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Effect of Cordyceps spp. and Cordycepin on Functions of Bones and Teeth and Related Processes: A Review

Summary

This research examines how medicinal mushrooms called Cordyceps and their compounds affect bone and dental health. The studies show these mushrooms could help prevent bone loss, promote bone healing, and support dental health through various biological mechanisms. This has important implications for treating conditions like osteoporosis and supporting bone/dental health. Key impacts on everyday life: – Could provide natural alternatives for preventing and treating bone loss conditions like osteoporosis – May help speed up healing of bone injuries and fractures – Shows potential for improving dental treatments and oral health – Could lead to new regenerative medicines for bone and dental tissue – May provide complementary treatments to support bone health during aging

Background

Cordyceps spp. are entomopathogenic mushrooms traditionally used in Asian ethnomedicine. They are unique parasites of moth larvae and Cordyceps militaris is one of the best sources of cordycepin. Osteoporosis is a common bone disease requiring new therapeutic interventions. Adenosine receptors may regulate proliferation, differentiate dental pulp stem cells and bone marrow, and modulate osteogenesis and bone repair.

Objective

To collect and analyze available data on the effects of Cordyceps spp. or cordycepin on bone function and related processes. This is the first systematic review examining not just mushroom raw material or isolated cordycepin, but also new nucleoside analogs from C. militaris.

Results

Studies showed Cordyceps spp. and cordycepin interact via adenosine receptors, AMPK, and ATP signaling pathways. Effects included inhibition of osteoclast differentiation, prevention of bone loss, increased bone mineral density, and promotion of osteogenesis. Cordycepin was found to influence dental pulp stem cells and showed potential for bone regeneration. The compounds demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties relevant to bone health.

Conclusion

Cordyceps spp. and cordycepin show potential for developing regenerative medicines and new treatment methods for recovery after traumatic injuries, convalescence, and terminal-stage diseases. The compounds’ effects on purinergic signaling pathways may be crucial for bone repair and rebuilding. Further research is needed on both natural compounds and synthetic analogs.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/molecules27238170
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