by City of Hope National Medical Center

Effects of WBM extract on tumor growth in TRAMP-C2 flank tumor xenograft models. Credit: Clinical and Translational Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.70048

Researchers at City of Hope now understand why taking an investigational white button mushroom supplement shows promise in slowing and even preventing prostate cancer from spreading among men who joined a phase 2 clinical trial studying “food as medicine.”

Looking at preclinical and preliminary human data, the City of Hope scientists found that taking white button mushroom pills reduces a class of immune cells called myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which has been linked to cancer development and spread.

“City of Hope researchers are investigating foods like white button mushroom, grape seed extract, pomegranate, blueberries and ripe purple berries called Jamun for their potential medicinal properties. We’re finding that plant-derived substances may one day be used to support traditional cancer treatment and prevention practices,” said Shiuan Chen, Ph.D., the Lester M. and Irene C. Finkelstein Chair in Biology, professor and chair of the Department of Cancer Biology and Molecular Medicine at Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, and senior author of the new Clinical and Translational Medicine study.

“This study suggests that ‘food as medicine’ treatments could eventually become normal, evidence-based cancer care that is recommended for everyone touched by cancer.”

An investigational white button mushroom treatment shows promise in changing “cold” tumors into “hot” tumors by bringing in cancer-fighting T cells. Credit: Dr. Shiuan Chen Laboratory / City of Hope

In mouse models, researchers found that administration of white button mushroom extract significantly delayed the growth of tumors and extended the survival of mice. It also improved T cell immune response through the reduction of MDSC levels in animal models, meaning it improved the immune system’s ability to kill cancer.

The researchers profiled blood draws from some of the men participating in City of Hope’s phase 2 clinical trial. The men were under active surveillance as they took white button mushroom supplements. Focusing on eight participants’ samples before and after three months of white button mushroom treatment, the scientists found that there were less tumor-creating MDSCs and more anti-tumor T and natural killer cells, suggesting white button mushroom rebuilds anti-cancer immune defense and slows cancer growth.

“Our study emphasizes the importance of seeking professional guidance to ensure safety and to avoid self-prescribing supplements without consulting a health care provider,” said Xiaoqiang Wang, M.D., Ph.D., City of Hope staff scientist and first author of the study.

“Some people are buying mushroom products or extract online, but these are not FDA-approved. While our research has promising early results, the study is ongoing. That said, it couldn’t hurt if people wanted to add more fresh white button mushrooms to their everyday diet.”

City of Hope researchers are now focusing on whether the reduction in MDSCs is associated with improved clinical outcomes in patients with prostate cancer.

More information: Xiaoqiang Wang et al, Reduction of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in prostate cancer murine models and patients following white button mushroom treatment, Clinical and Translational Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.70048

People interested in joining the phase 2 clinical trial should visit https://www.cityofhope.org/research/clinical-trials

Provided by City of Hope National Medical Center

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