Natural products possess unique chemical structures and biological activities, significantly contributing to pharmaceutical science. In a pioneering study, researchers from Shinshu University have discovered Inaoside A, an antioxidant from Laetiporus cremeiporus mushrooms. This finding highlights mushrooms’ potential as a source of therapeutic compounds. The search for novel bioactive compounds from natural sources is crucial for developing new therapeutic agents. Among these sources, mushrooms are notable for their bioactive molecules with potential pharmaceutical applications. The genus Laetiporus, particularly L. cremeiporus, known for its antioxidant properties, has gained attention. However, specific antioxidant compounds from this species had not been identified until this study. Led by Assistant Professor Atsushi Kawamura, the research team successfully isolated Inaoside A from L. cremeiporus. This phenolic compound, along with other bioactive compounds, was identified using advanced chromatographic techniques. Inaoside A exhibited significant antioxidant activity, with a DPPH radical scavenging activity showing 80% inhibition at 100 μg/mL. This discovery emphasizes the potential of mushrooms in developing antioxidant-based therapies and functional foods. Further research aims to explore the chemical compositions and biological properties of these natural compounds.
Source: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2405844024006820
