# Modern Pro-Health Applications of Medicinal Mushrooms: Insights into the Polyporaceae Family, with a Focus on Cerrena unicolor

## TL;DR

This review highlights the health benefits of Cerrena unicolor, a medicinal mushroom, and its potential in functional foods and biotechnology.

## Contribution

The paper introduces C. unicolor as a novel source for bioactive compounds in food systems with anticancer and antimicrobial properties.

## Key findings

- C. unicolor contains polysaccharides, phenolics, and enzymes with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Its incorporation into dairy-based systems enhances bioavailability and therapeutic potential for cancer and metabolic health.
- The mushroom shows strong antimicrobial activity, suggesting use as a natural food preservative.

## Abstract

Fungal-derived bioactive compounds are emerging as key components in functional food development, offering new opportunities for health-promoting formulations. The Polyporaceae family, particularly Cerrena unicolor, has demonstrated significant potential due to its rich biochemical profile and diverse health benefits. Despite its extensive bioactive properties, its application in food science and biotechnology remains underutilized. This review explores the bioactive composition, technological potential, and functional applications of C. unicolor in innovative food systems. We analyze its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects, focusing on its interactions with dairy-based matrices to enhance bioavailability and therapeutic potential. C. unicolor is a valuable source of polysaccharides, phenolics, and enzymatic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its anticancer potential, especially when incorporated into dairy fermentations, opens new avenues for oncology-focused functional foods. Strong antimicrobial activity suggests its potential as a natural biopreservative or bioactive food additive. Bioactive fractions contribute to metabolic health improvements (diabetes management) and tissue regeneration, highlighting their role in next-generation nutraceuticals. Incorporating C. unicolor into functional food systems represents a cutting-edge approach to biotechnology-driven health solutions. Further research is required to optimize its formulation, improve bioavailability, and explore regulatory pathways for market implementation.