2023-07-18 21:04:53
Title: Some Mushrooms Found to Prevent Cell Mutations Resembling Cancer, Says Study from Wageningen University
Date: 07/18/2023
By: Bjarne Kommnick
Wageningen – Researchers from Wageningen University have made a groundbreaking discovery that certain species of fungi possess the ability to prevent cell mutations resembling cancer, according to a study published in the journal Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews. While mushrooms have been linked to causing cancer, this new finding opens up possibilities for the potential use of fungi in human cancer treatment.
The research team at Wageningen University found that fungi consist of a network of filaments known as mycelium, which contains cells with single nuclei. These nuclei, referred to as “haploid,” resemble human sperm or egg cells. Unlike humans, fungi reproduce asexually through the fusion of these half-set nuclei. However, mutations in these nuclei can lead to uncontrolled growth, akin to cancer in humans and plants.
The study revealed that certain types of fungi possess mechanisms to prevent such mutations. When mutations occur, they prevent the fusion of mycelial filaments, inhibiting spore production and asexual reproduction. This unique mechanism, known as clamp joints, keeps individual nuclei in separate compartments, allowing them to assess their genetic quality before fusion occurs. This safeguard helps specific species of fungi to protect themselves and live exceptionally long lives.
Duur Aanen, co-author of the study and a researcher at Wageningen University, explained, “The clamp connection acts as a test device for the quality of the cell nucleus, with both nuclei continuously testing each other’s ability to fuse, a test that nuclei with mutations in fusion genes fail.” Aanen emphasized that mycelia have a low risk of developing nuclear cancer due to this constant quality assessment, regardless of their size and lifespan.
These findings not only shed light on how fungi protect themselves against mutations but also have implications for cancer research in humans. Certain types of fungi are already being utilized in cancer therapy, with the active ingredient cordycepin from mushrooms such as Reishi, Fu Ling, and Cordyceps sinensis showing promise in killing tumor cells in laboratory tests. However, it is yet to be determined whether these active ingredients can be safely and effectively used in human treatment.
While there is growing interest in cancer treatment with mushrooms, experts caution against self-therapy with mushroom extracts and emphasize the importance of conventional medical treatments. The consumer advice center warns that mushroom therapy should not replace necessary medical interventions, particularly for those taking medication or undergoing chemotherapy.
The discovery of the fungi’s ability to prevent cell mutations resembling cancer marks a significant breakthrough in our understanding of both the fungi world and cancer treatment possibilities. As research continues, scientists are hopeful that further exploration of these mechanisms will lead to new and improved cancer therapies for humans.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before embarking on any treatment plans.]
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