Shiitake research

Preliminary laboratory research has indicated shiitake mushroom may stimulate the immune system, possess antibacterial properties, reduce platelet aggregation, and possess antiviral properties, possibly through proteinase inhibitors. Shiitake dermatitis Consumption of raw or slightly cooked shiitake mushrooms can cause "an erythematous, micro-papular, streaky, extremely pruriginous rash" that occurs all over the body including face and scalp, which appears about 48 hours after consumption and disappears after 10 days. This effect, caused by the toxin lentinan, is well known in Asia, but can be unfamiliar to European physicians. It occurs in roughly 1 in 50 people, and thorough cooking eliminates the effect. Shiitake isolate AHCC Active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) is an α-glucan-rich compound isolated from shiitake. In Japan, AHCC is the second most popular complementary and alternative medicine usedShiitake lentinan Lentinan, a compound isolated from shiitake, is used as an intravenous anticancer agent in some countries. Laboratory studies showed that lentinan may have antitumor properties, whereas preliminary clinical studies indicated lentinan may affect survival rate, quality of life, and cancer recurrence. by cancer patients. and is metabolized via the CYP450 2D6 pathway. Research using animal models has shown that AHCC may increase the body's resistance to pathogens as shown in experiments with the influenza virus, West Nile encephalitis virus, and bacterial infection.Animal research and limited clinical trials suggest that AHCC may enhance immune function. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 21 people provided preliminary evidence that AHCC may enhance immune function.Other basic research has shown that AHCC may affect hepatocellular carcinoma and prostate cancer.