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November 18, 2024 — New research from City of Hope, one of the nation’s leading cancer research centers, suggests that a white button mushroom supplement may help slow or even prevent the spread of prostate cancer. In a promising phase 2 clinical trial, scientists have discovered that this supplement could reduce the presence of immune cells known to facilitate cancer growth, potentially offering a novel, plant-based adjunct to traditional cancer treatments.
The study, published in Clinical and Translational Medicine, explores the idea of “food as medicine,” investigating the medicinal properties of white button mushrooms, a common culinary ingredient. Researchers focused on myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), a type of immune cell associated with cancer development. In both laboratory models and human clinical trial data, the use of white button mushroom pills showed a marked reduction in these cells, which are known to suppress the immune system and promote tumor growth.
Dr. Shiuan Chen, senior author of the study and a renowned cancer researcher at City of Hope, emphasized the potential of plant-derived therapies to complement traditional cancer treatments. “We are finding that foods like white button mushrooms, along with other plant-derived substances like grape seed extract and pomegranate, may one day become part of routine cancer care,” he said.
City of Hope’s approach to integrative oncology, which combines traditional treatments with complementary therapies, is gaining attention. Thanks to a $100 million gift from Panda Express Co-CEOs Andrew and Peggy Cherng, the Cherng Family Center for Integrative Oncology is helping accelerate this promising research.
In the laboratory, the team observed that administering white button mushroom extract to mouse models not only delayed tumor growth but also extended survival. It did so by enhancing the immune response, specifically through the reduction of MDSCs and the stimulation of anti-cancer T and natural killer cells.
Clinical findings from the trial involving human participants mirrored these results. Blood samples from men taking white button mushroom supplements showed a decrease in MDSCs and an increase in immune cells capable of fighting cancer. This suggests that the supplement may help rebuild the immune system’s ability to target and destroy tumors.
However, the researchers caution against self-prescribing mushroom supplements without consulting a healthcare provider. Dr. Xiaoqiang Wang, the study’s first author, emphasized the importance of professional guidance, especially since many mushroom products available online are not FDA-approved.
“The results are promising, but the study is ongoing. While more research is needed, it couldn’t hurt for people to include more fresh white button mushrooms in their diet,” Dr. Wang advised.
The team’s ongoing research seeks to determine whether these early findings will translate into improved clinical outcomes for prostate cancer patients. The trial, funded by the National Cancer Institute, is open to participants, with information available through City of Hope’s clinical trials portal.
With growing interest in natural, integrative approaches to cancer care, this study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that dietary components could play a significant role in managing cancer and improving patients’ quality of life.
For more information on the clinical trial, visit City of Hope’s clinical trials page.
