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Polypore Mushroom Mycelia for Treatment of Active COVID-19 Infection: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Saxe, G.; Shubov, A.; Smith, C. N.; Golshan, S.; Shekhtman, T.; Wilson, S.; Slater, D.; Bair, Z. J.; Beathard, C.; Davis, R. A.; MacElhern, L.; Kao, L. K.; Senowitz, P.; Gosnell, N.; Buchholz, D.; Aguilar-Carreno, H.

2026-06-09 infectious diseases
10.64898/2026.06.01.26354267 medRxiv
Show abstract

Use of fungal mycelia, which has antiviral properties, constitutes a novel strategy for addressing existing and newly emerging viral diseases. We evaluated safety and feasibility of fungal mycelia (Fomitopsis officinalis and Trametes versicolor, FoTv) for treatment of COVID-19 and assessed its antiviral effects and potential to reduce symptoms. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dual site (UCSD/UCLA medical centers) clinical trial we examined non-hospitalized patients who contracted mild-to-moderate COVID-19 [≤] 96 hours, and experienced symptom onset [≤] nine days, before enrollment. FoTv was safe, well-tolerated, and feasible for COVID-19 treatment. Minor differences in biochemical markers were observed between groups (26 FoTv, 24 Placebo). FoTv significantly reduced the number and severity of symptoms, particularly sore throat/cough, and in vitro SARS-CoV-2 (pseudovirus) cellular infection. In conclusion, FoTv was safe and reduced COVID-19 symptoms and cellular viral infection. Future studies should investigate therapeutic benefits of fungal mycelia for SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses. Clinicaltrials.gov registration:NCT04667247.

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