AHCC is an extract of mycelium, obtained through the long-term cultivation of several types of basidiomycetes medicinal mushrooms including Shiitake. After undergoing enzymatic decomposition, concentration, and freeze-drying, AHCC is obtained from the cultured liquid. Active components of AHCC include glucans and an oligosaccharide. AHCC is also a mixture of polysaccharides, amino acids, lipids and minerals.

AHCC ® (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) is a proprietary compound produced by cultivation and enzymatic modification of several species of mushroom mycelia, including shiitake, grown in rice bran extract.  Considered a superfood supplement in Japan, AHCC has been researched extensively for its immune enhancement properties.  According to human and animal research AHCC may increase natural killer cell activity.  AHCC may also increase macrophage activity, enhance cytokine production, and support the healthy functioning of the liver as well as act as an antioxidant.

Studies in mice show AHCC:
Enhances resistance to infection
Enhances natural killer cell activity
Protects the liver from injury induced by toxic or anti- cancer agents.
AHCC may have potential as an immune enhancing agent in the therapy of opportunistic infections.
AHCC reduces breast cancer metastasis in mice when combined with chemotherapy agents.
AHCC may even have antioxidant properties.

Studies in humans show AHCC:
Has protective effects on the liver in cases of liver injury, cirrhosis, or hepatitis.
AHCC and cancer -- one study shows AHCC improves the prognosis in patients with hepatocellular cancer however several more studies are needed before determining the role of AHCC in cancer treatment in humans.

AHCC Dosage
Many of the studies in humans have used dosages of AHCC of about 3 grams a day. The ideal dosage AHCC in cancer or other conditions for long term use is still being evaluated.

Summary
More research with AHCC and cancer is needed before making any firm recommendations on effectiveness, dosage, frequency and length of use, interactions with radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and the conditions for which this interesting compound can be useful. Thus far much of the AHCC and cancer research looks promising but few are have been done in humans.