ABSTRACT
The major immuno-modulating effects of Ganoderma lucidum include mitogenicity and activation of immune effector cells such as T cells, macrophages and natural killer cells resulting in the production of cytokines. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the expression of CD40 and CD80 by G. lucidum-treated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Monocytes were isolated and incubated at 37°C and 5% CO[2] for 24 h and 48 h in the presence or absence of different concentrations of G. lucidum. Cells were then incubated with labelled monoclonal antibodies against CD14, CD40 and B7-1[CD80] molecules utilizing standard protocols, and analyzed by flow cytometry. The results showed that incubation of monocytes with G. lucidum led to marked enhancement of CD40 and B7-1 expression in a doseand time- dependent manner [p < 0.001]. G. lucidum was more effective in enhancing the expression of CD80 and CD40 molecules of cells obtained from females than male donors [p < 0.001]. G. lucidum enhanced the expression of CD40 and CD80 molecules on peripheral blood monocytic cells derived from both sexes in a dosedependent manner, with a preferential higher effect on cells obtained from female donors