DefinePK

Abstract

Fungal immunomodulatory proteins (FIPs) are a class of proteins isolated from different mushrooms such as Ganoderma lucidum, are known for their role in immunomodulation and potential contribution to anticancer properties. Medicinal mushrooms have a long history in traditional medicine, has gained increasing scientific interest for its potential health benefits. The first fungal immunomodulatory protein known as Lingzhi-8 (LZ-8) was isolated from Ganoderma lucidum. These proteins have specific structure and exist as homodimers. They are naturally present in the mushrooms or can be produced in the laboratory and known as recombinant fungal immunomodulatory proteins. In this review, we will discuss the diverse immunomodulatory effects of fungal immunomodulatory proteins, including their ability to activate the immune cells, influence the cytokine production, and modulate the signaling pathways. They are also known for their therapeutic potential in case of autoimmune diseases. Additionally, we examine the current understanding of how these properties might translate to anticancer effects, such as inhibiting tumor growth, promoting cell apoptosis, regulating the cell cycle, inhibiting telomerase activity and promoting the immune surveillance against the cancer cells. Besides the anti-cancerous and immunomodulatory potential of these proteins they are also known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which are useful in various ways. This review also highlights areas requiring further research, including a deeper understanding of the specific mechanism by which they exert their immunomodulatory and anticancer activities. Overall, these proteins present a promising avenue for the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of cancer along with other diseases.
Keywords: Apoptosis; Angiogenesis; Cytokine production; Fungal immunomodulatory proteins (FIPs); Telomerase activity
http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2025.140018