Abstract
We conducted chemical and biochemical studies on mushrooms, and gave the following results.
1. Compounds that are effective for dementia were isolated from Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) and Bunahariatake (Mycoleptodonoides aitchisonii). Regarding Yamabushitake, our research triggered some clinical trials, and improvement effects on dementia were found.
2. Anti-MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) compounds were found out from Yamabushitake and Hanabiratake (Sparassis crispa).
3. Hyaluronan degradation regulating compounds were obtained from Keshoshimeji (Tricholoma orirubens) and Shironumeriiguchi (Suillus laricinus).
4. Gastrointestinal toxic compounds were obtained from Kakishimeji (Tricholoma ustale) and Dokuyamadori (Neoboletus venenatus).
5. Compounds that cause clinical deterioration from drinking were found form Hoteishimeji (Clitocybe clavipes).
6. As studies on lectin, a lectin having food suppression activity was purified from Hiratake (Pleurotus ostreatus). A lectin from Yamabusitake is the first sialic acid specific lectin isolated from other than animals. An N-glycolylneuraminic acid-binding lectin was discovered from Ohshirokarakasatake (Chlorophyllum molybdites) and this is the first lectin showing such sugar binding specificity.
