Natural killer cell activity and quality of life were improved by consumption of a mushroom extract, Agaricus blazei Murill Kyowa, in gynecological cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy

Authors: W.-S. Ahn, D.-J. Kim, G.-T. Chae, J.-M. Lee, S.-M. Bae, J.-I. Sin, Y.-W. Kim, S.-E. Namkoong, I. P. Lee

Journal: International Journal of Gynecological Cancer

Study Design: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Participants: 100 gynecological cancer patients (cervical, ovarian, and endometrial cancer) undergoing chemotherapy

Intervention:

• Agaricus blazei Murill Kyowa (ABMK): Three packs per day
• Placebo: Three packs per day
• Both groups received standard chemotherapy (carboplatin plus VP16 or carboplatin plus taxol) every 3 weeks for at least three cycles

Outcome Measures:

• Natural killer (NK) cell activity
• Lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cell activity
• Monocyte activity (H₂O₂ production levels)
• White blood cell (WBC), lymphocyte, and immune cell population counts
• Quality of life assessment (insomnia, appetite, alopecia, nausea/vomiting, emotional conditions, discomfort, body strength)

Summary:
The study evaluated the effects of Agaricus blazei Murill Kyowa (ABMK) on immune function and quality of life in gynecological cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Patients who consumed ABMK showed significantly higher NK cell activity compared to the placebo group, suggesting an enhancement in innate immune function. No significant differences were observed in LAK cell activity or monocyte function. However, ABMK consumption improved chemotherapy-related side effects, including appetite, alopecia, nausea, emotional stability, and general body strength. These findings suggest that ABMK may help maintain immune activity and enhance the quality of life in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.