An edible mushroom protein might kill a Leukemia cell, also used in other treatments

A new research suggests protein found in the edible mushroom, Coprinus comatus, also known as shaggy ink cap might kill a type of leukemia cell.

mushroom protein

Coprinus comatus mushroom normally found in North America and Europe. Its habitat usually meadows and grasslands. Sometimes found along gravel roads or on lawns in towns and cities.

These mushrooms already known for its nutritional value, as well as antioxidant and antimicrobial potential. Some studies linked Coprinus comatus elements with potential for HIV, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer treatments.

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Now, researchers from the University of Florida uncovered a new potential for a Coprinus comatus protein killing a type of leukemia T cell.

Dr. Yousong Ding, an assistant professor at the University of Florida, and his team looked at Y3, a protein present in Coprinus comatus, binds with the LDNF glycan, which is a sugar molecule usually found in parasites. The molecule activates a cell-signaling cascade that can program a type of leukemia T cell to commit suicide.

glycan binding proteins

The protein Y3 has significant glycan binding properties. The interactions of glycan binding proteins (GBPs) provides an understanding of how systems respond to pathogens and can facilitate the creation of new therapeutic pathways.

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During the study scientists tested the interaction between Y3 and LDNF using model leukemia cells. The interaction could cause the death of over 90 percent of the leukemia T cells. The action of the Y3 GBP on this type of leukemia cell can be productive and very efficient.

Researchers suggest, this may have meaningful implications for T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment. This type of blood cancer is particularly aggressive, and it is responsible for up to 25 percent of acute lymphoblastic leukemias. The estimated number of adult deaths owed to acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2017, in the United States, will be 1,440.

More information: [PNAS]