Immunomodulating Activities of Cultivated Maitake (Medicinal Mushroom Grifola frondosa) on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells

MycoMedica Ltd. represents, in my view, a company that is a leading European producer of dietary supplements derived from fungi with medicinal properties. It is also a company with which I can reliably collaborate and one that has earned my trust.

My collaboration with Andrej Gregori began even before the establishment of MycoMedica Ltd. We first met at the IMMC4 (International Medicinal Mushroom Conference) in Ljubljana in 2007, an important scientific meeting dedicated to research on medicinal fungi. The conference served as a platform for the exchange of knowledge and experiences regarding the medicinal properties of fungi. At the time, he was a student and a member of the organizing committee of the congress.

Through these activities, our paths in scientific research and product development eventually intersected, contributing to the development of a wide range of products now available through MycoMedica Ltd. for both human and animal use.

Over the past twenty years, our communication and collaboration through meetings at congresses across Europe and Asia have only strengthened. As a result, we have also co-authored peer-reviewed scientific publications presenting complex in vitro and in vivo research in well-recognized journals, including Pharmaceuticals.

Finally, MycoMedica has my full trust and support, which they have earned through their strong scientific foundation as well as through personal experience. Both my family and I have been using their products for a considerable period of time.

Dr. Jasmina Glamočlija is the Principal Research Fellow at the Department of Plant Physiology (Mycology Lab.). She earned BSc in Biology, MSc in Biology of fungi and PhD in Mycology, at the Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade. The scientific research dr Glamočlija is focused on biology of fungi, plants, chemistry of natural products, metabolomics, and pharmacological activities of natural matrices and drug research for pharmaceutical and agro-technological applications. She is the author and co-author of more than 230 papers in international peer-reviewed journals of high importance: with over 6226 citations; with h-index of 41. Dr. Glamočlija is on the list of the most cited authors Stanford’s list for 2020, 2021 and 2022. She participated in more than 100 national and international conferences. Dr Glamočlija is assigned as a reviewer in 50 different International Peer Review Journals and was a guest editor in the Journal of Fungi and the Special Issue “New Insights into Antibiotics”, a review editor for Natural Medicinal Materials, a reviewer of several projects (bilateral and multilateral) for the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development of the Republic of Serbia and was a member of the Working Group for the selection of candidates for competition for National scholarships “For Women in Science” organized by L’Oreal Balkan. She participated in 11 scientific projects governed by the Ministry of Science and Technological Development, the Republic of Serbia, and 9 international projects concerning in the mycology as a researcher, task/WP leader, and the leader of the team Mycology Laboratory. She was in organizing and scientific committees of international congresses The 2nd Balkans-China Mini-symposium on Natural Products and Drug Discovery; UNIFood Conference; International Conference on Plant Biology (22nd SPPS Meeting); International Conference on Plant Biology, 21st Symposium of the Serbian Plant Physiology Society, Cost Action FA1106 Quality fruit Workshop; 11th International Medicinal mushroom conference (IMMC11).

My collaboration with Assoc. Prof. PhD Andrej Gregori and his company MycoMedica (Goba) has lasted for many years, and I consider it one of those partnerships that begins professionally – and then grows into something that is simultaneously scientifically productive, pedagogically inspiring, and personally highly trustworthy.

Even during my previous position at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, I collaborated with Assoc. Prof. PhD Gregori on research projects, including studies on the bioactive compounds of Hericium erinaceus, which resulted in a notable publication in an international journal. Projects like these quickly reveal who can combine scientific rigor with an understanding of real-world practical needs – and this is one of his greatest strengths: broad knowledge, methodological consistency, and the ability to translate complex content into practical solutions.

Our collaboration has not been limited to research. We continue to work together as co-instructors in the doctoral course Natural Medicines from Fungi, Plants, and Animals at the Biotechnical Faculty, where Assoc. Prof. PhD Gregori consistently demonstrates that he is not only an excellent researcher but also an outstanding educator: clear, systematic, evidence-based, and open to discussion. We also collaborate in an intensive phytotherapy course for physicians, where his expertise is particularly valuable due to his responsible approach to evidence, safety, and realistic boundaries of application.

At MycoMedica, I also appreciate their focus on development and the high standards they maintain in their products as well as in communication with professional and general audiences. Working with Assoc. Prof. PhD Gregori is genuinely enjoyable: professional, reliable, fair, and driven by a sincere desire to do things well – not just quickly.

Prof. Dr. Samo Kreft is a pharmacist, Doctor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and a long-standing full professor in the field of pharmaceutical biology at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. He obtained his degree in pharmacy at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, where he also completed his doctoral studies, earning his PhD in 1999 in the field of analysis of bioactive compounds in medicinal plants. His scientific research is focused on medicinal plants, pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, dietary supplements, and bioactive compounds in foods. His work particularly addresses the efficacy, safety, and quality of plant-based preparations, as well as their role in nutrition and health. He began his academic career at the Chair of Pharmaceutical Biology at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, where he advanced from assistant to full professor in 2010. Over more than three decades of teaching, he has lectured on pharmaceutical biology and medicinal plants and supervised numerous undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral theses. He is the author and co-author of numerous scientific and professional publications and has served as editor or co-editor of books in the field of phytotherapy, including Modern Phytotherapy. He is also actively involved in knowledge transfer to practice and in the education of both professional and general audiences. An important part of his professional work includes collaboration with the European Medicines Agency (EMA), where he served for 14 years as a member of the Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC), contributing to the development of European monographs on medicinal plants. He has also participated in national expert bodies, including as a member of the Strategic Council for Nutrition of the Republic of Slovenia. After concluding his full-time position at the Faculty of Pharmacy in 2025, he continues his work in research, consultancy, and education in the field of phytotherapy. He is a co-founder and leading lecturer of the Modern Phytotherapy programme, where he conducts professional courses, workshops, and consultations related to medicinal plants and nutrition.

Based on ancient Chinese and Asian experience, medicinal fungi have been a source of the most effective pharmaceutically active compounds for over two thousand years. Fungal polysaccharides, proteins, proteoglycans, terpenoids, sterols, steroids, and other compounds represent an extraordinary treasure of completely naturally produced molecules with highly proven efficacy.

Historically, most of this reputation was associated with wild fungi from nature. However, since the 1960s, the cultivation of medicinal fungi has expanded significantly, contributing to increased production and use of various well-known and highly effective medicinal mushrooms. The recent growing demand for products derived from medicinal fungi, particularly those with anticancer and immunomodulatory effects, has further increased the natural production of medicinal fungi and their products. While in East Asian countries, where the use of medicinal fungi products has been largely validated through clinical experience and is flourishing, the Western world still struggles to fully recognize the benefits of medicinal fungi and their products.

With long-standing experience based on highly productive collaborations with major Chinese institutions and strict Eco-Bio production adhering to the most demanding certification standards, MycoMedica is one of the leading and most respected producers in the EU in this field.

By using entirely natural raw material sources combined with a non-speculative commercialization of their highly effective products, MycoMedica enjoys strong consumer trust.

Prof. Dr. Marin Berovič is a distinguished Slovenian engineer and scientist, internationally recognized for his work in bioprocess engineering, biotechnology, and cultivation technologies for microbial and fungal systems. He obtained his degree in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering and earned his PhD at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana. His research and teaching work has encompassed diverse areas related to bioreactors, bioprocesses and their control, liquid and solid-state cultivation technologies, and the biology of engineered microorganisms for industrial and biotechnological applications. He served as a full professor of Biotechnology and Bioengineering at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana (1998–2016) and has published numerous international scientific contributions. He is a member of the Slovenian Academy of Engineering Sciences and the New York Academy of Sciences, and has held leading roles in international organizations such as the International Organization on Biotechnology and Bioengineering (Vice-Chair) and the European Federation of Biotechnology (Chair of the European Section on Biochemical Engineering Sciences and member of the Executive Board). Throughout his career, Prof. Berovič has authored hundreds of scientific and professional publications, served as editor of key works in bioprocess engineering, and received multiple awards for research and innovation, including the B. Kidrič National Awards and the ITTC Award. Prof. Berovič is also well known for international courses and training programs he established and led, as well as for his collaborations with research institutions and industry across Europe and worldwide.

The discovery of two fungi in the belongings of the frozen Ötzi mummy demonstrates that humans already used fungi for medicinal purposes in prehistoric times – not only in China, but also in Europe. Just as in those times, fungi remain important in medicine today and represent significant potential in healthcare.

Four of the most important drugs are derived from fungi: the antibiotic penicillin; ergotamine, which regulates vascular (capillary) contraction; monacolin K – lovastatin, which lowers cholesterol; and cyclosporin, which suppresses the immune response in organ transplants and in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. In addition to these, many other fungi contain diverse bioactive compounds. Their effects on human well-being are broad, providing therapeutic benefits and alleviating numerous illnesses.

A balanced and varied diet, providing the body with essential nutrients for normal function, is crucial for human health. Nevertheless, modern lifestyles often require additional support for the organism, either for general well-being or for the prevention and treatment of diseases. In this context, medicinal fungi products hold a special place, as they contain numerous bioactive compounds with beneficial effects on the immune system, overall resilience, and general well-being.

Of the drugs mentioned above, I have personally only used penicillin. This is because I regularly use various medicinal fungi products as a dietary support, rather than as a “dietary supplement” in the bureaucratic sense. I understand this use as support for the body’s defense mechanisms, not as a replacement for medical treatment. Both my personal experience and numerous international scientific studies, conducted in collaboration with MycoMedica, demonstrate that medicinal fungi can play an important role in maintaining health, making this a promising and interesting area of modern medicine.

Among the many medicinal fungi, notable species include: Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane), Grifola frondosa (Maitake), Cordyceps species, and Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail), from which the polysaccharides PSK (Krestin) and PSP have been isolated, known for their anti-cancer properties and their ability to reduce side effects of radio- and chemotherapy.

MycoMedica produces premium GOBA products from these and other medicinal fungi (“mycelia”), which I have been occasionally using for many years to support my health and well-being.

Professor Franc Pohleven, PhD, is a distinguished Slovenian biologist and mycologist, internationally recognized for his work in fungal physiology, biotechnology of higher fungi, and wood protection. He is an emeritus professor at the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. He obtained his degree in biology and earned his PhD at the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, specializing in fungal physiology and mycorrhizal interactions. His research and teaching have encompassed a broad range of topics, including mycology, wood pests, biotechnology of higher fungi, mushroom cultivation technologies, wood decomposition processes, and the development of environmentally friendly wood protection methods, with applications in nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and industrial biotechnology. Professor Pohleven served for many years at the Department of Wood Science, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, where he taught courses in mycology, biotechnology, wood protection, and conservation, and supervised numerous undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral theses. He is the author and co-author of numerous scientific and professional publications and patents, and has collaborated extensively with research institutions and industry both in Slovenia and internationally. He is an honorary member of the Slovenian Academy of Engineering Sciences and a long-time initiator and organizer of scientific and educational events, including the “Magic of Wood” workshops and exhibitions, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly use of wood and the biotechnological potential of fungi. For his long-standing contributions to research and teaching, he received the Jesenko Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana.

My collaboration with MycoMedica d.o.o. – like many of the best things in life – began entirely by chance, through a student research project back in 2017. Even then, I found the use of medicinal fungi very interesting, though I could never have imagined just how many opportunities this field would offer.

Throughout my academic career, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with many international partners, including academia, research institutes, and industry. I must admit, however, that working with MycoMedica is one of the closest collaborations I have experienced. The company, led by my good friend Assoc. Prof. PhD Andrej Gregori, is dedicated to the development and production of medicinal fungi products at the highest level, and they invest tremendous effort in the continuous improvement of GOBA products – which I have personally tested and found to be truly effective.

Our joint research and development path is founded on mutual trust, honesty, hard work, and an endless curiosity that drives progress and innovation in the field of dietary supplements. Over the past decade, we have successfully completed numerous applied projects (PKP and PUŠ, with a fifth joint project currently underway), where University of Ljubljana students acquire new skills and laboratory experience, while research results contribute to the development of new technologies and also lead to scientific publications (for example, in the field of heavy metal remediation in water) and professional symposia (17 contributions in total).

In addition, under joint supervision, five bachelor’s and master’s theses have been successfully completed in the field of medicinal fungi research. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with MycoMedica and believe that our joint efforts will continue to yield many achievements in the future. Thank you very much!

Assoc. Prof. Gregor Marolt, PhD, is a Slovenian chemist and researcher internationally recognized in the fields of analytical chemistry, electroanalytical methods, food chemical analysis, and sensor development. He is an Assoc. Prof. at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, where he works at the Chair of Analytical Chemistry. His research focuses on the development and application of modern analytical techniques, including ion chromatography, voltammetry, mass spectrometry, and nano-engineered sensors, for the analysis of bioactive compounds, microplastics, phytic acid, and other components in food and environmental samples. His work also includes the study of volatile and non-volatile compounds in foods and the development of electrochemical sensors for monitoring biological and environmental indicators. Assoc. Prof. Marolt is the author and co-author of numerous original scientific articles in international peer-reviewed journals and serves as a leader or contributor in several national and international research projects in analytical chemistry. As a lecturer at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, he has supervised and guided numerous students in undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral theses in analytical chemistry, electroanalysis, and chemical microbiology. His work significantly contributes to the development of analytical methods that are essential for ensuring food quality and safety, monitoring environmental contaminants, and advancing chemical sensor technologies and measurement approaches.