Unveiling the Role and Mechanism of Mycoprotein for Reducing Cardiovascular Risk

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have the highest mortality rates worldwide. To re- duce the risk of CVDs, dietary interventions are a potential approach. This review explores the potential of mycoprotein, a fungal-derived protein, as a dietary approach for maintaining car- diovascular health. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using various databases (Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, EBSCO, PubMed) and government web- sites (WHO, CDC) to identify relevant studies. Mycoprotein provides essential amino acids with high bioavailability (0.996) while containing minimal saturated fat (1.5 grams) and high fiber (6 grams). Clinical studies have shown that mycoprotein consumption reduces cholester- ol, improves lipid profiles, and potentially lowers blood pressure, possibly due to its impact on gut microbiota (GM) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production. The intestinal fermenta- tion of mycoprotein fiber increases the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria, binds to G- protein coupled receptors like GPR41 and 43 to promote vasodilation, inhibits the angiotensin- converting enzyme, and reduces hepatic cholesterol production. Chitin and beta-glucan, the primary fiber of mycoprotein, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to overall cardiovascular health. The study concludes that mycoprotein is a sustainable and nutri- tious alternative, and its consumption promotes cardiovascular health and reduces CVD risks.