Following the promising lab results from the 2024 study, researchers and practitioners alike are beginning to explore how mushrooms like Agaricus blazei Murill (ABM) might fit into a larger picture—especially when used alongside conventional treatments for breast health.
1. Hormone-Positive Breast Cancer: MCF-7
Cancers like MCF-7 respond to hormones like estrogen, which can influence their growth. Compounds in ABM—including beta-glucans and ergosterol derivatives—may help:
- Support immune activity
- Balance oxidative stress
- Modulate inflammatory pathways
These supportive effects could help promote a more stable internal environment while undergoing hormonal therapies.
2. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): MDA-MB-231
TNBC is often harder to treat because it lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. However, ABM has shown promise in modulating the immune system and encouraging healthy apoptosis (cell turnover) in TNBC models. Other studies have also noted that ABM may:
- Enhance NK (natural killer) cell activity
- Influence cytokines and gene expression
- Improve chemotherapy uptake (as shown in a 2011 study with doxorubicin)
These are early-stage findings, but they show potential for ABM as a supportive element in managing TNBC.
Radiation Therapy: A Natural Support Strategy
Especially important for those navigating cancer treatment, several studies and real-world observations suggest that certain medicinal mushrooms—like ABM—may offer supportive benefits when used alongside radiation therapy.
Radiation therapy is designed to damage and stop the growth of cancer cells. While effective, it can sometimes impact healthy cells as well, leading to:
- Suppressed immune function
- Increased oxidative stress
- Fatigue and reduced vitality
Mushrooms like ABM contain:
- Beta-glucans – known for immune modulation
- Antioxidants – that may help counter oxidative damage
- Ergosterol and polysaccharides – studied for their role in supporting healthy cell recovery
Several preclinical and observational studies have found that ABM may:
- Help maintain white blood cell counts
- Enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity
- Reduce treatment-related fatigue
- Support recovery of healthy DNA and cellular structure
💡 A 2004 study published in Int J Gynecol Cancer found that women undergoing chemotherapy who took ABM showed improved NK cell function and quality of life. While this study focused on chemo, many of the same immune stressors apply to radiation therapy, making it relevant.
Can They Be Used Together?
Yes—with guidance from your healthcare provider, medicinal mushrooms may be included as part of a broader support strategy during radiation or chemotherapy. The key is:
- Quality: use whole-food, non-hybridized extracts like Desert Forest’s Brazilian-grown ABM
- Coordination: speak with your doctor before combining any natural support with conventional treatments
The Takeaway
We can’t claim that medicinal mushrooms cure or treat breast cancer—but research continues to highlight their role in supporting immune balance, oxidative stress reduction, and healthy cell function. As part of an integrative approach, mushrooms like ABM may offer natural support during a very challenging time in one’s health journey.
Bibliography
- Topalović D, Živković L, Borozan S, Santibanez JF, Spremo-Potparević B. An in vitro evaluation of the cytotoxic potential of medicinal mushrooms against human breast cancer cell lines. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol. 2024 Dec 29;75(4):297-302. doi: 10.2478/aiht-2024-75-3915.
- Grinde B, et al. Agaricus blazei Murill in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Int J Oncol. 2006;29(2):381–391.
- Sorimachi K, et al. Agaricus blazei Murill enhances doxorubicin-induced apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells by increasing intracellular doxorubicin accumulation. Int J Oncol. 2011;38(2):401–408.
- Hetland G, et al. Effect of the medicinal mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill on immunity, infection and cancer. Scand J Immunol. 2008;68(4):363–370.
- Itoh H, et al. Antitumor effects of a polysaccharide extract from Agaricus blazei Murill on sarcoma 180 in mice. Jpn J Pharmacol. 1994;66(2):265–271.
- Gao Y, et al. Effects of Ganopoly (a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract) on the immune functions in advanced-stage cancer patients. Immunol Invest. 2003;32(3):201-15.