Evaluación del potencial inmunomodulador de extractos de Pleurotus djamor y Cantharellus cibarius en células mononucleares de sangre periférica humana (hPBMC) mediante análisis molecular

Abstract

Las enfermedades inflamatorias crónicas, el cáncer, las enfermedades autoinmunes y las alergias presentan una prevalencia significativa a nivel mundial y comparten un origen común: la desregulación del sistema inmunológico. Ante las limitaciones de los inmunomoduladores actuales, como efectos secundarios y costos elevados, esta investigación evaluó el potencial inmunomodulador de extractos etanólicos liofilizados de Pleurotus djamor y Cantharellus cibarius en hPBMC mediante análisis molecular in vitro. Los resultados demostraron que ambos extractos mantienen la viabilidad celular en rangos específicos: P. djamor a 100 μg/mL y C. cibarius a 200 μg/mL.

Chronic inflammatory diseases, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and allergies are highly prevalent worldwide and share a common underlying mechanism: immune system dysregulation. Current immunomodulatory therapies, including synthetic and biological agents such as exogenous cytokines, are often limited by severe side effects and high costs, highlighting the need for safer, more effective, and accessible alternatives. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory potential of lyophilized ethanolic extracts from Pleurotus djamor and Cantharellus cibarius in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) through in vitro molecular analysis. Ethanolic extracts were prepared from both fungal species, and blood samples were obtained from six informed-consent donors. hPBMCs were isolated using Histopaque, and optimal extract concentrations were determined using the MTT cytotoxicity assay. Gene expression of immunological markers was evaluated by quantitative PCR (qPCR). Results showed that both extracts maintained hPBMC viability within specific concentration ranges, with maximal effects observed at 100 μg/mL for P. djamor and 200 μg/mL for C. cibarius. Regarding immunomodulation, P. djamor induced cellular proliferation (Ki67) and immune activation (HLA-DRA), whereas C. cibarius primarily upregulated HLA-DRA, suggesting moderate activation focused on antigen presentation. Neither extract significantly induced pro-inflammatory (IFN-γ) or anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokine expression. Overall, these findings suggest that P. djamor exhibits a more comprehensive stimulatory profile, while C. cibarius promotes antigen-presenting readiness, indicating complementary immunomodulatory properties with potential therapeutic relevance for maintaining balanced human immune microenvironments.