Assessing the Immunomodulatory Potential of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) Supplementation in Sendai Virus-infected Wistar Rats

Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are rich in bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, terpenoids, and polyphenols. These compounds are known for their immunomodulatory properties and antioxidant activity, which helps protect cells from damage caused by infections and free radicals, which are linked to aging and chronic diseases. This study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) supplementation in Wistar rats infected with Sendai virus. The study evaluated the impact of the mushroom supplement (administered at 25%, 50%, and 75% inclusion rates) on hematological parameters, liver and kidney function, CD4 counts, viral load, and histopathological changes in the liver, kidney, heart, and lungs. Oyster mushroom supplementation demonstrated varying effects on hematological parameters, with groups Group 3 (50% mushroom) showed the highest RBC count before infection (6.38 ± 0.01 x 1012/L). However, Group 4 (75% mushroom) exhibited a significant decrease in RBC count post-infection. Liver and kidney function tests revealed significant increases in liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP) and some kidney function markers (total bilirubin, creatinine) in infected rats, indicating organ damage. However, CD4 counts significantly increased in all supplemented groups post-treatment, suggesting enhanced immune recovery with Group 4 (75% mushroom) exhibiting the most substantial increase (990.33 ± 1.76 cells/µL). Also, the group receiving the highest dose of mushroom supplement Group 4 (75% mushroom) exhibited the most significant reduction in viral load post-treatment (2277615.6667 ± 1138809.50 copies/mL). Histological analysis revealed varying degrees of inflammation and tissue damage in the liver, kidney, heart, and lungs of infected rats. While the mushroom supplement did not completely prevent these pathological changes, it appeared to mitigate some of the tissue damage, particularly in the group receiving the highest dose. These findings suggest that oyster mushroom supplementation may have some beneficial effects on immune function and viral load reduction in Sendai virus-infected rats. However, further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and to investigate the long-term implications of mushroom supplementation in the context of viral infections.