White Button Mushrooms Could Enhance the Body’s Ability to Combat Cancer
Recent research has shown that soluble fibers in mushrooms have immune-boosting properties that could potentially prevent or delay the progression of prostate cancer.
Our everyday diet can play a role in fighting cancer.
Studies indicate that supplements derived from white button mushroom extracts could slow down the progression of cancer in patients with prostate cancer.
The research found that these supplements significantly reduced cells that hinder the body’s ability to fight cancer. Elevated levels of these cells in men with prostate cancer are linked to a poorer prognosis. Additionally, the supplements activated immune cells that combat tumors, such as T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells.
According to study author Shiuan Chen, a professor and chair of the Department of Cancer Biology and Molecular Medicine at the Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, integrating natural, food-based interventions could be beneficial in slowing down or halting the progression of cancer.
“Our study exemplifies integrative oncology, combining conventional treatments with evidence-based complementary approaches like natural products and mind-body practices,” Chen explained.
White Button Mushroom’s Anti-Cancer Mechanism
In a study published in Clinical and Translational Medicine in October, researchers from City of Hope investigated how dietary compounds in white button mushrooms interact with the immune system to slow down tumor growth in animals and humans.
Prostate cancer is considered an immunologically “cold” tumor as it lacks immune cell activity and has poor responsiveness to immunotherapies. The progression of this type of cancer is often associated with myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that hinder the body’s ability to attack tumors.
In a phase 1 trial conducted in 2015, researchers tested the effects of mushroom extract on 36 patients with prostate cancer. Patients who were given mushroom extract tablets daily for three months saw a decrease in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, indicating a slowdown in tumor growth. A reduction in MDSCs in the blood also suggested an enhanced immune response.
The mushroom extract doesn’t directly kill cancer cells but enhances the immune system’s response. Research showed that the extract improved cancer survival by boosting the immune system rather than attacking cancer cells directly.
According to researchers, the immune-boosting activity of white button mushrooms is attributed to its beta-glucan content.
Boosting Immunity in Mice
The white button mushroom extract reduced the number and activity of MDSCs in tumors and the bloodstream of mice. It also promoted the growth and multiplication of cancer-fighting T-cells in the mice, countering the suppressive effects of MDSCs.
The extract also enhanced the activity of cancer-fighting cells like CD8+ T-cells and NK cells while reducing the activity of pro-cancer genes in immune cells.
Anti-Cancer Effects in Humans
Building on findings from animal experiments and the phase 1 clinical trial, researchers examined the effects of mushroom supplements on prostate cancer patients. After three months of supplementation, blood samples showed a reduction in circulating MDSCs and increased activation of T-cells and NK cells, indicating a stronger immune response.
Co-author Dr. Xiaoqiang Wang emphasized the need for further research on different types of mushrooms to understand their specific benefits for prostate cancer.
While the exact amount of white button mushrooms needed for anti-cancer effects was not specified, incorporating a variety of mushrooms in a healthy diet was recommended. It is advised to consult a healthcare professional before starting any dietary supplements.
Aside from its effects on prostate cancer, mushroom supplements may have potential benefits for other types of cancer due to their immune-boosting properties. Combining the extract with immunotherapy in mice resulted in slower tumor growth compared to immunotherapy alone.
Chen mentioned ongoing trials investigating the use of white button mushroom for breast cancer prevention and the potential of using mushroom-based treatments in future cancer therapies.
