AHCC Function
AHCC powder (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) is an active hexose-related compound, which is rich in a-glucan nutritional supplements. It is produced by the mycelium of Lentinula edodes of the Basidiomycete family, and this is not an approved drug. The original purpose of AHCC powder was to slightly lower blood pressure. However, the research team at the University of Tokyo found that AHCC has a profound effect on the innate immune system. In 1992, they published their research results. The researchers found that AHCC effectively promotes the activity of natural killer cells (NK) in cancer patients. It also strengthens killer T cells and cytokines (interferon, IL-12, TNF-a). Due to its unique immune activation function, it has become one of the natural active substances attracting worldwide attention.
AHCC and cellular immune system
AHCC stimulates cellular immunity because AHCC can activate white blood cells, especially natural killer cells (NK cells) and macrophages. Natural killer cells and macrophages can directly attack abnormal cells, virus-infected cells, or foreign viruses and bacterial pathogens that enter the body. Some studies have shown that the basic mechanism of AHCC powder activation of the immune system is that it can stimulate dendritic cells. Dendritic cells capture and deliver antigens (proteins that cause diseases) and carry them to lymphatic organs (such as the spleen and lymph nodes). Cytokines secreted by dendritic cells cause immune system reactions. B cells and T cells (B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes) are the transmitters of the immune system, but dendritic cells control the functions of these cells.
AHCC and disease prevention
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause tissue damage and accelerate aging. A study by Tokkyo University of Medicine used a strong oxidant called Ferric nitrilotriacetate to initiate oxidation. And this study shows that AHCC can prevent the tissue damage caused by these experiments in rats. Ferric nitrilotriacetate (Ferric nitrilotriacetate) is a chemical that can cause cancer and damage many organs, especially the liver and kidneys. Pre-treatment with AHCC showed the following protective effects:
(1) Significantly reduce urinary 8-OhdG: DNA oxidative stress indicators and risk factors for cancer, arteriosclerosis and diabetes;
(2) Make creatinine meet the standard, creatinine is an indicator of renal damage;
(3) Significantly reduce AST and ALT serum, which is an indicator of liver damage;
(4) Reduce thymocyte apoptosis, which is an indicator of immune loss.
These results show that a wide range and high degree of protection against oxidative stress can be achieved. In another study using Ferric nitrilotriacetate, AHCC powder used the antioxidant properties of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to prevent the reduction of thyroxine and testosterone production.
