Universiti Malaya (UM) researchers have created GO-BOOST, a novel health supplement. Derived from the Grey Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus pulmonarius) PL27 hybrid strain, GO-BOOST is designed to improve overall health and wellness through natural and sustainable resources. Dr. Phan Chia Wei, a renowned researcher in functional mushroom research from the Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, UM, discusses the history of GO-BOOST, its scientific basis, and its potential to positively influence health and well-being, instilling a sense of hope and optimism.
The Motivation Behind GO-BOOST
The creation of GO-BOOST was initially motivated by the critical need for adequate health remedies during the COVID-19 epidemic. The worldwide health crisis highlighted the necessity of robust immunity, encouraging researchers to investigate natural immune-boosting methods. Recognising mushrooms' growing popularity and therapeutic potential as superfoods and functional foods, Dr. Phan and his team concentrated on extracting immune-boosting components from mushrooms to build a dependable health supplement.
Scientific Foundations: The Role of Beta-Glucan
Beta-glucans, a kind of carbohydrate common in the cell walls of fungi such as mushrooms, are crucial to GO-BOOST's effectiveness. These lengthy sugar chains are essential in changing and increasing the body's immunological response. According to Dr. Phan, beta-glucans serve as immunomodulators, which can change the immune system's response. For example, beta-glucans may be beneficial in alleviating allergies or autoimmune diseases by reducing the activity of an overactive immune system. In contrast, beta-glucans can activate various immune components, including macrophages, white blood cells, and dendritic cells, when the immune system requires reinforcement, such as during an infection.
The Grey Oyster Mushroom PL27 strain was selected for its high beta-glucan content. The researchers used new extraction procedures inspired by classic double boiling processes to successfully break down the mushroom's cell walls, resulting in maximum beta-glucan production and bioavailability.
Overcoming Cultivation Challenges
Cultivating mushrooms, in general, provided unique obstacles. The critical challenge was assuring the strain's resistance to pathogens prevalent in mushroom growing. Collaborative work with experienced mushroom growers resulted in the creation of proper substrate formulations and regulated growth settings, which improved the strain's adaptability and disease resistance.
According to Dr. Phan, their method relied on sustainable farming methods. Using agricultural waste, including sawdust, as substrates aid an environmentally benign and resource-efficient farming cycle, so they embraced circular economy ideas. This strategy guarantees their primary raw material's constant quality and availability and environmental sustainability.
Comparative Advantages of GO-BOOST
While beta-glucan supplements are not new to the market, GO-BOOST stands out with its unique fungal-derived beta-glucans. Most commercially available beta-glucan supplements are derived from cereals such as oats, holding various structural connections (1,3 and 1,4). In contrast, beta-glucans derived from the Grey Oyster Mushroom have 1,3 and 1,6 linkages, which have been shown to have more potent immunomodulatory effects. According to Dr. Phan, GO-BOOST holds a highly purified beta-glucan content of about 37%, as well as other beneficial polysaccharides and bioactive compounds inherent to mushrooms. This composition offers a distinctive advantage, providing a holistic immune support system compared to conventional plant-based supplements.
Research and Clinical Studies
Many preclinical studies have supported GO-BOOST's therapeutic advantages. These studies included pharmacological testing on cell cultures and small animal models such as mice and rats. The findings showed encouraging outcomes, with substantial inflammation and oxidative stress decreases among test individuals.
Although they have produced compelling preclinical data, Dr. Phan emphasises that the next step is clinical studies involving human participants. Currently, the team is getting the permits and money needed to conduct thorough bioavailability and efficacy research on people. These investigations will closely follow ethical standards, guaranteeing informed consent and adherence to all relevant legal and medical criteria.
Prospects and Product Expansion
Looking forward, Dr Phan predicts a significant increase in the use of functional mushrooms in the health and wellness industry. The team at UM's Mushroom Research Center is looking into other potent mushroom varieties, such as the Monkey Head Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), which has been linked to improved cognitive function and neurological health, and the Tiger Milk Mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerus), which has shown promise in respiratory health. These mushrooms, along with GO-BOOST, represent a promising future for mushroom-based health solutions.
With a projected increase in mushroom-based products, both as stand-alone supplements and as components in multi-grain and fortified meals, Dr. Phan thinks the future of functional mushroom supplements looks excellent. The aim is to diversify and innovate by elevating many health solutions generated from mushrooms front and center in the wellness industry.
Consumer Education and Marketing Strategies
Effective consumer education is critical to the widespread use of GO-BOOST and other mushroom-based supplements. Dr. Phan stresses a multifaceted marketing strategy that includes digital platforms, educational material, and partnerships with influencers to promote awareness about the advantages of functional mushrooms. Through seminars, webinars, and social media campaigns, the scientist stresses the need to interact with the public to give necessary knowledge and debunk misconceptions about mushroom use. Emphasising scientific data and pragmatic advantages can set up confidence and inspire better living decisions among customers.
Ethical Concerns and Sustainable Practices
Adherence to ethical and environmental standards will be critical to the development and commercialisation of GO-BOOST. The project's ethos includes fair trade procedures, equal compensation for all persons engaged in the manufacturing process, and ethical sourcing. Dr. Phan confirms that all ethical guidelines would be strictly followed, including getting informed permission and guaranteeing participant safety, when the study moves to clinical trials involving human beings. Throughout all sides of the research and development processes, the dedication to sustainability and ethical responsibility is a basic tenet.
Guidance for Future Pioneers
With his experience, Dr. Phan provides sage counsel to other researchers and business people pursuing ventures in the health and wellness sector. He recommends prioritising scientific research and evidence-based practices, underscoring the necessity of innovations based on reliable scientific data to guarantee their safety and efficacy. Interdisciplinary collaboration and considering alternatives to conventional research methodologies can generate transformative concepts and commercial prospects.
Conclusion
The invention of GO-BOOST is UM's inventive spirit and scientific rigour. Dr. Phan and his team have meticulously researched and developed GO-BOOST, ensuring its quality and effectiveness. They are prepared to significantly contribute to public health and well-being by using mushrooms' natural characteristics and sustainable and ethical approaches. As research advances and awareness rises, GO-BOOST and other functional mushroom products may become essential for health-conscious lives worldwide, instilling confidence and reassurance in the audience.
Researcher featured:
Dr. Phan Chia Wei
Department of Pharmaceutical Life Sciences,
Faculty of Pharmacy, UM
For inquiries, please contact:
T: +603- 7967 7550
Author:
Ms Tan Wei Nie
With a keen interest, Tan Wei Nie, a PhD candidate in law, enriches her studies by fusing science with narrative, uncovering connections between the two fields. Her passion for nature and staying active fuels her enthusiasm for life and learning, infusing her journey with unexpected thrills and excitement.
Copyedit:
Siti Farhana Bajunid Shakeeb Arsalaan Bajunid, Assistant Registrar, UM
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