Scientists are investigating if City of Hope's natural supplement derived from white button mushroom could lower prostate-specific antigen levels, an indicator of prostate cancer. City of Hope is a well-known, independent research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. It is recruiting patients for a Phase 2 clinical trial to investigate whether pills containing white button mushroom extract could regulate the immune system, affecting prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels to either remain stable or decline. In men, heightened levels of PSA may indicate the existence of prostate tumors.
Researchers have been investigating the potential beneficial effects of white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) at City of Hope for many years. Translational preclinical and clinical research has found that this "bioactive food" available in most supermarkets might prevent or slow the spread of prostate and breast cancers. The common fungus appears to block the activity of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a strong form of the male hormone.
"White button mushroom -- like green tea, turmeric, soybean, rosemary and tomato -- has been considered a 'superfood' with positive effects on human health," Shiuan Chen, Ph.D., co-investigator of the clinical trial, told eurekalert.org. "What we're trying to do is scientifically prove whether the hype is true. If white button mushroom can slow the progression of prostate cancer, we want to know what the active agent is and what biological mechanisms are at work."
Photo source: City of Hope