Title: Optimization of fermentation conditions and capsule formulation for enhanced bioactive compound delivery from medicinal mushrooms
Abstract:
The enduring history of medicinal mushroom use in traditional healing practices, dating back to the Neolithic era, highlights their age-old recognition for nutritional and therapeutic benefits. These fungi exhibit a broad spectrum of potential health-promoting activities, including antimicrobial, antiviral, cytotoxic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiallergic, mood-stabilizing, lipid and glucose regulation, digestive support, and blood pressure modulation. This research focuses on four medicinal mushroom species: Cordyceps militaris, Ganoderma lucidum, Hericium erinaceus, and Lentinula edodes. The fungi were cultivated on a defined artificial media containing 4% carbon sources (glucose, fructose, galactose, sucrose, or starch) and 0.2% nitrogen sources (peptone, yeast extract, corn steep powder, ammonium nitrate, or potassium nitrate), supplemented with essential minerals and 2% agar. The study investigated the impact of varying carbon and nitrogen sources on mycelial growth and secondary metabolite production through submerged fermentation, with quantification via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The proximate composition and antioxidant activity of fungal extracts were determined both individually and in combination. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was utilized to optimize mycelial proliferation in relation to temperature, pH, and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. Finally, a combined capsule formulation of all fungal extracts was developed, aiming to provide a synergistic health boost by maximizing the benefits of diverse secondary metabolites. Encapsulation offers convenient and precise dosing, masks unpleasant taste, improves absorption, ensures quality, extends shelf life, and enables targeted release, potentially offering advantages over traditional tea, coffee, or powder formulations. Intensive scientific research could pave the way for the mainstream adoption of medicinal mushroom capsules in healthcare.
