The recent study published in Scientific Reports explored how Chaga mushroom extract impacts oral cancer cells. Researchers found that the extract significantly slowed the growth of HSC-4 human oral cancer cells by inhibiting cell cycle progression and proliferation. It also reduced cancer cell energy consumption and promoted autophagy-mediated cell death.

The extract inhibited glycolysis and activated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), leading to increased autophagy and decreased ATP levels in treated cells. Furthermore, the extract suppressed mitochondrial membrane potentials, triggering apoptosis via nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activation.

LC-MS identified three potential anti-cancer compounds in the extract: 2-hydroxy-3,4-dimethoxybenzoic acid, syringic acid, and protocatechuic acid. While more research is needed, these findings suggest that Chaga mushroom extract could be a promising supplementary therapeutic option for oral cancer treatment.