Ganoderma lucidum

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) has long been used as a medicinal herb for immune enhancement and cancer prevention and adjuvant therapy. We previously reported that ReishiMax (RM), a Reishi extract enriched in Reishi polysaccharides and triterpenes, enhanced proliferations of macrophages, B, T and NK lymphocytes, increased serum IgA, IgG, IgM & secretion of IL2 and Interferon, decreased IL5 secretion, and inhibited cancer malignancy (FASEB J 2007, 21:A1100; 2008, 22:1136.2). In this study, we examined the effect of RM in lifespan extension in mice. Male and female ICR mice (12 months of age) were randomized to receive either mouse chaw alone or prior mixed with RM at a dose of 175, 350 or 700 mg/kg. Calorie intake was adjusted twice a week to match the levels for the male or female controls. RM treatment (88 wks so far) showed: (1) no significant differences in body weight and calorie intake among the groups; (2) compared to controls, lifespan was extended 30-66 days at 50% survival, 46-110 days at 20% survival and 61 to >148 days at 10% survival (the study is ongoing). Kaplan-Meier Survivor analysis showed significantly extended lifespan with RM and reduced death risks, with the best survivor curve observed in mice receiving RM supplementation at 175 mg/kg (equivalent to the human dose) (p=0.023). Our data thus far indicates that ReishiMax extends the lifespan of normal aging mice.