Abstract
Malignancies have been among the diseases which claim most of the lives
around the globe. They also impact the socioeconomic level as well as emotional
detriments among the near and dear ones. Various strategies and interventions have
been devised to combat these life-threatening conditions. The ill effects associated with
synthetic drugs comprising most of the anticancer drugs enforce looking for an
alternative source for molecules with therapeutic potential. Mushrooms are one of the
most prominent sources of bioactive molecules with diverse medicinal properties.
Various mushrooms have shown their ability to inhibit the proliferation of neoplastic
cells both in in vitro and in vivo investigations. Mushrooms and their active
constituents can affect the various Hallmarks of Cancer. Mushrooms are not only able
to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, but they also prevent the onset of
carcinogenesis. The anti-angiogenic property of various mushrooms is indicated in
several research investigations. The immunomodulatory potential and ability to avert
metastasis also aid in the anticancer potential of this wonderful food item. Due to the
high nutritive values of edible mushrooms, they have been suggested as nutraceuticals
and contribute to nutritional management in diseases including cancer. The active
constituents are also proven to have chemosensitizing ability. Preventive management
of cancer and reverting chemoresistance have been sought as promising achievements
in the clinical management of malignant conditions. Moreover, the nutritional values of
mushrooms, along with their therapeutic potential at various fronts against cancer,
make them a strong candidate for clinical application. This also warrants the careful exploration of mushrooms, their nutritive potential, and bioactive constituents against
malignant disorders in laboratory and clinical settings.