STUDIES ON ANTIOXIDANTS OF FOUR PLEUROTUS SPECIES

Abstract

Mushrooms, belonging to the division of fungi known as Basidiomycota, are increasingly recognized for their potential health benefits. Among them, Pleurotus species, commonly known as oyster mushrooms, have garnered significant attention due to their nutritional value and bioactive compounds. This study aimed to evaluate the total flavonoid content (TFC) and antioxidant activity of four Pleurotus species – P. ostreatus, P. columbinus, P. eryngii, and P. pulmonarius. The evaluation of TFC and antioxidant activity was conducted following established methodologies. Sample collection involved gathering wild edible mushrooms from various sites. Mushroom spawn preparation followed a standard protocol, including sterilization and inoculation. TFC was determined using the aluminum chloride colorimetric method, while antioxidant activity was assessed via the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The TFC 
analysis revealed significant differences among the Pleurotus species, with P. eryngii exhibiting the highest (6.67+-0.07) TFC value. This finding suggests that potential health benefits is associated with flavonoid-rich 
mushrooms. Moreover, the antioxidant activity showed P. eryngii to have the highest (66.50+-0.13) value scavenging potential, indicating its strong antioxidant properties. However, compared to the standard antioxidant 
substance, all Pleurotus species exhibited lower scavenging activity, suggesting the need for identifying specific bioactive compounds responsible for antioxidant activity. In conclusion, Pleurotus mushrooms exhibited variability in TFC and antioxidant activity among species, with P. eryngii showing promising potential. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these bioactivities of Pleurotus species can facilitate the development of functional foods and natural health products. Further research into bioactive compounds and their synergistic effects is required for fully harnessing the therapeutic potential of Pleurotus mushrooms.