Sanghuangporus Sanghuang Supplementation to Improve Anti-Fatigue Performance in Healthy Adults

This study is designed to investigate the efficacy of Sanghuangporus sanghuang mycelia (SS-MN4) capsules in improving anti-fatigue capacity and muscle performance in healthy adult males without regular exercise habits. The clinical trial is based on preclinical studies showing that hispidin-rich SS-MN4 extracts exert protective effects on muscle cells exposed to dexamethasone-induced damage, suggesting potential benefits for preventing muscle fatigue and atrophy.

With muscle mass and strength declining steadily after age 30, sedentary lifestyles can further accelerate sarcopenia, metabolic dysfunction, and poor physical performance. The development of effective functional ingredients to combat fatigue and muscle deterioration is crucial in modern health promotion, especially in aging populations. Sanghuangporus sanghuang is a traditional medicinal fungus with demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fatigue properties, making it a promising candidate for functional supplementation.

This is a randomized, double-blind, two-arm, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 60 healthy male participants aged 20 to 35 years will be recruited. They will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: the intervention group will receive two SS-MN4 capsules daily (1000 mg/day), and the placebo group will receive identical capsules with inert content. The intervention period will last 42 days, followed by a 4-week follow-up.

Primary outcome measures include changes in biochemical fatigue markers such as creatine kinase (CK), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), cortisol, and testosterone. Muscle function and physical performance will be evaluated through anaerobic power testing, isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), vertical jump testing, and endurance tests. Blood and urine samples will be collected at multiple time points (pre-intervention, mid-intervention, post-intervention, and during recovery after exhaustive exercise). Muscle damage indicators (e.g., MDA, myoglobin, 3-methylhistidine/creatinine ratio) will also be assessed.

Secondary outcomes include body composition (measured via DEXA), nutritional intake analysis (via the Cofit app and professional nutritionist review), and gut microbiota profiling using 16S rRNA sequencing. All assessments will be conducted in compliance with Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare anti-fatigue health food evaluation guidelines, and supervised by qualified professionals.

The results will provide clinical evidence supporting SS-MN4 as a novel functional ingredient for enhancing exercise performance and reducing fatigue. Findings will be used for potential health food certification applications and for supporting international marketing of SS-MN4 as a scientifically validated supplement.

Inclusion criteria

• Healthy male participants aged between 20 and 35 years
• Non-smokers and non-drinkers
• Not currently taking any dietary supplements or medications
• Normal liver and kidney function
• No chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease
• Willing and able to provide written informed consent
• Able to comply with study procedures and schedule

Exclusion criteria

• Current or past diagnosis of any cardiovascular, liver, kidney, or metabolic disease
• Regular use of dietary supplements, sports nutrition products, or energy drinks
• Known food allergies or intolerances, particularly to mushrooms or herbal products
• Engaging in regular resistance or endurance training in the last 6 months
• Currently taking medications that may interfere with study outcomes
• Smoking or alcohol consumption
• Participation in other clinical trials within the last 3 months