/or in vivo. After counseling, the patient discontinued mushroom coffee; no further bleeding occurred, and he recovered without additional intervention. This case highlights a clinically important but underrecognized risk: mushroom-based beverages can exert antiplatelet effects comparable to herbal supplements traditionally flagged in preoperative screening. We recommend that preoperative medication reconciliation explicitly query mushroom coffees and “adaptogenic” blends and that such products be held similarly to other agents with antiplatelet properties. Greater awareness among surgeons, anesthesiologists, and internists is needed as functional foods proliferate. Controlled studies are warranted to quantify bleeding risk from multi-mushroom products and to inform evidence-based perioperative guidance Full article

The commercialization of direct urea fuel cells (DUFCs) is hampered by the scarcity of low-cost, high-performance electrocatalysts for the urea oxidation reaction (UOR), while water treatment processes generate spent adsorbents as a secondary waste. This study presents a circular economy solution by transforming a waste product—spent progesterone-loaded Reishi mushroom biosorbents—into high-performance anodes for DUFCs. We demonstrate that the thermal conversion of Ganoderma lucidum into biochar (Biochar/RM), followed by its “activation” through progesterone (PG) adsorption, creates a superior electrocatalytic composite (Biochar/RM/PG). Electrochemical evaluation revealed that this spent adsorbent delivers an exceptional UOR activity, achieving a peak current density of 225.52 mA cm⁻², which is 79% higher than its pristine counterpart. This enhancement is driven by a unique synergy: the biochar provides a conductive, porous framework, while the thermally transformed PG acts as an in situ dopant, creating nitrogen-rich active sites and optimizing the surface architecture for urea electro-oxidation. The catalyst further demonstrated remarkable operational stability over 3600 s. This work establishes a pioneering “waste-to-wealth” strategy, simultaneously addressing the challenges of pharmaceutical wastewater management and the need for sustainable energy materials. Full article

Medicinal mushrooms are recognised as a source of bioactive polysaccharides and proteins with potential health benefits. This study presents the first comparative evaluation of wheat bread fortified with powdered fruiting bodies of three medicinal mushroom species: Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane), Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), and Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Cordyceps). Wheat flour was partially substituted at levels of 3–12%, and the resulting breads were analysed for (1→3)(1→6)-β-D-glucan content as well as in vitro protein and starch digestibility. Mushroom enrichment significantly increased β-glucan concentration in bread, with the greatest enhancement observed for 12% Reishi substitution (5.67% d.m.). Starch digestibility decreased across all fortified breads, accompanied by a substantial increase in resistant starch, particularly for Reishi bread (+427% relative to control). Protein digestibility was also reduced, most prominently in Cordyceps bread (−32.7 percentage points), although these products still provided up to ~52% more total protein than the control. The results confirm that incorporating medicinal mushrooms into wheat bread effectively increases its content of bioactive components, such as β-glucans, resistant starch and protein, indicating its potential as a nutrient-enriched bakery product with improved functional value. Full article

Natural materials present sustainable opportunities in architectural design, but often lack the aesthetic controllability associated with synthetic alternatives. This research explores the bio-aesthetic potential of mycelium-bound composites (MBCs) cultivated from Ganoderma Steyaertanum (Reishi mushroom), focusing on how external stimuli and surface treatments influence material expression. This investigation was carried out through interdisciplinary collaboration involving design, architecture, and material science. Two post-demolding surface treatment strategies were applied to MBC samples: ‘Delayed Growth‘ and ‘Accelerated Growth‘. These treatments were designed to assess the mycelium’s responsiveness in terms of colour and texture development. A controlled set of samples was analysed using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and hydrophobicity testing to evaluate changes in microstructure, chemical composition, and surface properties. The results demonstrate that mycelium exhibits a measurable capacity for aesthetic adaptation, with distinct variations in pigmentation and texture emerging under different treatment conditions. These findings highlight the potential for co-creative design processes with living materials and offer new insights into the integration of biological responsiveness in design practices. The study contributes to the advancement of sustainable material systems and expands the possibilities for bio-design through controlled interaction with bio-materials. Full article

Liver fibrosis remains difficult to treat, in part because many hepatoprotective triterpenoids suffer from poor oral bioavailability and lack of optimized delivery formats. Ganoderma amboinense is a rare “antler” reishi species long valued in Eastern traditions yet scarcely studied for its phytochemical and pharmacological potential. Here, we report the first investigation of an ethanol-extracted G. amboinense sublingual dripping pill formulation (GDP) in a carbon-tetrachloride (CCl₄)–induced mouse model of liver fibrosis. Mice treated with GDP at one- and five-times the human equivalent dose were compared to groups receiving unprocessed G. amboinense powder (GP) or purified ganoderic acid A (GA-A). GDP significantly prevented CCl₄-induced weight loss and hepatomegaly, normalizing liver-to-body weight ratios and serum AST/ALT activities (p < 0.05). Histological evaluation showed that GDP markedly reduced hepatocellular necrosis and collagen deposition, restoring tissue architecture. Furthermore, GDP suppressed hepatic expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, COX-2) and profibrotic markers (TGF-β1, CTGF, α-SMA) to levels comparable with or superior to GA-A. These results demonstrate that a dripping pill dosage form can effectively deliver G. amboinense triterpenoids and unlock their hepatoprotective activity, supporting further development of GDP as a novel liver-support nutraceutical. Full article

Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum), commonly known as Reishi or Lingzhi, is a medicinal mushroom with a rich history in traditional Asian medicine. This review examines diverse bioactive components supporting therapeutic properties, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds, fatty acids, peptides and proteins, vitamins, minerals, and sterols. The mushroom offers numerous health benefits, including immunomodulation, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, liver protection, and anti-cancer activities. In addition, it shows potential in managing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and viral infections. Advances in extraction technologies, such as ultrasound and microwave-assisted methods, have improved the bioavailability and efficacy of compounds. While G. lucidum is an excellent functional food and therapeutic agent it remains an unexploited source of nutrients. Further research is needed to optimize the industrial applications and evaluate the safety in specific populations. Full article

Electrospinning is a technique to produce nanofiber mats for diverse applications. In biomedicine in particular, the addition of an antibacterial agent can be advantageous. Here, we report on the needleless electrospinning of nanofiber mats using poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) blended with different mushroom mycelium powders, which have antibacterial and other functional properties. While PAN blended with Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushroom) powder could be electrospun well, PAN blended with Ganoderma lucidum (reishi mushroom) powder was nearly impossible to spin. The PAN/P. ostreatus nanofiber mats showed a morphology after electrospinning similiar to pure PAN; however, the carbon yield was lower. This indicates the possibility of embedding P. ostreatus powder in PAN nanofiber mats for biotechnological or biomedical applications. Full article

Background: Ganoderma lucidum (GL), commonly known as the “Lingzhi” or “Reishi” mushroom, has long been recognized for its potential health benefits and medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine. The unique potential combination of bioactive compounds present in GL, such as triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and peptides, has inspired interest in leveraging their therapeutic potential In recent years, the emerging field of nanotechnology has opened up new possibilities for using the remarkable properties of GL at the nanoscale. Objetive: The main objective of this review is to explore the unique potential of GL in traditional and innovative therapies, particularly in cancer treatment, and to assess how nanotechnology-based strategies can enhance its therapeutic applications.is to explore. Results: Nanotechnology-based strategies have been investigated for the efficient extraction and purification of bioactive compounds from GL. Additionally, nanocarriers and nanoformulations have been developed to protect these sensitive bioactive compounds from degradation, ensuring their stability during storage and transportation. The use of GL-based nanomaterials has shown promising results in several biomedical applications, namely due to their anticancer activity by targeting cancer cells, inducing apoptosis, and inhibiting tumor growth. Conclusions: The combination of GL and nanotechnology presents an exciting frontier in the development of novel therapeutic and biomedical applications. Nevertheless, further research and development in this interdisciplinary field are warranted to fully exploit the synergistic benefits offered by GL and nanotechnology. Future prospects include the development of robust clinical trials focused on GL nanotechnology-based cancer therapies to clarify mechanisms of actions and optimize formulations, ultimately leading to innovative solutions for human health and well-being. Full article

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is an increasingly used natural product in botanical dietary supplements, valued for its bioactive compounds. However, inconsistent standardized analytical methods raise concerns over product authenticity, mislabeling, and quality control. This study employs a multi-analytical approach to differentiate wildcrafted chaga canker from North American chaga dietary supplements, particularly those containing mycelia fermented grain products. High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), Liquid Chromatography with Evaporative Light Scattering Detection (LC-ELSD) or Photo/Diode Array Detection (LC-PDA/DAD), Liquid Chromatography-Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (LC-QToF-MS), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, and iodine-starch assays were used to evaluate key markers, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and melanin. Whole chaga canker contained triterpenoids (inotodiol, trametenolic acid) and phenolics, like osmundacetone, while melanin absorbance at 500 nm differentiated it from fermented grain products. β-Glucan quantification and iodine-starch assays confirmed starch-rich composition in fermented grains and its absence in authentic chaga canker. NMR fingerprinting and LC-QToF-MS metabolomics demonstrated stark compositional deviations between wildcrafted chaga canker, I. obliquus mycelium, and fermented grain products. By integrating complementary techniques, we establish a framework that can reliably distinguish genuine chaga canker from misrepresented products, ensuring consumer safety and fostering trust in the functional mushroom, canker, and mycelium markets. Full article

Cellular senescence plays a crucial role in skin aging, with senescent dermal fibroblasts contributing to reduced skin elasticity and increased inflammation. This study investigated the potential of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) ethanol extract to modulate the senescent phenotype of human dermal fibroblasts. Reishi powder of two different vendors was used. The extract was produced by extracting the Reishi powder for at least three weeks in 40% ethanol at room temperature. Etoposide-induced senescent fibroblasts were treated with Reishi extracts from two commercial sources for 14 days. Gene expression analysis was performed using qPCR to assess senescence makers, antioxidant defense, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Results showed that Reishi extracts significantly upregulated antioxidant and cytoprotective genes, including Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), γ-Glutamylcysteine synthetase (γGCS-L), and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 (NQO1), compared to untreated controls. Importantly, Reishi treatment suppressed the expression of p16^INK4a, a key marker of cellular senescence, while transiently upregulating p21^Cip1. The extracts also demonstrated potential senolytic properties, reducing the percentage of senescent cells as measured by senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining. However, Reishi treatment did not mitigate the upregulation of MMP1 and IL-8 in one Reishi treatment group, indicating differences in the preparations of different vendors. These findings suggest that Ganoderma lucidum extract may help alleviate some aspects of cellular senescence in dermal fibroblasts, primarily through enhanced antioxidant defense and cytoprotection, potentially offering a novel approach to combat skin aging. Full article

Mushrooms are indeed gaining attention for their unique therapeutic and nutritional qualities, especially in fermented drinks. This trend builds on their historical use in traditional medicine, especially within Eastern practices, where mushrooms like reishi, chaga, shiitake, oyster, lion’s mane, and cordyceps are known for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties. This narrative review highlights the growing interest in the use of mushrooms as functional ingredients in fermented beverages, emphasizing their technological and functional advantages. Fermentation significantly enhances the nutritional content and bioavailability of mushrooms, making it an ideal method to maximize the health benefits and sensory appeal of mushroom-based beverages. Microbial activity breaks down complex compounds in mushrooms, making their bioactive components more accessible for absorption; bringing unique flavors, aromas, and textures; and creating a rich-sensory experience while offering potential health benefits. Mushrooms can also improve the stability and shelf life of fermented beverages due to the presence of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds, adding another valuable benefit to their use in functional beverages. However, despite their potential, further research is needed to fully understand their impact on health and to refine production techniques for optimal quality and consistency. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of mushroom-fermented beverages, highlighting both the known benefits and research gaps that require further investigation. Given the early stage of this field, the review emphasizes the importance of the additional investigation to unlock the full potential of mushrooms in functional beverage applications. Full article

In the present work, we studied the interactions of three types of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) with human serum albumin (HSA) by fluorescence and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The determined binding parameters of the reactions and the thermodynamic parameters, including ΔHo, ΔSo, and ΔGo indicated that electrostatic forces play a major role in the interaction of IONPs with HSA. These measurements indicate a fluorescent quenching mechanism based on IONPs-HSA static complex formation. Our study shows that the interaction between HSA and IONPs depends on the nanoparticle structure. The interaction between IONPs and HSA was found to be spontaneous, exothermic, and entropy-driven. HSA was shown to interact moderately with IONPs obtained with plant extracts of Uncaria tomentosa L. (IONP@UT) and Clinopodium vulgare L. (IONP@CV), and firmly with IONPs prepared with Ganoderma lingzhi (Reishi) extract (IONP@GL), via ground-state association. Analysis by modified Stern-Volmer approximation indicates that the quenching mechanism is static. Our study significantly improves our understanding of the mechanisms of interaction, distribution, and transport involved in the interaction between proteins and IONPs. It provides crucial insights into the functional perturbations of albumin binding capacity and the effects of IONPs on the stability and structural modifications of plasma carrier proteins. Full article

This study explores the incorporation of Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst. (Reishi mushroom) into wheat bread to develop a functional food with enhanced nutritional value. Reishi powder was added to bread formulations at levels of 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% to assess its effects on physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory properties. The 12% Reishi supplementation resulted in a twofold increase in total dietary fibre (from 7.21 g to 17.08 g per 100 g dry matter) and significant (p < 0.05) elevations in mineral content, particularly calcium (68%), iron (32%), and manganese (61.9%). Carbohydrate content decreased markedly by 27%, contributing to a 19.33% reduction in caloric value. Reishi addition improved bread yield and reduced baking losses, enhancing production efficiency. However, higher Reishi levels negatively impacted bread volume, possibly due to interference with gluten network formation. An increase in crumb moisture was observed, contributing to extended freshness. Sensory evaluation revealed that loaves of bread containing up to 6% Reishi were acceptable to consumers, whereas higher levels detrimentally affected flavour and aroma. Therefore, Reishi-enriched bread, particularly with 6% supplementation, presents a promising functional alternative to conventional wheat bread, optimising nutritional benefits while maintaining consumer acceptability. Full article