New research from the City of Hope Cancer Center has found that white button mushroom extract can slow prostate cancer progression.
The findings, published in Clinical and Translational Medicine, suggest that compounds in these mushrooms may support immune cells while slowing tumour growth.
Let’s break down what the research shows and what it means for you.
What Are White Button Mushrooms?
White button mushrooms, or Agaricus bisporus, are the most commonly consumed mushrooms in the UK.
They are widely available and often used in cooking due to their mild flavour and versatility.
However, their role may extend beyond the dinner table—they might have medicinal properties, especially in the fight against cancer.
The Research: Promising Early Results
Researchers at City of Hope are investigating plant and fungi-based substances, including white button mushrooms, for their potential to complement traditional cancer treatments.
In their trials, scientists studied how white button mushroom extract interacts with prostate cancer cells and the immune system.
Key Findings:
- Phase I Trial (main goal to assess safety):
- About 36% of participants experienced a decline in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels three months after taking white button mushroom tablets. PSA is a protein that, when elevated, may indicate prostate cancer.
- No significant side effects were reported.
- The extract reduced levels of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which typically suppress the immune system and support tumour growth.
- It increased activity in immune cells like T cells and natural killer cells, known for their ability to attack tumors.
- In mice, combining mushroom extract with immunotherapy extended survival times.
These findings indicate that white button mushrooms affect the immune system, thanks to naturally occurring polysaccharides called beta-glucans, which are found in manny mushroom species and are known to stimulate the immune system.
Why Prostate Cancer Research Matters
Prostate cancer remains one of the most common and deadly cancers in men.
While treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, researchers continue to explore new ways to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients.
White button mushrooms, as a natural and accessible food, could one day become a helpful addition to existing treatment strategies.
Other Mushrooms With Anti-Cancer Potential
Mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and modern science is uncovering their potential to support health, including anti-cancer properties.
Several mushrooms stand out for their ability to influence the immune system and support the body in fighting cancer. They include:
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)
Turkey tail is a colourful, fan-shaped mushroom that grows on tree bark.
It contains polysaccharide-K (PSK) and polysaccharopeptide (PSP), compounds known to stimulate the immune system.
PSK has been used in Japanese medicine since the 1980’s to treat several types of cancer.
PSP was discovered more recently in China and is considered a candidate with strong potential in drug development for the treatment and prevention of human cancers.
Studies have reported that PSP and PSK can inhibit the proliferation of leukaemia, lymphoma, hepatoma, breast, lung, and prostate tumour cell lines.
In mice studies, a water-based turkey tail extract was shown to decrease tumour weight by 36% and lung metastasis by 70.8% against untreated control.
Key Benefits:
- Immune Support: PSK and PSP enhance immune cell activity, including T cells and natural killer cells, which can help the body target cancer cells.
- Cancer Adjunct Therapy: In Japan, PSK is used alongside chemotherapy to improve survival rates in patients with gastric, colorectal, and breast cancers.
- Gut Health: Turkey tail also contains prebiotics, which support healthy gut bacteria, an important part of overall immunity.
Read: The Health Benefits Of Turkey Tail Mushroom
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi, also known as the “mushroom of immortality,” has a long history of use in Chinese medicine.
Its key active compounds include triterpenoids, beta-glucans, and polysaccharides.
Key Benefits:
- Immune Regulation: Reishi helps regulate immune responses, which can slow tumor growth.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: By reducing inflammation, reishi supports the body’s ability to fight disease.
- Studies on Cancer: Research suggests reishi may suppress the spread of cancer cells and reduce the size of certain tumours, particularly in breast and prostate cancers.
Read: 5 Science-Backed Benefits Of Reishi Mushroom
Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)
Cordyceps, a parasitic fungus, is known for its energy-boosting properties, but it also shows potential in cancer treatment.
Its active compounds include cordycepin, a molecule linked to anti-tumour effects.
Key Benefits:
- Cell Growth Control: Cordyceps may prevent cancer cells from dividing and spreading by interfering with their DNA and RNA production.
- Immune Enhancement: It can boost immune cell function, helping the body recognise and destroy abnormal cells.
- Oxygen Utilisation: By improving oxygen use at the cellular level, cordyceps may enhance overall health, especially during recovery.
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Lion’s mane is best known for supporting brain health, but its potential extends to cancer prevention and treatment.
It contains hericenones and erinacines, bioactive compounds with multiple health benefits.
Key Benefits:
- Cancer Cell Death: Some studies suggest lion’s mane may trigger apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain cancer cells.
- Immune Support: It promotes the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which help the immune system target harmful cells.
- Gastrointestinal Support: Lion’s mane shows promise in preventing cancer linked to the digestive system, such as stomach and colon cancer.
A Word of Caution
Despite the promising results, experts urge caution.
Dr. Xiaoqiang Wang, lead author of the recent study on button mushrooms, notes that mushroom extracts should not be considered a cure-all.
As research progresses, white button mushroom extract may become a recognised tool in the fight against prostate cancer.
But for now, adding these mushrooms to your meals is a safe, practical way to benefit from their nutrients.
Curious about the power of mushrooms? Explore our range of premium mushroom extracts, designed to support your health and well-being. Visit our products page to learn more.
Source: Reduction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in prostate cancer murine models and patients following white button mushroom treatment - Wang et al 10/10/2024
