Potential mutant of Lentinula edodes with high yield of (1-3), (1-6-), β-D-glucan

Lentinula edodes or better known as Shiitake mushroom contains β-1,3;1,6-glucan as part of the cell wall components and studies have shown that it has the ability to enhance the immune system and work as anticancer. The aim of this study was to create potential strain of L. edodes with the high content of β-1,3;1,6-glucan, which has the potential for biotechnological purposes. L. edodes spores were irradiated with gamma ray (Ɣ-rays) and incubated, which formed monokaryon mycelium (MM). Compatible mating of mutated monokaryon formed mutant line dikaryon mycelium (MLDM) that was selected for genotypic and phenotypic comparisons with the wild-type line dikaryon mycelium (WLDM). The concentration of β-1,3;1,6-glucan was measured using a commercial β-Glucan Megazyme Assay Kit (Yeast & Mushroom). Three MLDM (A37, A26, and C07) with 38.8, 36.0 and 34.5% (w/w) of 100 mg, respectively, significantly produced higher amount of β-1,3;1,6-glucan in comparison with WLDM (20.2% (w/w) of 100 mg).