Fungal Species: Cordyceps cicadae

Polysaccharides from Spores of Cordyceps cicadae Protect against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression and Oxidative Stress in Mice

Researchers extracted and studied special compounds called polysaccharides from the spores of Cordyceps cicadae, a medicinal fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine. When tested in mice treated with a cancer drug that suppresses immunity, one of these purified compounds (CCSP-2) successfully restored immune function and reduced harmful oxidative stress. The compound works by boosting the activity of immune cells and protecting the body’s natural antioxidant defense systems, suggesting it could potentially help cancer patients manage chemotherapy side effects.

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Genome Sequence, Comparative Genome Analysis, and Expression Profiling of the Chitinase GH18 Gene Family in Cordyceps javanica Bd01

Scientists sequenced the complete genome of Cordyceps javanica, a fungus used to control pest insects. They discovered that this fungus has an expanded family of 27 chitinase genes (GH18), which are enzymes that help the fungus penetrate insect exoskeletons. These genes show strong evolutionary conservation and stability, making them valuable for developing more effective natural pesticides and understanding how fungal biocontrol agents work.

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Optimization of Protoplast Preparation and Establishment of PEG-Mediated Genetic Transformation Method in Cordyceps cicadae

Scientists successfully developed a method to genetically modify Cordyceps cicadae, a valuable medicinal fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine. By optimizing how to remove the fungus’s protective cell wall and introducing new genes using a technique called PEG-mediated transformation, researchers created a stable system for genetic manipulation. This breakthrough opens the door for improving medicinal compounds in this fungus and advancing its use in treating various health conditions.

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The Potential of Naturally Derived Compounds for Treating Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review of Autophagy and Cellular Senescence

This review explores how natural products from traditional Chinese medicine may help treat chronic kidney disease by targeting two key aging processes: autophagy (cellular self-cleaning) and cellular senescence (cellular aging). Common natural compounds like curcumin, green tea extract, and Astragalus have shown promise in protecting kidney function and reducing harmful inflammation. While these natural treatments show potential as complementary therapies alongside mainstream medicines, more clinical research is needed to confirm their effectiveness and determine optimal dosages.

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Mitochondrial genome characterization, evolution and intron dynamics of the entomopathogenic genus Cordyceps

This research examined the genetic instruction manuals (mitochondrial DNA) of seven different Cordyceps fungal species. Scientists found that these fungi have varying amounts of genetic material, primarily due to differences in introns—sections that can be inserted or removed from genes. By comparing their genomes, researchers clarified how different Cordyceps species are related to each other evolutionarily, providing better tools for identifying and classifying these medically valuable fungi.

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Comparative Metabolite Profiling Between Cordyceps sinensis and Other Cordyceps by Untargeted UHPLC-MS/MS

This research compares the chemical compounds found in authentic Cordyceps sinensis with four similar but different Cordyceps species to identify which ones are real. Using advanced laboratory techniques, scientists detected thousands of chemical differences between the species. They found that genuine C. sinensis contains higher levels of specific beneficial compounds like nucleosides and certain fatty acids. These findings help consumers and merchants distinguish authentic Cordyceps from counterfeit products and lower-quality substitutes.

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A Model of the Current Geographic Distribution and Predictions of Future Range Shifts of Lentinula edodes in China Under Multiple Climate Change Scenarios

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) are popular edible mushrooms found throughout China with high nutritional value including immune-boosting compounds. This study used computer modeling to map where these mushrooms currently grow and predict where they might be found as climate change continues. The research found that shiitake mushrooms will likely lose significant habitat area and shift northward and westward as temperatures rise and precipitation patterns change, suggesting urgent conservation measures are needed to protect wild populations.

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Anticancer Activity of Demethylincisterol A3 and Related Incisterol-Type Fungal Products

This review examines a group of rare fungal compounds called incisterols, with a focus on demethylincisterol A3 (DM-A3), which has shown promise as an anticancer agent. DM-A3 works through multiple mechanisms including blocking cancer cell signaling pathways, inhibiting specific enzymes, and reducing inflammation. The compound has demonstrated effectiveness against various cancer types in laboratory studies and showed tumor-reducing effects in animal models, suggesting potential for future cancer therapy development.

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Telomere-to-Telomere Assembly of the Cordyceps militaris CH1 Genome and Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses Provide New Insights into Cordycepin Biosynthesis Under Light Stress

Researchers successfully sequenced the complete genome of Cordyceps militaris CH1, a medicinal fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine. By exposing the fungus to light and analyzing gene expression and metabolite changes, they discovered that light stress activates key genes involved in producing cordycepin, the main active medicinal compound. This breakthrough provides a foundation for improving cordycepin production in artificial cultivation, making this valuable medicine more affordable and accessible.

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The Genus Cordyceps Sensu Lato: Their Chemical Constituents, Biological Activities, and Therapeutic Effects on Air Pollutants Related to Lung and Vascular Diseases

Cordyceps mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and are now being studied scientifically for their potential health benefits. These mushrooms contain powerful compounds that may help protect our lungs from air pollution effects and support heart health. Recent clinical studies show promising results for treating conditions like COPD, asthma, and even improving athletic performance in healthy people.

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