Therapeutic applications of Mushroom Bioactives in Oncology

Abstract

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, prompting continuous exploration of safer and more effective therapeutic strategies. Natural products have historically contributed significantly to cancer drug discovery, and medicinal mushrooms have emerged as promising sources of bioactive compounds with anticancer potential. This book chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic applications of mushroom-derived bioactives in oncology. It critically examines the nutritional composition of edible and medicinal mushrooms and highlights key bioactive constituents, including polysaccharides, β-glucans, terpenoids, lectins, polyphenols, and phenolic compounds, that exhibit anticancer properties. Evidence from in vitro studies, animal models, and selected clinical trials is discussed to elucidate the mechanisms through which these compounds exert antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of mushrooms in the management of breast, lung, colon, liver, and prostate cancers. The chapter also addresses emerging approaches such as mushroom-mediated nanoparticle synthesis and immune checkpoint modulation. While current findings demonstrate encouraging therapeutic potential and favorable safety profiles, limitations related to clinical validation are acknowledged. Overall, this review underscores the significance of mushroom bioactives as complementary agents in cancer therapy and highlights future research directions necessary for their translation into clinical oncology.