A GROUNDBREAKING study has revealed that white button mushrooms (WBM) may reduce immune suppression and enhance anti-cancer immune responses in patients with prostate cancer. This research provides insights into WBM’s potential as a nutraceutical intervention to slow PCa progression.
In a dual-phase investigation, researchers studied the effects of WBM consumption on both murine models and patients participating in a Phase II clinical trial. The findings revealed significant reductions in the number and function of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), immune cells known to hinder the body’s ability to fight cancer. These reductions were accompanied by increases in cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, which are crucial for anti-tumor immunity.
In preclinical mouse models, WBM treatment not only slowed tumor growth but also improved the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors, specifically anti-PD-1 antibodies. This combination therapy resulted in enhanced tumor regression and improved survival outcomes, suggesting that WBM could act as an effective adjuvant to immunotherapy in prostate cancer management.
The human arm of the study demonstrated similar immune-modulating effects. Patients treated with WBM for three months exhibited decreases in circulating polymorphonuclear MDSCs (PMN-MDSCs) and suppressed pro-tumor signaling pathways, including STAT3/IRF1 and TGFβ. Advanced single-cell profiling highlighted changes in the transcriptional profiles of PMN-MDSCs, pointing to reduced immune suppression and increased responsiveness to immune-stimulating signals.
The research underscores WBM’s potential to shift the immune environment in favor of anti-tumor activity. By targeting MDSCs and bolstering T cell and NK cell responses, WBM therapy offers a promising avenue for managing prostate cancer. While further studies are needed to confirm these findings, the integration of WBM into current treatment regimens could open new doors in cancer care.
This study represents a step forward in understanding how natural compounds can complement existing therapies, offering hope for improved outcomes in patients with prostate cancer.
Reference: Wang X et al. Reduction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in prostate cancer murine models and patients following white button mushroom treatment. Clin Transl Med. 2024;e70048.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
