We discuss current information on the ability of extracts and
isolated metabolites from mushrooms to modulate immune responses. This can
result in a more enhanced innate and acquired disease resistance. The major
immunomodulating effects of these active substances derived from mushrooms
include mitogenicity and activation of immune effector cells, such as
lymphocytes, macrophages, and natural killer cells, resulting in the
production of cytokines, including interleukins (ILs), tumor necrosis factor
alpha (TNF)-α, and interferon gamma (INF)-γ. In particular, the ability of selective mushroom extracts to modulate the differentiation capacity of CD4+ T cells to mature into TH1 and/or TH2 subsets will be discussed. As a consequence these extracts will have profound effects in particular diseases, like chronic autoimmune TH1-mediated or allergic TH2-mediated diseases. Immunosuppressive effects by mushroom components have
also been observed. The therapeutic effects of mushrooms, such as anticancer activity, suppression of autoimmune diseases, and allergy have been associated with their immunomodulating effects. However, further studies are needed to determine the
molecular mechanisms of the immunomodulating effects of mushrooms metabolites both individually and in complex mixtures, for example, extracts.
