Mushroom extract used in Chinese medicine stops growth of invasive breast cancer cells

Scientists in the U.S. have discovered that a substance derived from mushrooms and used for centuries in Chinese medicine may stop the growth of breast cancer cells.

Extracts from the mushroom Phellinus linteus have been found to have significant anti-cancer properties and the researchers suggest it could provide a new weapon in the arsenal against cancer.

The scientists from the Methodist Research Institute in Indianapolis say in laboratory tests carried out on highly invasive human breast cancer cells, the mushroom appeared to block an enzyme called AKT which is known to control signals that prompt cell growth.

Phellinus linteus has been shown in other research to have anti-tumour properties which are effective on skin, lung and prostate cancer cells but this latest research on breast cancer cells is the first time scientists have managed to figure out just how Phellinus linteus works.

Phellinus linteus, famed in Oriental alternative medicine, is called song gen in Chinese medicine, sang-hwang in Korean and meshimakobu in Japanese.

Dr. Daniel Sliva who led the research says the mushroom extract reduced uncontrolled growth of new cancer cells, suppressed their aggressive behaviour and blocked new tumour-feeding blood vessels - but they are unable as yet to apply this knowledge to modern medicine.

Dr. Sliva says however that they hope their research will encourage more scientists to explore the use of medicinal mushrooms for the treatment of cancer.

The researchers say their study suggests Phellinus linteus potentially has a therapeutic effect against invasive breast cancer.

The research is published in the current issue of the British Journal of Cancer.