Mucor plumbeus
Also known as: Mucor plumbeus
Overview
Mucor plumbeus is a fungal species belonging to the genus Mucor, primarily recognized for its biochemical activities and allergenic potential rather than as a nutritional supplement. It is commonly found in soil and decaying organic matter. Key characteristics include its ability to produce various polysaccharides and its enzymatic activities, such as acetylcholinesterase inhibition and biotransformation of terpenes and steroids via cytochrome P450 enzymes. Research on Mucor plumbeus is mainly focused on microbiology and biotechnology, with limited studies directly related to clinical or supplement applications. It has been explored for biotechnological applications, including detoxification of environmental pollutants and biotransformation of natural products. The current research does not support its use as a supplement for health benefits, and no systematic reviews or meta-analyses validate such claims. Its primary relevance lies in its allergenic properties and biotechnological potential rather than as a dietary supplement.
Benefits
There is no high-quality clinical evidence to support Mucor plumbeus as a supplement providing direct health benefits. Some in vitro studies have demonstrated acetylcholinesterase enzyme inhibition by its extracts, suggesting potential neuroactive properties, but these findings have not been clinically validated. No population-specific benefits have been established, and there is a lack of clinical trials to determine effect sizes or clinical significance. Therefore, no evidence supports the use of Mucor plumbeus for any specific health benefit.
How it works
Mucor plumbeus produces extracellular and intracellular polysaccharides, including glucuronic acid and glucosamine, which may contribute to its biochemical activities. It exhibits enzymatic activity via cytochrome P450 enzymes, enabling hydroxylation and biotransformation of terpenes and steroids. In vitro studies show that extracts inhibit acetylcholinesterase enzyme activity, which theoretically could affect neurotransmitter metabolism. However, there is no clinical data confirming these effects in humans, and the absorption and bioavailability of its components in humans have not been studied. The primary mechanism of action is related to its enzymatic and polysaccharide production capabilities, which are relevant in biotechnological contexts but not in direct human supplementation.
Side effects
Mucor plumbeus is known to provoke allergic reactions and is used in allergenic testing panels. There is a lack of data on common or uncommon side effects from supplementation, as it is not typically used as a supplement. The potential risk of allergic sensitization is a primary concern, especially in individuals with mold allergies. No documented drug interactions or contraindications related to supplementation exist due to its absence in supplement formulations. Special populations, such as immunocompromised individuals, may theoretically be at risk of fungal infections if exposed, but this is not documented in supplement use. Due to its allergenic potential, caution is advised, and it should be avoided by individuals with known mold allergies.
Dosage
There are no established dosing guidelines for Mucor plumbeus as a supplement, as it is not used in this context. Its only known use is in allergenic extracts at very low concentrations, such as 0.0006 g/mL in mold mixtures for allergy testing. There is no data available on timing, absorption factors, or cofactors related to its use as a supplement. Given the lack of safety and efficacy data, no dosage can be recommended, and its use as a supplement is not advised.
FAQs
Is Mucor plumbeus safe to consume as a supplement?
No, there is no evidence supporting its safety or efficacy as a supplement. It is primarily an allergen and environmental fungus.
Does it have health benefits?
No clinical evidence supports any health benefits from Mucor plumbeus supplementation.
Can it cause allergic reactions?
Yes, Mucor plumbeus is known to provoke allergic reactions and is used in allergy testing.
Is it used in any approved medications or therapies?
It is used as part of allergen extracts for diagnostic purposes, but not as a therapeutic supplement.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2309-608X/9/6/659 – This study detailed the biochemical composition of Mucor plumbeus, including polysaccharides and enzymatic biotransformations. It highlighted acetylcholinesterase inhibition and cytochrome P450-mediated biotransformations. The study was experimental and biochemical in nature, focusing on the fungus's enzymatic properties rather than clinical applications.
- https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4995410 – This systematic review focused on mucormycosis, a fungal infection caused by Mucorales species, including Mucor plumbeus. It analyzed diagnostic PCR performance and clinical outcomes in infected patients. The study was rigorous but unrelated to supplement efficacy or therapeutic use of Mucor plumbeus itself.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2023.1268840/full – This review focused on mucormycosis, analyzing diagnostic PCR performance and clinical outcomes in infected patients. The study was rigorous but unrelated to supplement efficacy or therapeutic use of Mucor plumbeus itself. The research provides insights into the diagnosis and management of mucormycosis but does not support any claims related to Mucor plumbeus as a supplement.
- https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB10437 – This DrugBank entry provides information on the use of Mucor plumbeus extracts in allergenic testing mixtures. This is a recognized clinical application for diagnostic purposes but not a supplement use. The entry confirms its allergenic properties and its role in allergy testing, rather than any therapeutic or supplemental benefits.
