Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality worldwide, and most lung cancer deaths are caused by tobacco smoking and second-hand smoking. NNK and B[a]P are known procarcinogens in tobacco smoke that can eventually lead to lung cancer.
In a preclinical study that was published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, researchers from the USA investigated the potential chemopreventive effects of the Ganoderma lucidum mushroom. They found that mice treated with the GL-derived commercial product GLSF had lower B[a]P-induced lung toxicity and reduced NNK-induced lung tumor development.
A medicinal mushroom, the Ganoderma lucidum is known to have anticancer and immunomodulating properties and has been employed as a nutraceutical in the treatment of various chronic ailments, including cancer.
As per the study, GLSF demonstrates preventive abilities in vitro and in vivo against tobacco-smoking-induced lung carcinogenesis. Although further research is required to confirm the results of this study, this preliminary evidence paves the way for clinical trials in the future. Subject to trial results, GLSF could potentially be utilized in individuals with an increased risk of developing lung cancer, such as heavy smokers.
Source: news-medical.net
