Planta Med 2013; 79 - PC4
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1351998

Influence of the mushroom Piptoporus betulinus on human keratinocytes

M Harms 1, U Lindequist 1, Z Al-Resly 1, K Wende 2
  • 1Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-University, Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
  • 21 Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-University, Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, 17489 Greifswald, Germany 2 Center for Innovation Competence plasmatis, Junior Research Group Cellular Effects and INP Greifswald, Germany

Various fungi are known for their biological activities in men and thus are used as medicinal mushrooms. One of these, the basidiomycete Piptoporus betulinus (birch polypore), was already used by the ice man (Ötzi), probably as anti-inflammatory agent. Natural compounds and preparations of the fungus sole host genus – Betula species – are known for their activity in skin related disorders and are even discussed for their potency in cancer treatment. Triterpenoid compounds like betulin and betulinic acid are assigned to be responsible for these effects [1]. However, there is little knowledge on the natural compounds of the birch polypore and their potential skin protective properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the activity of extracts of Piptoporus betulinus on a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT).

Treatment with an ethylacetate extract of Piptoporus mycelium resulted in a dose-dependent increase in cell viability and also reduced a serum deprivation induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. HaCaT cells stressed by UVB broadband irradiation (20 mJ/cm2) showed a strong cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase. Incubation with Piptoporus betulinus extract after irradiation reduced this effect by 20%. Under the same conditions, the UV-induced DNA damage was diminished. Confirmation of these results by gel free high resolution mass spectrometry based proteome analysis is currently underway. First results indicate an increase of cellular oxidoreductase levels during treatment with Piptoporus betulinus extract. On the basis of the presented data a bioassay for the guided fractionation of the ethylacetate extract was established. The study clearly shows that Piptoporus betulinus is a promising candidate for both skin cosmetics and active natural compound research.

Reference:

[1] Huyke, C., M. Laszczyk, A. Scheffler, R. Ernst, C.M. Schempp, Treatment of actinic keratoses with birch bark extract: a pilot study. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2006; 4: 132 – 136