For centuries, Ganoderma lucidum, commonly known as lingzhi or reishi, has been prized as a medicinal fungus. Modern research has primarily focused on its well-known components like polysaccharides and triterpenes. However, this patent from Macau University of Science and Technology investigates a different aspect: whether tiny RNA molecules from the fungus could serve as a new approach for anticancer therapies.
The researchers extracted and characterized transfer RNA (tRNA) from Ganoderma lucidum and identified a specific molecule called tRNA-Ile(GAU). Based on its sequence, they designed several double-stranded RNA molecules, including shorter fragments and chemically altered versions. The patent suggests using these molecules in pharmaceutical formulations aimed at inhibiting tumor growth, proliferation, or metastasis, with claims covering ovarian, colorectal, and liver cancers. In laboratory tests, the scientists evaluated these RNA molecules against three human cancer cell lines: A2780 ovarian cancer, HCT-8 colorectal cancer, and HepG2 liver cancer cells. Several candidates impeded cancer cell growth and proliferation, and modified versions of one candidate, GL2, also exhibited dose-dependent effects. The graphs in Figures 6–8 show how cell viability varied with increasing RNA concentrations. Currently, the study is limited to cell cultures, so the patent does not claim these molecules can treat cancer in humans. Still, it suggests an exciting possibility: the medicinal potential of a fungus might go beyond its traditional chemical compounds to include the biological information within its RNA.
