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The Biological Activity of Ganoderma lucidum on Neurodegenerative Diseases: The Interplay between Different Active Compounds and the Pathological Hallmarks

Summary

Reishi mushroom, used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries, contains over 400 bioactive compounds that show promise in protecting the brain from degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The mushroom’s components work through multiple pathways to reduce inflammation, fight oxidative stress, and protect neurons from damage. While laboratory and animal studies show encouraging results, human clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness as a treatment.

Background

Neurodegenerative diseases represent a cluster of progressive conditions affecting the nervous system with limited therapeutic options. Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal mushroom, contains diverse bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. This review examines the potential of active compounds from Ganoderma lucidum in modulating pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases.

Objective

To collate and examine existing research on bioactivity of active compounds and extracts from Ganoderma lucidum in modulating pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases. The review categorizes mechanisms of action and presents structural information of specific components to facilitate structure-activity relationship research.

Results

Most polysaccharides of Ganoderma lucidum possess neurotrophic effects through antioxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Ganoderic acids preferentially target specific pathogenic proteins and regulate autophagy. Components can overcome the blood-brain barrier and demonstrate efficacy against Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases.

Conclusion

Ganoderma lucidum’s active compounds show multi-target potential against neurodegenerative diseases through distinct mechanisms. Further clinical trials are necessary to assess translational potential for developing novel multi-target drugs. The review provides a framework for understanding the interplay between different components and pathological hallmarks.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Literature Review,
  • Source: PMID: 38893392, DOI: 10.3390/molecules29112516
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