Mushrooms are a popular source of food and north-east India is home to a diverse group of edible mushrooms. The growing popularity of mushrooms has prompted researchers at IASST, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), to critically analyze the importance of edible mushrooms and natural compounds derived from mushrooms in reducing complications against COVID-19 and other viral infections. Inspired for.
The research group led by Professor Ashish K Mukherjee, Director, IASST, included Dr. Aparup Patra, Dr. M.R. Khan, Dr. Sagar R. Berge and Mr. Paran Barua of IASST, Guwahati on natural anti-infective, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory agents derived from a wide range of easily obtained mushrooms and their bioactive molecules versus current treatments against COVID-19. and analyzed the efficacy of anticoagulation products.
In the review article, these scientists described the roles of 13 different mushroom-derived bioactive compounds in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection and its infection-associated pathophysiology, such as lung infection, inflammation, cytokine storm, and thrombotic and cardiovascular effects. Method of action has been assessed.
Studies by these scientists state that mushrooms contain bioactive polysaccharides and compounds with immunomodulating, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and other medicinal properties. The study also said that mushroom-based drugs are being tested in human trials, with promising results against SARS-CoV-2.
The main benefits of using edible mushrooms against viral infections are – they can be used as nutraceutical supplements without any side effects and they can also help in strengthening the body's immune system. The study in the Journal of Fungi also shows that there is huge opportunity to better understand the role of mushroom-derived bioactive compounds through intensive pre-clinical and clinical studies. In this regard, there is a need to establish coordination between researchers, health professionals and policy makers.
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