Hematologic and Metabolic Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Agaricus sylvaticus Fungi on Rats Bearing Solid Walker 256 Tumor

Background: Many mushrooms have been used since ancient times for their nutritional and therapeutic properties. Alterations of hematologic parameters are commonly observed in patients with cancer, mainly due to the presence of some inflammatory mediators that have hemolytic effects, and yet can stimulate white blood cell release. Abnormalities in biochemical parameters are also found due to alterations in carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of Agaricus sylvaticus on hematologic and biochemical parameters of rats inoculated with Walker 256 tumor. Methods: The animals were divided into 4 groups, with 20 in each group. Group 1 was inoculated with Walker 256 tumor and treated with A. sylvaticus. Group 2 was inoculated with Walker 256 tumor and administered a placebo solution. Group 3 was not inoculated with the tumor and was treated with A. sylvaticus, and Group 4 was not inoculated with the tumor and was administered a placebo solution. The rats were sacrificed after 12 days of treatment, and blood was collected following heart sectioning. Results: Statistically significant differences between Groups 1 and 2 were observed in red blood cell count, hematocrit, hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, urea, and triglyceride levels. No significant differences between these two groups were noted in hematimetric indices, leukocyte counts, creatinine, and glucose levels. No significant differences in hematologic and biochemical parameters were noted between Groups 3 and 4. Conclusion: A. sylvaticus is able to reduce anemia and improve biochemical parameters in animals with cancer and has no adverse effects on the blood cells of healthy animals. Exp Biol Med 233:1341-1347, 2008