active hexose correlated compound

Active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) is a proprietary, standardized extract derived from the cultured mycelia of shiitake mushrooms (*Lentinula edodes*). [1, 4] Developed and manufactured in Japan by Amino Up Co., Ltd., AHCC is a functional food rich in polysaccharides, including acetylated alpha-glucans, which are believed to contribute to its biological activity. [1, 5] It is marketed as a dietary supplement for immune support. [3, 9] Pre-clinical and clinical research suggests that AHCC acts as an immunomodulator by stimulating various components of the innate and adaptive immune systems. [5, 17] Its proposed mechanism involves the activation of immune cells such as Natural Killer (NK) cells, T-cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages, and the modulation of cytokine production, partly through agonism of Toll-like receptors 2 and 4. [1, 2, 4] AHCC is being investigated in clinical trials for its potential to support the clearance of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and as an adjunctive therapy for cancer patients to improve quality of life. [16]

Brand names

AHCCKinoko GoldKinoko PlatinumImmPower

Other names

standardized extract of cultured Lentinula edodes mycelia