Application of DNA from mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus for cancer biotherapy: a pilot study

Exp Oncol. 2006 Jun;28(2):132-5.

Abstract

Aim: In present work, the attempt to study immunomodulatory activity and biotherapeutical potential of DNA isolated from the fruit body of P. ostreatus was made.

Methods: The efficacy of biotherapeutic application of mushroom DNA was evaluated on the BALB/c mice with subcutaneously transplanted Ehrlich carcinoma. The effect of Pleurotus ostreatus DNA on NK activity was studied in vitro using nonspecific cytotoxicity assay.

Results: Application of mushroom DNA resulted in augmentation of NK cytotoxic activity in vitro and significant increase of the life span of mice with solid Ehrlich carcinoma.

Conclusion: The observed effects of P. ostreatus DNA administration can be probably explained by the presence of immunostimulatory unmethylated CpG motifs in DNA.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carcinoma, Ehrlich Tumor / therapy*
  • CpG Islands / immunology
  • DNA, Fungal / administration & dosage*
  • Female
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / drug effects*
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Pilot Projects
  • Pleurotus / chemistry*
  • Pleurotus / genetics

Substances

  • DNA, Fungal