Podkarpackie/ Chaga mushroom substances may help in the treatment of cancer

Scientists from the University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszów have patented a method for extracting active substances from a tree fungus called Chaga mushroom. These substances may find applications in supporting cancer treatment and in preparations that soothe skin inflammation.

As the university announced, the patent was granted by the Patent Office of the Republic of Poland.

"The subject of the invention is a method for extracting active substances from chaga mushroom ( Inonotus obliquus ). Research has shown that individual extraction methods allow for obtaining extracts with different contents of active substances, i.e. polysaccharides, polyphenols, tri- and diterpenoids, and dyes," we read in the information sent to PAP.

As emphasized by Prof. Dr. hab. Konrad Szychowski from the Department of Biotechnology and Cell Biology at WSIiZ, quoted in the press release, the patented extraction method allows for obtaining a powdered substance with the most favorable biological properties.

“Thanks to this, the substance can be used to support the treatment of cancer and in preparations that soothe skin inflammation,” he added.

The subcortical gleaning fungus ( Inonotus obliquus ) is a parasitic fungus from the family Inonotus obliquus, causing intense white rot of wood.

As the scientists noted, it is rich in active substances, mainly in the form of polysaccharides, polyphenols, triterpenoids, diterpenoids, and pigments. It inhibits inflammatory processes, exhibits liver-protective properties, and is beneficial in daily skin care and skin conditions.

According to the university, infusions and tinctures prepared by macerating the dried fruiting bodies of the mushroom in water and ethanol were particularly popular in folk medicine. Their use was primarily related to gastrointestinal ailments, such as aiding digestion and treating abdominal pain, but also as substances to soothe skin lesions, including those of cancerous origin.

The project entitled "Method of extracting active substances from Chaga mushroom" was carried out as part of a grant competition organized by the Podkarpackie Center of Innovation.

In addition to Professor Szychowski, the team that implemented the project also included Dr. Bartosz Skóra, Urszula Binduga, MA, and WSIiZ Professor Tadeusz Pomianek. (PAP)

Science in Poland

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