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Around the world, people are increasingly turning to natural remedies to improve their pet’s health. One such remedy is through mushrooms, which contain powerful compounds and substances that may assist the immune system. Recent studies suggest that Agaricus blazei Murill supplementation may also help supercharge natural killer cells support in our furry friends. Read on to learn more about these potential health benefits.  

NK cells: The Unsung Heroes of the Immune System  

Natural killer (NK) cells, also called large granular lymphocytes (LGL), are critical components of the body’s innate immune system, which, unlike the acquired immune system, requires much less to trigger activation. This type of lymphocyte represents up to 20% of all lymphocytes in circulation, making it one of the most important lines of defense against viruses, bacteria, toxins, and other foreign substances.  

Unlike B and T cells, which require full major histocompatibility complex (MHC) detection, Natural killer lymphocytes can spot cells with down-regulated major histocompatibility complex I (MHC I), which allows it to spring into action much quicker to prevent replication and spread of potentially destructive pathogens. NK cells, therefore, are critical agents that can buy both the B and T cells some time to  get primed to directly fight off pathogens by preventing the replication and spread of infected cells and tissues.  

What Low NK Cell Count Means for my Pet  

While low levels of NK cells do not necessarily affect the body’s normal day-to-day functioning, it does serve as an important marker for other underlying health conditions. For example, there are correlational links between low NK cell count to immune system disorders and viral infections.  

Furthermore, hosts with low NK cell count had infections spread across their bodies unabated. Researchers who performed a cohort study of people living with CVID, which is known to deplete NK cells in circulation, have found that the lack of this particular lymphocyte contributes to a higher frequency of severe bacterial infections and other non-infectious complications. The study further suggests that NK cell deficiency may even lead to increased mortality rates caused by both infectious and non-infectious pathogens.  

Raising Immunity Through Natural Killer Cells Support 

A growing number of proponents suggest a link between probiotics and NK cell activation. Dendritic cells (DC) are instrumental in sampling for any pathogen that may have invaded the body, which helps immensely in routing NK cell activity to where they are needed. Researchers posit that since DC is heavily influenced by probiotics, supplementing certain microbiota might also promote NK cell activation. In essence, probiotic supplementation should positively affect NK cell support  as well.  

Scientists also suggest brief exercise is also an excellent way to boost NK cell count in the bloodstream. Specifically, running up a 150-step staircase demonstrates an immediate increase in cytotoxic NK cells in circulation. However, it is important to note that the effects of intensity, duration, and other exercise factors have also shown negative effects on the NK cell count.  

Beta-glucan is also a possible candidate for increasing NK cell count in circulation and enhancing cytotoxicity. Specifically, it targets complement receptor 3 (CR3), a broad-spectrum mediator for cytotoxicity. This allows NK cells to stay primed for a longer period. It also expanded the ratio of its target-binding lymphocytes and the range of the damaged target cells that it binds with.  

Why Agaricus blazei Murill is the Perfect NK Cell Booster  

One promising ingredient that can bring the benefits of beta-glucan to NK cells is the Agaricus blazei Murill (AbM) mushroom. Studies show that beta-glucan extracts from the medicinal mushroom effectively raise the NK cell-mediated cytotoxic activity, which is paramount in the metastasis inhibition of invasive foreign bodies.  

AbM-based supplements reinforced with probiotics should be an excellent NK cell booster. While the probiotic expands surveillance, the AbM extracts rich in beta-glucan can boost the NK cell count in circulation while prolonging cytotoxicity.  

AbM: The Perfect Immune-Boosting Mushroom Supplement  

NK cells are an important part of the immune system and play a crucial role in defending the body against health problems. Unfortunately, low levels of Natural Killer cells can leave our pets susceptible to fight pathogens, but the good news is, providing your pets with Agaricus blazei Murill mushroom supplements can help support NK cells which may help pets weather any health issues that come their way. Making this product the perfect choice to support pet’s immunity and increase lifespan.

For educational purposes. No product claims implied.