Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Microscopic Fungi-Derived Substances Against Ehrlich Carcinoma: Insights from In Vivo Studies

Cancer remains a major global health challenge, necessitating continuous exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. The anticancer potential of intracellular biologically active substances NL-51, Mucor sp. M II-12, Penicillium Gz 9-10, and Gz 9-4 derived from microscopic fungi were investigated in Ehrlich's carcinoma-bearing lab. mice. Results showed that M II-12 significantly extended mouse lifespan and inhibited tumor growth compared to controls and other samples. Gz 9-10 and Gz 9-4 exhibited moderate effects, while NL-51 showed no favorable impact. The colorimetric assay revealed proteolytic activity in all samples.  Although  M II-12 additionally revealed inhibitory activity against proteolytic enzymes that support the cancer growth  it does not inhibit the proteolytic enzyme present in tested M II-12 solution itself. It is believed that the synergistic action of these enzymes and inhibitors contributed to the observed  anticancer effect. Conclusion.  These findings demonstrated the anti-cancer potential of Mucor sp. M II-12. Further research focusing on elucidating the specific mechanisms underlying these effects could provide valuable insights for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against cancer.