Table 1.

Overview of research on the anti-aging effects of mushroom extracts on skin.

Species	Experiment	Results
Trametes versicolor	in vitro (human keratinocyte HaCaT)	The mushroom extract (10 µg/mL) mitigated UVB-induced cellular senescence in human HaCaT keratinocytes, likely by enhancing the expression of proteins involved in regulating cellular aging, metabolism and stress responses. The extract from Trametes versicolor effectively countered UVB-induced cellular senescence through a mechanism that does not depend on reactive oxygen species (ROS).	[12]
	in vitro (human keratinocyte HaCaT)	The enzymatic hydrolysis of polysaccharopeptides from Trametes versicolor using 80 U/mL of β-1,3-D-glucanase preserved the functional groups of the polysaccharopeptides while significantly enhancing their antioxidant properties. The resulting modified polysaccharopeptides demonstrated superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities compared to the original polysaccharopeptides.	[13]
Tremella fuciformis	in vitro (human skin fibroblasts)	Treatment with hydrogen peroxide led to decreased viability of human skin fibroblasts, accompanied by increased generation of reactive oxygen species and cell apoptosis. However, applying Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide (TFPS) at concentrations ranging from 0 to 400 µg/mL for up to 48 h did not affect cell viability. Pre-treatment with the polysaccharide effectively mitigated oxidative stress and reduced apoptosis in hydrogen peroxide-treated fibroblasts. The protective effect of the polysaccharide was concentration-dependent, with the maximum effect observed at 200 µg/mL. These findings suggest that TFPS alleviates hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in skin fibroblasts by upregulating proteins involved in cellular aging, metabolism and stress responses.	[14]
	in vitro (human keratinocyte HaCaT)	Extracts of Tremella fuciformis at concentrations of 100, 200 and 300 µg/mL significantly reduced melanin levels and tyrosinase expression in a dose-dependent manner in murine B16F10 cells. Additionally, concentrations of 100 and 200 µg/mL of Tremella fuciformis extract enhanced wound healing in human keratinocytes and Detroit 551 fibroblasts. These findings demonstrate the extract’s effective inhibition of melanogenesis and its promotion of wound healing in vitro. Notably, the treatment did not alter cell morphology or significantly impact the viability of B16F10 cells.	[15]
	in vitro (human skin fibroblasts)	Pretreatment with Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides (3.125–400 mg/mL) effectively mitigated oxidative stress in UVA-exposed human dermal fibroblasts. This treatment significantly reduced the levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde while enhancing total antioxidant activity. Key antioxidant enzymes, including catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, showed marked increases. Additionally, polysaccharide pretreatment protected fibroblasts by upregulating the protective protein Nrf2 and downregulating Keap1 expression. The polysaccharides also increased collagen I, elastin and hyaluronic acid levels in UVA-treated skin fibroblasts.	[16]
	in vitro (human keratinocyte HaCaT)	A range of studies was conducted to assess the effects of polysaccharides on UV-damaged human skin in a chronic UV-irradiated mouse model. The research determined that polysaccharides at a concentration of 5 mg/mL effectively protected human skin keratinocytes from UV-induced apoptosis and reactive oxygen species production. They modulated the levels of thioredoxin-interacting protein and thioredoxin reductase 2, contributing to photoprotection. Additionally, topical application of polysaccharides alleviated UV-induced skin damage in the chronic UV-irradiated mouse model. The assays indicated that concentrations of 1–5 mg/mL of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides (TFPS) were safe for human skin keratinocytes and significantly enhanced cell viability	[17]
	in vivo (six-week-old female Babl/c mice)	In this study, polysaccharides extracted from Tremella fuciformis using hot water extraction and ethanol precipitation were evaluated for their therapeutic effects. The efficacy of topical versus oral administration of these polysaccharides was compared in a dinitrofluorobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis mouse model. Both routes of administration (50 and 200 mg/kg) improved transdermal water loss, epidermal thickening and ear edema in the atopic dermatitis mice. However, oral administration demonstrated significantly superior efficacy compared to topical application. Additionally, polysaccharide treatment led to an increased proportion of regulatory T cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes.	[18]
	human clinical studies (20 Thai volunteers)	Stable hand sanitizer gel bases were developed with 66.5% ethanol and 0.3% triclosan, and were enhanced with polysaccharides extracted from snow mushrooms. Among the formulations tested, those containing 10% snow mushroom extract and 0.3% gelling agent were preferred most by 20 Thai volunteers. The snow mushroom hand sanitizer was found to be non-irritating, similar to the placebo. Additionally, the snow mushroom gel significantly improved skin moisture compared to the placebo at all time points, up to the end of the 180-min study period (p < 0.05).	[19]
	human clinical studies	Cosmetic formulations incorporating Tremella fuciformis extract demonstrated a 12.4% reduction in transepidermal water loss compared to formulations lacking this active ingredient, effectively maintaining epidermal hydration as confirmed by instrumental measurements. The emulsion base comprised the following components: Citric Acid (for pH regulation), Sodium Gluconate (0.2%), Xanthan Gum (1.0%), Sodium Benzoate + Potassium Sorbate + Aqua (1.0%), Tocopherol + Helianthus annuus Seed Oil (1.0%), Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate (2.0%), Glycerin (7.0%), Vitis vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil (25.0%) and Aqua (to 100.0%). Tremella fungus extract (Evonik) was incorporated into the emulsion at a concentration of 0.1 wt.%. Dermatological tests performed on the final formulations revealed no instances of erythema, swelling or irritation in any of the test subjects 48 and 72 h post-application.	[21]
	in vitro (chemical determination of radical scavenging activity by 3 methods) and in vivo (Specific-pathogen-free (SPF) grade 4-week-old male Kunming mice)	Purified polysaccharides from Tremella fuciformis (molecular weight 4.68 × 106 Da), composed of mannose, fucose, xylose and glucose, were evaluated for their biological activity. These polysaccharides lacked a triple helix conformation and demonstrated scavenging activity against radicals that was dependent on both concentration and molecular weight. Notably, the polysaccharides significantly mitigated skin aging, reduced oxidative stress and diminished inflammation in a model of d-galactose-induced aging in mice.	[22]
Ganoderma lucidum	in vitro (DPPH, FRAP tyrosinase inhibition and B16 melanoma cells)	Five varieties of Ganoderma lucidum from Vietnam were analyzed for their total polyphenol content and antioxidant properties, including DPPH radical scavenging, FRAP assay and tyrosinase inhibition. All extracts demonstrated notable bioactivity, which correlated strongly with their total polyphenol content, with Pearson correlation coefficients approximately r ~ 0.8 (p < 0.10). The ethanol extract of Korean lingzhi, noted for its high bioactivity, was characterized by the presence of 16 bioactive compounds, including proteins, glucosides, triterpenoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and polysaccharides. At a concentration of 40 μg/mL, this extract was tested on B16 melanoma cells and showed no significant cytotoxicity. It effectively inhibited melanin production by 29.34% and reduced intracellular tyrosinase activity by 21.93%, comparable to the positive control, arbutin (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that Ganoderma lucidum holds substantial promise for use in skincare products aimed at treating skin pigmentation.	[24]
	in vitro (inhibition of tyrosinase)	The inhibitory effects on tyrosinase activity were assessed for extracts from various mushrooms, including Ganoderma lucidum, Antrodia camphorata, Agaricus brasiliensis and Cordyceps militaris. Among these, Ganoderma lucidum demonstrated the most significant inhibition of tyrosinase activity, with an IC50 value of 0.32 mg/mL. At a concentration of 1 mg/mL, Ganoderma lucidum extracts reduced tyrosinase activity by approximately 80%. In contrast, a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL resulted in a 40% reduction in tyrosinase activity.	[25]
	in vitro (mouse melanoma cell line, B1610F7)	Methanolic extracts of Ganoderma lucidum demonstrated an inhibitory effect on melanin biosynthesis in the B16F10 mouse melanoma cell line. An active compound, ergosterol peroxide, was isolated from the extract and found to significantly reduce melanin accumulation at a concentration of 2 mg/mL. This reduction was attributed to the suppression of melanogenic enzymes in the B16F10 cells, with greater efficacy observed at concentrations exceeding 1 mg/mL.	[26]
	in vitro (peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs))	A method was employed to extract β-glucan from the antler-type fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum. The resulting extract, with a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL, contained 40.57% β-glucan and 7.47% protein. This extract exhibited notable bioactivities, including anti-tyrosinase and antioxidant properties, making it a potential agent for skin whitening by reducing or inhibiting pigmentation processes. Additionally, the β-glucan demonstrated moderate activities against collagenase, elastase and hyaluronidase. The extract was found to be non-irritating to the skin, and tests with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) indicated no significant impact on cell viability.	[27]
	in vitro (B16F10 and PIG1 cells)	The expression of melanogenesis-related genes, including microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein 1, tyrosinase-related protein 2, ras-related protein Rab-27A and myosin, increases following UVB irradiation in B16F10 and PIG1 cells. However, treatment with Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (40 µg/mL) effectively downregulates these UVB-induced melanogenesis genes. The polysaccharides inhibit UVB-induced activation of protein kinase A and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, protect mitochondria from UVB-induced damage and reduce reactive oxygen species production. In zebrafish models of UVB-induced skin pigmentation, the polysaccharides demonstrated the ability to suppress UVB-induced pigmentation. Additionally, in guinea pig models, the polysaccharides significantly alleviated erythema caused by high-dose UVB exposure. Notably, low concentrations of Ganoderma polysaccharides (<160 µg/mL) did not exhibit significant toxicity towards B16F10 cells.	[28]
	in vitro (human skin fibroblasts)	Six polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum were assessed for their free radical scavenging abilities (DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals) and their effects on oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in human skin fibroblasts. One polysaccharide, GLP1, was further fractionated into GLP1I and GLP1II. All polysaccharides demonstrated effective free radical scavenging and enhanced fibroblast resistance to H2O2 damage. At a concentration of 5 g/L, GLP1, GLP1I and GLP1II significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. GLP1II was notably more effective than vitamin C in protecting cells. Additionally, these polysaccharides increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). The polysaccharides also influenced signaling pathways by activating key antioxidant genes and inhibiting negative regulators. Overall, GLP1, GLP1I and GLP1II effectively protected human skin fibroblasts from H2O2-induced oxidative damage, highlighting their potential as natural antioxidants for skin protection.	[29]
	in vitro Mus musculus skin melanoma cell line (B16-F10 ATCC, CRL-6475) and Cercopithecus aethiops kidney normal cell line (Vero ATCC, CCL-81); mouse fibroblast cell line (L929)	The multifunctional peptide derived from Ganoderma lucidum was sequenced via LC-MS/MS as NH2-PVRSSNCA-CO2H (octapeptide). Its antioxidant activity was evaluated at 1 mg/mL using DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays. The octapeptide demonstrated antioxidant capacities of 0.121 ± 0.01 mg ascorbic acid equivalent, 0.173 ± 0.03 mg gallic acid equivalent and 2.21 ± 0.23 mM FeSO4 equivalent, comparable to established antioxidants. Proteomics analysis identified 5804 proteins and highlighted several pathways affected by the octapeptide in melanoma cells. Targeted proteomics revealed that pigmentation-related proteins were upregulated, while Tyrosinase-Related Protein 1 was downregulated in the treated group. The octapeptide, at concentrations from 1.5625 µg/mL to 100 µg/mL, did not cause significant cell death in either melanoma or Vero cells.	[30]
Lentinula edodes	in silico	Three bioactive compounds were isolated from Lentinula edodes, with compound 1 previously reported and compounds 2 and 3 newly identified. The study indicates that compounds 1 and 3 contribute to the fruit body’s potential as an effective cosmetic ingredient for skin lightening or treating melasma. Notably, compounds 2 and 3 are being reported from Lentinula edodes for the first time. Compound 3, in particular, shows promise as a lead molecule for targeting tyrosinase, with potential for optimization to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity. This compound also exhibits significant skin-lightening effects by inhibiting melanin production.	[32]
	in vitro (human keratinocyte HaCaT)	Lentinan extracted from Lentinula edodes exhibited significant antioxidant properties, effectively quenching DPPH (0.094–1.5 mg/mL), ABTS (23.44–375 µg/mL) and superoxide anions (23.44–375 µg/mL) in a concentration-dependent manner. It reduced malondialdehyde formation and increased superoxide dismutase activity. Lentinan not only provided protection against oxidative damage but also demonstrated reparative effects in keratinocyte cells, enhancing cellular tolerance to oxidative stress and improving cell repair mechanisms.	[34]
	in vitro (Human malignant melanoma cell line (A375.S2) and human foreskin fibroblast (HS27)) In vivo (Zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio))	This study evaluates the effects of mutated Shiitake extract (A37) and wildtype Shiitake extract (WE) on various activities. Although both extracts have similar total phenolic contents, A37 has a higher total flavonoid content (1.04 ± 0.7 mg/100 mL) compared to WE (0.86 ± 0.9 mg/100 mL). A37 showed lower antioxidant activity (EC50 = 549.6 ± 2.70 µg/mL) than WE (EC50 = 52.8 ± 1.19 µg/mL). Toxicity tests on zebrafish embryos indicated that both extracts halted embryogenesis at concentrations above 900 µg/mL. Both extracts reduced pigmentation, but A37 did not affect embryo heartbeat. Cell cycle analysis revealed that WE significantly altered the cell cycle, whereas A37 did not. Both extracts inhibited phosphorylation of Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 β in human foreskin fibroblasts, potentially triggering apoptosis in melanin-producing cells. Of 19 known compounds, 14 were present in both extracts, with decitabine in A37 highlighting its potential for medical applications such as melanoma treatment and skin therapy.	[39]
	in vitro (total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activities—DPPH ABTS)	The results indicated that V. volvacea exhibited the highest protein content (28.70%) and ash content (9.48%). Significant differences were observed between some tray-dried and freeze-dried mushrooms. Tray drying generally enhanced the total phenolic content, as well as DPPH and ABTS antioxidant activities in P. ostreatus, P. pulmonarius and L. edodes. Among the five mushroom species studied, both methanol and hot water extractions of 10 g of V. volvacea yielded the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant values for DPPH and ABTS, with no significant differences between tray-dried and freeze-dried methods. Additionally, hot water extracts provided higher yields of gallic acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid compared to methanol extracts. Consequently, tray-dried V. volvacea demonstrated the greatest potential as a natural antioxidant.	[40]
Schizophyllum commune	in vitro (ABTS, DPPH mouse B16F10 cells)	In this study, S. commune strains from various provinces in China were screened for schizophyllan production. The strain NTU-1, which produced a high yield of schizophyllan, was selected for further evaluation. The bioactivity of schizophyllan from NTU-1 was assessed, revealing its potential for skincare due to its antioxidant, anti-photoaging and melanin-inhibiting properties. The optimal concentration for antioxidant activity was found to be 2.0 mg/mL, while the maximum UVB protection was achieved at 1 mg/mL.	[41]
	in vitro (DPPH, FRAP)	Antioxidant properties of hot water extract (HWE), hot water-extracted polysaccharides (HWP) and hot alkali-extracted polysaccharides (HWAE) from the fruiting bodies of Schizophyllum commune were analyzed. All extracts contained both α- and β-glucans, with glucose as the predominant monosaccharide. The total phenol content decreased in the order HWP ≈ HWE > HWAE. The median effective concentrations (EC50) for antioxidant activities were 8.3 ± 0.1 mg/mL for HWE, 6.9 ± 0.0 mg/mL for HWP and 8.9 ± 0.1 mg/mL for HWAE. For DPPH scavenging activity, EC50 values were 0.8 ± 0.0 mg/mL (HWE), 0.6 ± 0.0 mg/mL (HWP) and 1.8 ± 0.0 mg/mL (HWAE). Reducing power EC50 values were 7.6 ± 0.1 mg/mL (HWE), 7.9 ± 0.0 mg/mL (HWP) and 12.5 ± 0.1 mg/mL (HWAE). For ferrous ion chelation, EC50 values were 3.1 ± 0.0 mg/mL (HWE), 4.6 ± 0.1 mg/mL (HWP) and 4.9 ± 0.1 mg/mL (HWAE). The EC50 values for antioxidant activity, DPPH scavenging and reducing power were positively correlated with both total polysaccharide and total phenol content.	[42]
	in vitro DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, human skin fibroblasts (HSF)	This study assessed the antioxidant activities of two polysaccharides, intracellular polysaccharides (IPS) and extracellular polysaccharides (EPS), at biochemical, cellular and molecular levels using an H2O2-induced oxidative damage model in fibroblasts. Both IPS and EPS demonstrated significant antioxidant effects, improving cellular levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA). Molecular analysis revealed that both polysaccharides enhanced the expression of a transcription factor that regulates antioxidant genes while inhibiting the expression of a negative feedback gene. The optimal concentrations of IPS and EPS were determined to be 2.5 mg/mL.	[43]
	in vitro (DPPH, FRAP, Scavenging effect on superoxide SOA, tyrosinase inhibition activity)	The study found that extracting Schizophyllum commune at 4 °C or 30 °C for 1 h yielded extracts (10 mg/mL) with the highest anti-pigmentation effects, achieving 94.2% and 95.4% inhibition, respectively. At 4 °C, shorter extraction times were more effective for ferric-reducing and DPPH-radical scavenging activities, while results at 30 °C varied. Therefore, the optimal conditions for obtaining effective cosmeceutical properties from S. commune are 30 °C extraction for 1 h.	[44]
	in vitro (the abdominal skin of female hairless guinea pigs (strain IAF/HA-hrBR)) in vivo (New Zealand albino rabbit)	This study aimed to evaluate the impact of papain, a proteolytic enzyme, on drug percutaneous absorption. To ensure enzyme stability during skin penetration, papain was conjugated with glucan. The Schizophyllum commune glucan-papain conjugate significantly enhanced the percutaneous absorption of antipyrine. Microscopic analysis revealed an increase in the thickness of the stratum corneum and viable epidermis following treatment with the conjugate. These structural changes are likely due to the hydrolysis of extensive cross-linking in corneocyte envelopes and intracellular proteins. Importantly, the S. commune glucan-papain conjugate did not cause skin irritation according to the Draize test. The cumulative absorption of antipyrine over 10 h was approximately eleven times higher compared to the control when skin was pre-treated with a 2.0% conjugate solution.	[59]
Inonotus obliquus	in vitro (human dermal fibroblasts) in vivo (female SKH-1 hairless mice)	Pretreatment with Inonotus obliquus effectively scavenged intracellular reactive oxygen species and prevented lipid peroxidation in hydrogen peroxide-treated human fibroblasts. The ROS scavenging activity of I. obliquus was 33% at a concentration of 25 µg/mL, compared to 7% inhibition in untreated cells. Additionally, I. obliquus exhibited protective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis and premature senescence in fibroblasts. In vivo, I. obliquus also mitigated UV-induced skin changes, including thickening and wrinkle formation, in hairless mice and enhanced collagen synthesis by inhibiting metalloproteinase activity. Control cell viability decreased to 48.4% following hydrogen peroxide treatment, while treatment with I. obliquus at 25 µg/mL restored cell viability to 69.5%.	[45]
	in vitro (human dermal fibroblast cells HDF)	Double-strand RNA (dsRNA), which can trigger inflammation, is generated by necrotic keratinocytes in the skin. Inotodiol, a natural lanostane-type triterpenoid isolated from Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom), is known for its significant pharmacological and anti-inflammatory properties. This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of inotodiol on poly(I:C)-induced inflammation in fibroblasts. The results demonstrated that inotodiol effectively mitigates inflammation induced by poly(I:C) in fibroblasts. Poly(I:C) at concentrations ranging from 0 to 80 µg/mL did not cause cytotoxicity, while inotodiol showed approximately 70% cytotoxicity at concentrations of 20 µg/mL or higher.	[46]
	in vitro (human keratinocyte HaCaT)	A lanostane triterpenoid-rich concentrate from Inonotus obliquus (Chaga), containing 10% inotodiol, was compared with pure inotodiol for anti-inflammatory effects on a human keratinocyte cell line. Both were tested under various conditions, including UVB irradiation and tumor necrosis factor. Pure inotodiol effectively suppressed interleukin-induced inflammation at 0.44–4.0 μg/mL. UVB-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly reduced by both pure inotodiol and the inotodiol concentrate. The concentrate also modulated collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis, with decreased mRNA expression of cytokines at 2.5 µg/mL. Inotodiol was non-toxic at concentrations up to 20 µg/mL, with cell viability above 70%.	[47]
Pleurotus ostreatus	in vitro (DPPH, ABTS, Hs68—Human Foreskin Fibroblast cell line)	This study examined the effects of Pleurotus ostreatus polysaccharides (POP) on fibroblasts. POP-40, POP-60 and POP-80 were extracted using 40%, 60% and 80% ethanol gradient precipitation, respectively. The results demonstrated that these polysaccharides exhibited significant DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, water-retention capacity and inhibition of collagenase and elastase, with POP-80 showing the highest efficacy. Following UVA irradiation, fibroblasts exhibited increased reactive oxygen species, senescent cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, pretreatment with 50 μg/mL of polysaccharides notably reduced reactive oxygen species and the number of senescent cells, decreased NF-κB activity and inhibited interleukin-6.	[48]
	in vitro (human keratinocyte HaCaT and fibroblast (HFF-1) cell lines)	In vitro safety assessments of the extracts and cosmetic formulations were conducted using keratinocyte and fibroblast cell lines. The results indicated that the extracts did not exhibit toxicity to either cell type, demonstrating their safety for use in cosmeceuticals. Protocatechuic and syringic acids were the only compounds from Ganoderma lucidum extract that penetrated within the first 8 h, while phenolic acids from Pleurotus ostreatus extract showed no penetration. In HaCaT cells, exposure to the extracts maintained up to 90% cell viability at 100 μg/mL. However, at the highest concentration tested (10 mg/mL), a significant reduction in cell viability was observed.	[49]
	human clinical studies (face and body in 20 human subjects with all skin types) (sensitive, atopic and normal) and phototype II and III)	This study aimed to assess the soothing effects of a β-glucan pleuran-based cream on skin damage induced by UV exposure (UVA/UVB). The cream significantly reduced erythema compared to the control. Over a 30-day period, it improved various skin parameters, including moisture, brightness, elasticity and total antioxidant capacity. The cream formulation comprised the following ingredients: aqua (72.0%), glycerin (5.0%), Helianthus annuus seed oil (7.0%), stearic acid (3.0%), cetyl alcohol (3.0%), β-glucan (from Pleurotus ostreatus, 2.0%), sorbitan stearate (1.0%), polysorbate 60 (1.0%), phenoxyethanol (1.0%), tocopherol (0.5%), allantoin (0.5%), xanthan gum (0.5%) and citric acid (0.5%).	[50]
	in vivo (66 female mice)	This study investigated the wound-healing properties of topical Pleurotus ostreatus extract in albino mice using an excisional wound model. The extract, formulated with Vaseline at 5% and 10% concentrations, significantly enhanced wound closure and improved histopathological and immunohistochemical parameters. The 10% (w/w) concentration was found to be safe and effective, with no adverse effects observed over a 14-day period.	[51]
	in vitro	Free amino acids, key components of the natural moisturizing factor, are crucial for maintaining skin hydration, and their deficiency can lead to dry skin conditions. This study aimed to analyze the free amino acid content in selected Ethiopian plant and fungal species, specifically Pleurotus ostreatus. The extract of Pleurotus ostreatus was found to contain a high concentration of free amino acids, with a total content of 400.01 mg/g.	[52]
Agaricus blazei	in vitro (cell line B16F10 from skin tissue of a mouse with melanoma; human dermal fibroblast; RAW 264.7 cell—Macrophage from blood; keratinocytes HaCaT)	The extract of Agaricus blazei demonstrated inhibition of melanin synthesis, enhanced collagen production and upregulated the expression of hyaluronan synthase-2, hyaluronan synthase-3 and aquaporin-3 at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. The identified components of the extract include ergosterol (1), 5-dihydroergosterol (2), cerevisterol (3), cerebroside B (4), cerebroside D (5), adenosine (6) and benzoic acid (7). Among these, 5-dihydroergosterol (2) inhibited melanogenesis in B16F10 cells and promoted collagen synthesis in human dermal fibroblasts. Additionally, cerevisterol (3), cerebroside B (4) and cerebroside D (5) reduced nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 cells. Notably, cerebroside D (5) increased the expression of hyaluronan synthase-2 and aquaporin-3 genes in keratinocytes.	[53]
	in vitro (normal human epidermal melanocytes (NHEM); Murine monocyte/macrophage RAW264.7 cells culture)	The effects of Agaricus blazei on tyrosinase activity were assessed using L-tyrosine and L-DOPA in normal human epidermal melanocytes. The extract inhibited tyrosinase activity in a dose-dependent manner, similar to arbutin and Vitamin C. Treatment with Agaricus blazei extract (3–100 µg/mL) reduced melanin content by up to 57% compared to the control. The extract also suppressed NO production in melanocytes and in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, without affecting iNOS mRNA expression. These findings suggest that Agaricus blazei extract inhibits melanin production by partially inhibiting tyrosinase activity and reducing NO production.	[54]
	in vitro (B16-F10 mouse melanoma cell line)	The methanol extract of Agaricus brasiliensis demonstrated significant inhibition of melanin synthesis and reduced expression of melanogenesis-related proteins. It decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and inhibited mushroom tyrosinase activity. The extract showed an IC50 of 0.713 mg/mL for intracellular tyrosinase activity and an IC50 of 0.711 mg/mL for melanin reduction in B16F10 cells. Additionally, it lowered the protein expression of tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein 1. These results indicate that Agaricus brasiliensis methanol extract effectively inhibits melanogenesis and reduces intracellular reactive oxygen species in B16F10 cells.	[55]
Volvariella volvacea	in vitro (Human dermal skin fibroblast cells) Human clinical studies (20 healthy volunteers with no historical skin allergy)	Polysaccharides from Volvariella volvacea were evaluated for cosmetic applications and in vivo efficacy. Three extraction methods—hot water shaking (HS), microwave-assisted (MA) and ultrasonic-assisted (UA)—were compared. HS yielded the highest extraction rate (15.58 ± 0.96% w/w) and beta-glucan content (18.80 ± 0.81% w/w). HS polysaccharides demonstrated the strongest inhibition of lipid peroxidation (IC50 = 0.0378 mg/mL), tyrosinase (51.46 mg KAE/g) and elastase (604.21 ± 73.66 mg EGCG/g). The polysaccharides showed no cytotoxicity to human dermal fibroblasts. The cream containing these polysaccharides, though offering lower sun protection factor, significantly enhanced skin moisture, gross elasticity, net elasticity and firmness. The cream formulation included deionized water, sodium acrylates/beheneth-25 methacrylate crosspolymer, hydrogenated polydecene, lauryl glucoside, hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, squalane, polysorbate 60, citric acid, isopropyl myristate, V. volvacea polysaccharides (0.2%, 0.5%, 1.0%) and phenoxyethanol.	[56]
	in vitro (the human fibroblasts)	Eleven mushrooms were extracted using three methods: hot aqueous (HW), sonicated aqueous (SW) and macerated ethanolic (ME). The sonicated aqueous extract of Volvariella volvacea (VV SW) exhibited the highest total phenolic content (6.68 mg GAE) and polysaccharide content (0.069 mg GLU). It also demonstrated the greatest DPPH radical scavenging activity, lipid peroxidation inhibition and collagen biosynthesis stimulation, with collagen biosynthesis at 146.77 ± 13.20% of the negative control, significantly surpassing ascorbic acid by approximately 1.14 times.	[57]
	in vitro (abdominal skin the male Sprague–Dawley rats)	This study investigated the incorporation of Volvariella volvacea extract into niosomes and assessed the physicochemical properties of these niosomes and the gel containing them. Transdermal absorption through rat skin was evaluated using Franz diffusion cells over 6 h, comparing niosome-loaded extract with a solution of the extract. Niosomes demonstrated greater chemical stability for total phenolic contents compared to the extract solution. They had a mean size of 254 ± 20.32 nm and exhibited a negative zeta potential. While niosomes initially reduced the cumulative and flux amounts of total phenolics in the first hour, they significantly enhanced skin permeation by the sixth hour. Overall, niosomes achieved the highest percentage of total phenolic content permeation through rat skin.	[58]