Mushroom biomass: Some clinical implications of β-glucans and enzymes

Mushrooms have attracted market attention because they are a potential source of bioactive compounds able to perform several functions in organisms with benefits for the health of the consumer. Cultivation processes vary according a) industrial fermentation - in large vats to produce extracted form of mushrooms or b) closed cultivation system - individually grown in jars on an aseptic “substrate” with controlled lighting and irrigation to produce a biomass form of mushrooms. Biomass is the mycelium with primordia (young fruiting body - before the mushroom blooms) containing all the nutrients and active compounds, including β-glucans, enzymes and secondary metabolites. The classification of mushroom biomass varies according to the presentation; the biomass can be classified as a “food” if in powder form or, classified as a “dietary supplement” in tablet form. While tablet mushroom biomass is considered a dietary supplement, mushroom extracts are designated pharmaceutical compounds, pharmanutrients or nutraceuticals. Here we illustrate the difference between mushrooms in the biomass and extract forms, the similarities and differences on its content on enzymes, secondary metabolites and on β-glucans, as a soluble and fermentable fibre. Of particular note is the rich enzyme activity in the biomass form of mushrooms. Such activity includes enzymes that prevent oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase), enzymes that prevent cellular growth (protease, glucoamylase) and enzymes that promote detoxification (cytochrome P-450, peroxidase, glucose-2-oxidase). β-glucans have been proposed to act as “biological response modifiers” based on their effects on the immune system, and its role in the prevention and treatment of various metabolic syndrome-linked diseases. This review focuses also on some described health-promoting potential of mushroom biomass, all through immunomodulation. The role of intestinal microbiota is enhanced.