Lentinan

Lentinan is a type of polysaccharide derived from the shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes). It is a beta-glucan, a class of complex sugars (polysaccharides) known for their diverse biological activities. Lentinan is recognized for its immunomodulatory, antitumor, and antiviral properties.

History

Lentinan was first isolated in Japan in the 1960s from the shiitake mushroom. It has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries, particularly in Japan and China, for its perceived health benefits.

Structure and Properties

Lentinan is a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide, composed of beta-1,3-glucan with beta-1,6 branches. This structure is believed to be responsible for its biological activities. Lentinan is insoluble in water and must be administered intravenously to exert its therapeutic effects.

Biological Activities

Immunomodulatory Effects

Lentinan is known to stimulate the immune system, enhancing its ability to fight infections and diseases. It does this by activating various immune cells, such as macrophages, T cells, and natural killer cells, and stimulating the production of cytokines.

Antitumor Effects

Lentinan has been shown to have antitumor effects in both in vitro and in vivo studies. It is believed to exert these effects not by directly killing tumor cells, but by enhancing the body's immune response against the tumor. In Japan, lentinan is approved as an adjuvant therapy for gastric cancer.

Antiviral Effects

Lentinan also has antiviral properties. It has been shown to inhibit the replication of various viruses, including the influenza virus and HIV.

Clinical Use

In Japan, lentinan is used as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of gastric cancer, along with chemotherapy. It is administered intravenously due to its water-insoluble nature. Studies have shown that lentinan can improve the survival rate of patients with gastric cancer.

Safety and Side Effects

Lentinan is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, it can cause side effects, particularly when administered intravenously. These can include fever, chills, nausea, and skin reactions at the injection site.

See Also

• Beta-glucan
• Shiitake mushroom
• Immunomodulator
• Antitumor agent