Rhizopus nigricans
Also known as: Rhizopus nigricans, A species of filamentous fungus in the genus Rhizopus
Overview
Rhizopus nigricans is a filamentous fungus commonly found in soil and decaying organic matter. It is known for its role in fermentation processes and the production of extracellular polysaccharides. Recent research has focused on its bioactive compounds, particularly polysaccharides, which have shown potential antitumor and immune-enhancing properties in preclinical studies. These polysaccharides, such as EPS1-1, are extracted from the fermentation liquor of Rhizopus nigricans. While in vitro and in vivo studies have explored its biological effects, there is a lack of systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on Rhizopus nigricans as a supplement ingredient. The fungus belongs to the genus Rhizopus, which includes species used in various industrial and medical applications.
Benefits
The primary investigated benefits of Rhizopus nigricans relate to its polysaccharide components, particularly EPS1-1: * **Antitumor and anti-metastasis effects:** Studies have shown that EPS1-1 inhibits the migration, invasion, and adhesion of colorectal cancer cells (CT26) in vitro. In vivo studies in mice demonstrated a reduction in lung metastasis. EPS1-1 appears to suppress matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activity and expression, inhibit angiogenesis by decreasing VEGF and microvessel density, and downregulate vimentin, a marker of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) related to metastasis. The strength of this evidence is moderate, based on preclinical studies. * **Immune-enhancing activity:** EPS1-1 has also demonstrated immune-enhancing effects in preclinical studies, although specific immune parameters were not quantitatively defined. The strength of this evidence is limited, requiring further research to elucidate the mechanisms and extent of immune modulation.
How it works
The antitumor and anti-metastatic effects of Rhizopus nigricans polysaccharides, such as EPS1-1, are thought to occur through several mechanisms. EPS1-1 inhibits cancer cell invasion and metastasis by downregulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are enzymes that degrade the extracellular matrix, facilitating tumor spread. It also inhibits angiogenesis by reducing VEGF expression and microvessel density, thereby limiting the blood supply to tumors. Furthermore, EPS1-1 decreases vimentin expression, a key marker of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), potentially reducing the metastatic potential of cancer cells. The polysaccharide may also enhance immune function, although the specific pathways and immune cells involved require further investigation.
Side effects
Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive safety data from clinical trials on Rhizopus nigricans or its polysaccharides as supplements. No common or rare side effects have been reported in the available preclinical studies. However, given that some Rhizopus species can be opportunistic pathogens, potentially causing infections like mucormycosis, caution is warranted, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Due to the limited research, there are no documented drug interactions or contraindications. It is crucial to approach Rhizopus nigricans supplementation with caution until more safety data become available from well-designed clinical trials.
Dosage
There are no established dosing guidelines for Rhizopus nigricans or its polysaccharides in humans due to the limited clinical research. Preclinical studies have administered EPS1-1 in mice for up to 14 days, but the human equivalent doses and safety remain unknown. Without sufficient human data, it is impossible to recommend a safe and effective dosage. Further research is needed to determine appropriate dosing ranges and potential toxicity levels in humans.
FAQs
Is Rhizopus nigricans safe as a supplement?
The safety of Rhizopus nigricans as a supplement in humans is not yet established. Current evidence is limited to preclinical studies, and clinical trials are needed to assess its safety profile.
What are the potential benefits of taking Rhizopus nigricans?
Based on animal and cell studies, potential benefits include anti-cancer and immune-enhancing effects. However, these findings need to be confirmed in human studies before any definitive claims can be made.
How quickly might effects from Rhizopus nigricans appear?
In animal models, effects on metastasis were observed after 14 days of treatment with EPS1-1. The timeline for potential effects in humans is unknown and requires further investigation.
Can Rhizopus nigricans be used to treat fungal infections?
Rhizopus nigricans itself is not used to treat fungal infections. However, related species within the Rhizopus genus are being studied in antifungal research for potential therapeutic applications.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29684852/ – This preclinical study investigated the effects of a polysaccharide (EPS1-1) from Rhizopus nigricans on colorectal cancer metastasis. The study found that EPS1-1 inhibited cancer cell migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and EMT markers in vitro and reduced lung metastasis in a mouse model. These findings suggest a potential anti-metastatic role for EPS1-1, but further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/d7c0/edf3387a7e702da81fc555ac187d7a88eb8c.pdf – This experimental microbiology study focused on targeted antifungal liposomes for treating infections caused by Rhizopus delemar, a related species. The study explored improved drug delivery methods to combat fungal infections. While not directly related to Rhizopus nigricans as a supplement, it highlights the medical relevance of the Rhizopus genus in the context of fungal infections.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhizopus_oryzae – This Wikipedia article provides general information about Rhizopus oryzae, another species in the Rhizopus genus. It discusses its uses in food fermentation and its potential as an opportunistic pathogen. This source provides context about the genus but does not directly relate to Rhizopus nigricans as a supplement.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/11786302241293345 – This study investigates the use of chitosan nanoparticles to deliver Amphotericin B to treat mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus species. The study found that the nanoparticles improved the efficacy of the antifungal drug. This study is related to the treatment of fungal infections caused by Rhizopus species, but it does not directly relate to Rhizopus nigricans as a supplement.
