## White Button Mushrooms: A Fresh Player in Prostate Cancer Therapy?
– **Journal**: Clinical and Translational Medicine, October 10, 2024
– **DOI**: [10.1002/ctm2.70048](https://clinicaltranslationalmedicine.com)
– **Reading time**: 4 minutes
**Summary**:
In an innovative study that merges preclinical findings with clinical trials, researchers at *City of Hope* have discovered that white button mushrooms, a widely consumed food item, could delay the advancement of prostate cancer. The research indicated that these mushrooms reduce certain immune cells that facilitate cancer spread, while enhancing immune cells that combat the disease.
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### From Culinary Use to Oncology
The white button mushroom (*Agaricus bisporus*)—a humble favorite in numerous global cuisines—might offer more than just flavor. Fresh investigations from *City of Hope* have unveiled its possible role in effectively addressing prostate cancer by influencing the immune system to hinder cancer proliferation.
“City of Hope researchers are exploring foods such as white button mushrooms, grape seed extract, pomegranate, blueberries, and Jamun (purple berries) for their health benefits,” stated Shiuan Chen, Ph.D., the principal author of the study and a faculty member at the institution. “We are uncovering the ways specific plant-based compounds could bolster standard cancer treatment and prevention strategies.”
### Delving into the Mechanism
Central to the study is the ability of white button mushrooms to diminish levels of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which are associated with cancer advancement. MDSCs are crucial in enabling tumors to evade the immune response, thereby fostering metastasis and complicating treatment outcomes.
Through experiments conducted on mice, the researchers noted that treatment with white button mushroom extract significantly inhibited tumor development and improved survival rates. The standout result? The extract enhanced the immune response by reducing MDSC counts and stimulating T cells—vital components in the fight against cancer.
### From Research to Human Testing
The encouraging outcomes observed in mice transitioned into human trials. In a phase 2 clinical trial, prostate cancer patients received white button mushroom extract as a supplement. After three months, blood tests revealed significant changes: participants experienced a reduction in tumor-promoting immune cells (including MDSCs) and an increase in T cells and *natural killer (NK)* cells that target cancer.
Xiaoqiang Wang, M.D., Ph.D., the lead author of the study, urges prudence amid these promising findings: “While our results are inspiring, we caution against self-medicating with over-the-counter mushroom supplements without professional guidance. The supplements available online are not FDA-approved and using them without advice may carry risks.”
Wang noted that this research emphasizes the opportunities available through integrative oncology—a field that incorporates naturally sourced therapies alongside standard cancer interventions like radiation and chemotherapy.
### Glossary of Key Terms
– **Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs)**: Immune cells that facilitate cancer progression by inhibiting the body’s standard immune responses.
– **T cells**: A category of white blood cells vital for the destruction of cancer cells.
– **Natural killer cells**: A type of immune cell capable of eliminating cancerous or infected cells via apoptosis (programmed cell death).
– **Integrative oncology**: An approach that merges traditional cancer treatments with scientifically validated natural therapies to enhance results.
– **Phase 2 clinical trial**: A stage of clinical research aimed at evaluating the treatment’s effectiveness in a broader patient cohort after initial safety has been established.
### Implications for Prostate Cancer Patients
The study’s conclusions point to the potential for white button mushrooms to play a role in integrative cancer treatment, offering a natural, non-toxic complement to standard therapies. The fusion of a commonly available food source with contemporary medical practices may revolutionize the management of prostate cancer in the years to come.
Although white button mushrooms have demonstrated encouraging effects on slowing cancer progression, further research is necessary. Thorough clinical trials will be critical in assessing the long-term safety and effectiveness of these findings.
### Quiz
1. **What type of cells does white button mushroom treatment lower?**
**Answer**: Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs).
2. **What positive immune system change was recorded during the study?**
**Answer**: Increased numbers of cancer-fighting T and natural killer cells.
3. **What was the duration of supplement intake before observing results?**
**Answer**: Three months.
4. **What should individuals refrain from doing according to the researchers?**
**Answer**: Self-prescribing mushroom supplements without consulting a healthcare professional.
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### A Note of Caution
While this research presents a