China’s mushroom-derived peptide shows potential in treating brain damage

CHINA – Chinese researchers have found a mushroom compound that could help treat brain injuries caused by oxygen deprivation.

Scientists say the findings may guide the development of future therapies for conditions that currently have limited treatment options.

A team at the Biotechnology and Nuclear Technology Research Institute, part of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, led by Chuan Xiong, isolated a peptide from Morchella importuna, a mushroom valued for its medicinal properties.

The peptide, known as MIP-15, appears to protect brain cells affected by hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a condition that can cause severe damage or death in newborns.

“Our study shows that this peptide could be a game-changer in neuroprotection,” Xiong said. “Its ability to both scavenge free radicals and block apoptosis pathways opens new treatment possibilities.”

The research, published in Food Science and Human Wellness, builds on earlier work where the peptide showed strong antioxidant activity. In the latest study, the team used a neonatal rat model to mimic brain injury.

MIP-15 restored antioxidant activity, reduced swelling, improved brain tissue health, and helped memory and motor function.

Further experiments on rat hippocampal neurons under oxygen-glucose deprivation showed that MIP-15 prevented mitochondrial breakdown, a trigger for cell death.

The peptide stabilized membrane potential, stopped the release of cytochrome c, increased protective Bcl-2 proteins, and reduced caspase activation.

Wider scientific interest in mushroom compounds

The discovery comes at a time when interest in mushroom-derived bioactives is growing in the scientific community. In May 2025, Discover Oncology published findings showing that mushroom-based compounds such as β-glucans, terpenoids, flavonoids, and peptides may play a role in cancer therapy.

These compounds support immune function by activating natural killer cells and macrophages while offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Scientists believe these effects could also help treat neurodegenerative diseases, which share oxidative stress pathways with brain injuries.

A separate study, published in MDPI Nutrients in August 2024 by researchers from Chulalongkorn University and the University of Hong Kong, found that mushroom bioactives improved antioxidant activity and reduced inflammation in both lab and animal models.

The same research also showed positive effects on the gut microbiome, which supports overall brain health and could benefit conditions such as stroke and age-related cognitive decline.

While MIP-15’s results in animal models are promising, more research is required before human trials can begin. Scientists say the compound could eventually find applications in pharmaceuticals and functional foods aimed at protecting brain health.

Xiong and his team remain optimistic. “We still have work ahead, but the data gives us confidence that MIP-15 can lead to safer and more effective treatments,” he said.

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