The Potential of Fungi in the Development of Future Anti-Seizure Medications

Background: While a significant number of epilepsy patients respond well to anti-seizure medications (ASMs), some individuals experience persistent seizures despite undergoing ASM polytherapy, a condition known as drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). There is a pressing need for the discovery and development of new ASMs to serve as alternative and adjunct therapies for patients with DRE. Fungi are organisms that possess a wealth of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, with some demonstrating neuroprotective effects. Further research and development may position mushrooms as a promising future treatment for seizure management. Topics: The pathophysiology of epilepsy is closely linked to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Mushrooms exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and several species have been investigated for their potential in epilepsy treatment. Notable mushrooms include Armillaria mellea, Amauroderma rugosum, Auricularia polytricha, Cordyceps militaris, Ganoderma lucidum, Ganoderma neo-japonicum, Hericium erinaceus, Amanita muscaria, and Pleurotus ostreatus. Additional mechanisms through which these fungi may benefit epilepsy patients include enhancing the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, reducing neuronal excitation while promoting inhibition, protecting mitochondrial function, and increasing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor. Conclusion: Mushrooms hold significant potential as both alternative and adjunct therapies for epilepsy. Their rich anti-inflammatory and antioxidant content is crucial in reducing seizure frequency, mitigating the progression of epilepsy, and improving patients' overall quality of life.