prostate-report.org

Oriental Mushroom May Help Fight Prostate Cancer

A new study in the United States suggest that an exotic mushroom widely used in oriental medicine contains chemicals that may fight prostate cancer. Extracts of the fungus, Phellinus linteus, have been used for centuries by eastern healers, who believe it has the power to rejuvenate and extend life.

Recent research has indicated the mushroom can hold back the growth of skin, lung and prostate cancer cells.

Scientists at the Methodist Research Institute in Indianapolis have found evidence that the fungus blocks the activity of an enzyme called AKT. The enzyme, a biological catalyst, is known to control signals that lead to cell growth and the development of new blood vessels feeding tumours. Cancers need a good blood supply to survive, and send out chemical messages which promote the construction of new blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis.

Scientists are actively exploring ways to block angiogenesis as a cancer therapy.

The research appears in the British Journal of Cancer

Tags: Phellinus linteus