Development of a natural functional supplement from pleurotus ostreatus and cordyceps militaris to mitigate side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy

Abstract

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy, while effective against cancer, often induce oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and systemic side effects that impair patient quality of life. This study aimed to develop a natural functional supplement from Pleurotus ostreatus and Cordyceps militaris to mitigate these adverse effects. Optimized extraction was achieved using a 30:70 ethanol–water solvent at 60 °C for 120 min, maximizing phenolic- and protein-associated bioactive recovery. The combined extract demonstrated notable antioxidant activity, with IC₅₀ values of 41.22 ± 2.94 mg/mL (DPPH assay) and 58.73 ± 3.81 mg/mL (lipid peroxidation inhibition), indicating moderate free radical scavenging and membrane lipid protection. Macrophage proliferation assays revealed a biphasic response, with maximal stimulation (12.04 ± 0.21%) at 0.0016 mg/mL, suggesting potent immunomodulatory effects at low doses. These findings support the synergistic potential of P. ostreatus and C. militaris bioactives in reducing oxidative damage and enhancing immune function, offering a safe, sustainable adjunct for patients undergoing cancer therapy.