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Dubhashi S, Sinha S, Dwivedi S, Ghanekar J, Kadam S, Samant P, Datta V, Singh S, Chaudry IH, Gurmet P, Kelkar H, Mishra R, Galwankar S, Agrawal A. Early Trends to Show the Efficacy of Cordyceps militaris in Mild to Moderate COVID Inflammation. Cureus 2023; 15:e43731. [PMID: 37727187 PMCID: PMC10505833 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/objective Cordyceps enhances animal survival against influenza by boosting the immune system. In animal studies, it also had anti-inflammatory and preventive properties. Cordyceps stimulates the immune system by increasing the activity and production of various immune cells. Some studies have shown the role of Cordyceps in the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to other respiratory diseases caused by the Picorna viruses, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and Influenza viruses. However, it remains unknown whether this food supplement is safe and has anti-inflammatory effects in patients with COVID-19. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the use and efficacy of Cordyceps capsules as an adjunct to standard treatment in patients with mild (symptomatic) to moderate COVID-19 infection. Methods A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Cordyceps capsules (a food supplement) 500 mg as adjuvant therapy in patients with COVID-19. The rationale for dose selection was as per the existing evidence from toxicity studies. The inclusion criteria were patients with either a mild or moderate COVID-19 infection. Clinical features suggestive of dyspnoea or hypoxia, fever, and cough, including SpO2 <94% (range 90-94%) on room air and a respiratory rate ≥24 per minute, were also included. Results Sixty-five patients were recruited for the study, with 33 in the Cordyceps group and 32 in the placebo group. Out of 58 evaluable patients, 33 recovered on day 5, 49 on day 10, and 58 on days 16 and 30. The recovery of patients steadily increased from 56.9% on day 5 to 100% on day 30. The time to clinical recovery was shorter in the Cordyceps group than in the placebo group (mean 6.6 vs. 7.3 days; p > 0.05) overall and for mild disease. However, there was no difference in the time to recovery (time from day 1 to the resolution of all symptoms) for moderate disease. A lower frequency of normal chest X-rays on day 1 and a higher number on day 16 in the treatment group than in the placebo group suggest an improvement in the number of normal chest X-rays with Cordyceps. Significant changes were seen in biomarkers MCPIP, CxCL10, and IL-1β for overall (both mild and moderate patients) on days 5 and 10 as compared to baseline, and in biomarkers CRP and CxCL10 in moderate category patients on days 5 and 10, respectively. There were no statistically significant changes in IL-6, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), or D-dimer levels between baseline and day 5/10 in patients taking Cordyceps capsules and also between the treatment and placebo groups. Conclusion Cordyceps capsules administered at a dose of 500 mg three times a day along with supportive treatment showed effectiveness in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 infection, as evidenced by the proportionately higher number of recoveries on day 5, the relatively shorter time for improvement of clinical symptoms, and the proportionately higher number of patients showing negative RT-PCR tests on day 10. Thus, Cordyceps appears to be a safe immunological adjuvant for the treatment of patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19. Future studies with a larger sample size would shed more light on the evidence, as there are limitations in the generalizability of the results from the present study due to the small sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sagar Sinha
- Emergency Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Sankalp Dwivedi
- General Surgery, Maharishi Markandeshwar (MM) Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, IND
| | - Jaishree Ghanekar
- Internal Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Sameer Kadam
- Cardiovascular Surgery, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Parineeta Samant
- Biochemistry, Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, IND
| | - Vibha Datta
- Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Nagpur, Nagpur, IND
| | - Sarman Singh
- Medical Science and Engineering Research (MEDSER) Center, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, IND
| | | | - Padma Gurmet
- Miscellaneous, National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa, Leh, IND
| | | | - Rakesh Mishra
- Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Bhopal, IND
| | - Sagar Galwankar
- Emergency Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Sarasota, USA
| | - Amit Agrawal
- Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Bhopal, IND
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Savioli FP, Zogaib P, Franco E, Alves de Salles FC, Giorelli GV, Andreoli CV. Effects of Cordyceps Sinensis Supplementation during 12 weeks in amateur marathoners: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. J Herb Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2022.100570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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The Role of Autophagy in Anti-Cancer and Health Promoting Effects of Cordycepin. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26164954. [PMID: 34443541 PMCID: PMC8400201 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26164954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cordycepin is an adenosine derivative isolated from Cordyceps sinensis, which has been used as an herbal complementary and alternative medicine with various biological activities. The general anti-cancer mechanisms of cordycepin are regulated by the adenosine A3 receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β, leading to cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. Notably, cordycepin also induces autophagy to trigger cell death, inhibits tumor metastasis, and modulates the immune system. Since the dysregulation of autophagy is associated with cancers and neuron, immune, and kidney diseases, cordycepin is considered an alternative treatment because of the involvement of cordycepin in autophagic signaling. However, the profound mechanism of autophagy induction by cordycepin has never been reviewed in detail. Therefore, in this article, we reviewed the anti-cancer and health-promoting effects of cordycepin in the neurons, kidneys, and the immune system through diverse mechanisms, including autophagy induction. We also suggest that formulation changes for cordycepin could enhance its bioactivity and bioavailability and lower its toxicity for future applications. A comprehensive understanding of the autophagy mechanism would provide novel mechanistic insight into the anti-cancer and health-promoting effects of cordycepin.
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Das G, Shin HS, Leyva-Gómez G, Prado-Audelo MLD, Cortes H, Singh YD, Panda MK, Mishra AP, Nigam M, Saklani S, Chaturi PK, Martorell M, Cruz-Martins N, Sharma V, Garg N, Sharma R, Patra JK. Cordyceps spp.: A Review on Its Immune-Stimulatory and Other Biological Potentials. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:602364. [PMID: 33628175 PMCID: PMC7898063 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.602364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, interest in the Cordyceps genus has amplified due to its immunostimulatory potential. Cordyceps species, its extracts, and bioactive constituents have been related with cytokine production such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, phagocytosis stimulation of immune cells, nitric oxide production by increasing inducible nitric oxide synthase activity, and stimulation of inflammatory response via mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. Other pharmacological activities like antioxidant, anti-cancer, antihyperlipidemic, anti-diabetic, anti-fatigue, anti-aging, hypocholesterolemic, hypotensive, vasorelaxation, anti-depressant, aphrodisiac, and kidney protection, has been reported in pre-clinical studies. These biological activities are correlated with the bioactive compounds present in Cordyceps including nucleosides, sterols, flavonoids, cyclic peptides, phenolic, bioxanthracenes, polyketides, and alkaloids, being the cyclic peptides compounds the most studied. An organized review of the existing literature was executed by surveying several databanks like PubMed, Scopus, etc. using keywords like Cordyceps, cordycepin, immune system, immunostimulation, immunomodulatory, pharmacology, anti-cancer, anti-viral, clinical trials, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, phytochemical analysis, and different species names. This review collects and analyzes state-of-the-art about the properties of Cordyceps species along with ethnopharmacological properties, application in food, chemical compounds, extraction of bioactive compounds, and various pharmacological properties with a special focus on the stimulatory properties of immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitishree Das
- Research Institute of Biotechnology and Medical Converged Science, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyangsi, South Korea
| | - Han-Seung Shin
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyangsi, South Korea
| | - Gerardo Leyva-Gómez
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María L. Del Prado-Audelo
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Hernán Cortes
- Laboratorio de Medicina Genómica, Departamento de Genética, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Yengkhom Disco Singh
- Department of Post-Harvest Technology, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, India
| | - Manasa Kumar Panda
- Environment and Sustainability Department, CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Abhay Prakash Mishra
- Adarsh Vijendra Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shobhit University, Saharanpur, India
| | - Manisha Nigam
- Department of Biochemistry, H. N. B. Garhwal University, Srinagar Garhwal, India
| | - Sarla Saklani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, H. N. B. Garhwal University, Srinagar Garhwal, India
| | | | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Natália Cruz-Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, Alameda Prof. Hernani Monteiro, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vineet Sharma
- Department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Neha Garg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Jayanta Kumar Patra
- Research Institute of Biotechnology and Medical Converged Science, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyangsi, South Korea
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Singpoonga N, Rittiron R, Seang-on B, Chaiprasart P, Bantadjan Y. Determination of Adenosine and Cordycepin Concentrations in Cordyceps militaris Fruiting Bodies Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:27235-27244. [PMID: 33134685 PMCID: PMC7594118 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c03403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Near-infrared (NIRS) spectroscopy, coupled with partial least squares regression, was used to predict adenosine and cordycepin concentrations in fruiting bodies of Cordyceps militaris. The fruiting body samples were prepared in four different sample formats, which were intact fruiting bodies, chopped fruiting bodies, dried powder, and dried crude extract. The actual amount of the adenosine and cordycepin concentrations in fresh fruiting bodies was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results showed that the prediction models developed from the chopped samples provided excellent accuracy in both parameters with minimal sample preparation. These optimum models provided a coefficient of determination of prediction, standard error of prediction, bias, and residual predictive deviation, which were respectively 0.95, 16.60 mg kg-1, -8.57 mg kg-1, and 5.04 for adenosine prediction, and 0.98, 181.56 mg kg-1, -1.05 mg kg-1, and 8.9 for cordycepin prediction. The accuracy and performance of the model were determined by ISO12099:2017(E). It was found that these two equations can be considered to be acceptable at a probability level of 95% confidence. The NIRS technique, therefore, has the potential to be an objective method for determining the adenosine and cordycepin concentrations in C. militaris fruiting bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natthapong Singpoonga
- Department
of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Nakhon Sawan Rajabhat University, Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
| | - Ronnarit Rittiron
- Department
of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at Kamphaeng Saen, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Boonsong Seang-on
- Faculty
of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
- Center
of Excellence in Postharvest Technology, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Peerasak Chaiprasart
- Faculty
of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
- Center
of Excellence in Postharvest Technology, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
- Postharvest
Technology Innovation Center, Chiang Mai
University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Yuranan Bantadjan
- Department
of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at Kamphaeng Saen, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand
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Chen YC, Chen YH, Pan BS, Chang MM, Huang BM. Functional study of Cordyceps sinensis and cordycepin in male reproduction: A review. J Food Drug Anal 2016; 25:197-205. [PMID: 28911537 PMCID: PMC9333433 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfda.2016.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cordyceps sinensis has various biological and pharmacological functions, and it has been claimed as a tonic supplement for sexual and reproductive dysfunctions for a long time in oriental society. In this article, the in vitro and in vivo effects of C. sinensis and cordycepin on mouse Leydig cell steroidogenesis are briefly described, the stimulatory mechanisms are summarized, and the recent findings related to the alternative substances regulating male reproductive functions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Chia Chen
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hui Chen
- Department of Anesthesia, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Liouying, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Syong Pan
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - Ming-Min Chang
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Bu-Miin Huang
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Cordyceps with special reference to Cordycepin. 3 Biotech 2014; 4:1-12. [PMID: 28324458 PMCID: PMC3909570 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-013-0121-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An entomopathogenic fungus, Cordyceps sp. has been known to have numerous pharmacological and therapeutic implications, especially, in terms of human health making it a suitable candidate for ethno-pharmacological use. Main constituent of the extract derived from this fungus comprises a novel bio-metabolite called as Cordycepin (3′deoxyadenosine) which has a very potent anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The current review discusses about the broad spectrum potential of Cordycepin including biological and pharmacological actions in immunological, hepatic, renal, cardiovascular systems as well as an anti-cancer agent. The article also reviews the current efforts to delineate the mechanism of action of Cordycepin in various bio-molecular processes. The study will certainly draw the attention of scientific community to improve the bioactivity and production of Cordycepin for its commercial use in pharmacological and medical fields.
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Brigham A, Bryan JK, Ceurvels J, Conquer J, Costa D, Culwell S, Giese N, Hashmi S, Hawkins EB, Isaac R, Le TD, LeBlanc Y, Liu A, Rusie-Seamon E, Grimes Serrano JM, Tanguay-Colucci S, Weissner W, Zhou S. Cordyceps (Cordyceps spp.): An Evidence-Based Systematic Review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1089/act.2013.19606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Brigham
- Former pharmacy students at Northeastern University, in Boston, Massachusetts
| | - J. Kathryn Bryan
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - James Ceurvels
- Former pharmacy students at Northeastern University, in Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Julie Conquer
- President of RGB Consulting, in London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dawn Costa
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Samantha Culwell
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Nicole Giese
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Sadaf Hashmi
- A clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the Brown University Alpert School of Medicine, in Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Richard Isaac
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Thuy-Duong Le
- A former pharmacy student at Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
| | - Yvonne LeBlanc
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Angela Liu
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Erica Rusie-Seamon
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Wendy Weissner
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
| | - Sara Zhou
- The Natural Standard Research Collaboration, in Somerville, Massachusetts
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Shashidhar M, Giridhar P, Udaya Sankar K, Manohar B. Bioactive principles from Cordyceps sinensis: A potent food supplement - A review. J Funct Foods 2013; 5:1013-1030. [PMID: 32288795 PMCID: PMC7104994 DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2013.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introducing the importance of Cordyceps sinensis (CS) and its economics. Alternative artificial cultivation methods for large scale production to meet the world demand for CS. Chemical characterization of compounds in different extracts of CS. Potential health benefits and mechanism of action of compounds in CS. Possible application of whole fungus or its extracts in food and pharmaceutical industries.
Cordyceps sinensis (CS) is a well-known entamophagus fungus, naturally distributed in the Tibetan Plateau of Asia and Himalayas. Recently this synonym is transferred to Ophiocordyceps by both scientific and non-scientific communities. It is widely used as a tonic and medicinal food in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as it possess wonderful health benefits. To support its functional attributes, various investigations have been carried out to find out its adaptogenic, aphrodisiac, anti-oxidant, anti-aging, neuroprotective, nootropic, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer and hepatoprotective role. Its fruiting portion as well as the larvae possesses potent bio-active fractions and their composition almost found to be similar in both. The bioactive principles are nucleosides, exo-polysaccharides, sterols and, proteins, among others. Among nucleosides, adenosine and cordycepin are the major biochemical markers. Further, different types of solvent extracts and their mixtures exhibit wide range of pharmacological activities, while the water and methanol extracts with the richest sources of nucleosides and polysaccharides also show wide range of pharmacological activities. This review gives a panoramic view of potential health benefits of various classes of bio-active fractions along with the need for sustainable management of CS for human wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.G. Shashidhar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Council of Scientific and Industrial research, New Delhi, India
- Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
| | - P. Giridhar
- Department of Plant Cell Biotechnology, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
| | - K. Udaya Sankar
- Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
| | - B. Manohar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Council of Scientific and Industrial research, New Delhi, India
- Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India
- Corresponding author at: Department of Food Engineering, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570020, India. Fax: +91 821 2517233.
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Chen S, Li Z, Krochmal R, Abrazado M, Kim W, Cooper CB. Effect of Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy older subjects: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med 2011; 16:585-90. [PMID: 20804368 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2009.0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to examine the effect of Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) on exercise performance in healthy elderly subjects. DESIGN Twenty (20) healthy elderly (age 50-75 years) subjects were enrolled in this double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospective trial. The subjects were taking either Cs-4 333 mg or placebo capsules 3 times a day for 12 weeks. MEASUREMENT Subjects received baseline screening including physical examination and laboratory tests. Maximal incremental exercise testing was performed on a stationary cycle ergometer using breath-by-breath analysis at baseline and at the completion of the study. RESULTS After receiving Cs-4 for 12 weeks, the metabolic threshold (above which lactate accumulates) increased by 10.5% from 0.83 +/- 0.06 to 0.93 +/- 0.08 L/min (p < 0.02) and the ventilatory threshold (above which unbuffered H(+) stimulates ventilation) increased by 8.5% from 1.25 +/- 0.11 to 1.36 +/- 0.15 L/min. Significant changes in metabolic or ventilatory threshold were not seen for the subjects in the placebo group after 12 weeks, and there were no changes in Vo(2) max in either group. CONCLUSION This pilot study suggests that supplementation with Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) improves exercise performance and might contribute to wellness in healthy older subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Chen
- Center for Human Nutrition, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Dong CH, Yao YJ. On the reliability of fungal materials used in studies on Ophiocordyceps sinensis. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2010; 38:1027-35. [PMID: 20922458 DOI: 10.1007/s10295-010-0877-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Accepted: 09/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ophiocordyceps sinensis (≡Cordyceps sinensis) is one of the best known traditional Chinese medicines, with great benefits to human health and huge economic value. The reliability of fungal materials used in studies of the species is particularly important because contradictory results have been found in various studies in the past decades. Examination of fungal materials specified in reports on O. sinensis showed great variation in both sources and culture conditions of living strains. To test the reliability of the materials used, experiments were carried out to study the effect of culture conditions on the growth of living strains of O. sinensis by using six reliable strains representing the major production regions of the fungus on the Tibetan Plateau. The results showed that O. sinensis is a slow-growing fungus at comparatively low temperature, and that temperature and growth period are crucial factors which can be verified by experiment. Analyses of fungal materials used in 152 papers on O. sinensis from PubMed since 1998 showed that 41 papers lacked detailed information on the fungal materials; 26 used natural products, 11 used artificially cultivated fruit bodies, and 80 used fermentation products from living strains. Of the latter category (using fermentation products), 64 of the papers were found to use unreliable (45) or uncertain (19) strains for fermentation products based on the temperature and growth period for O. sinensis strains verified in this study. Apart from the natural products of O. sinensis, which require scientific identification, a total of at least 116 papers (over three-quarters) used unreliable, uncertain or unspecified materials, including so-called cultivated fruit bodies which were apparently from other species. The reliability of materials or living strains used in studies on O. sinensis is discussed in this paper, and suggestions are made for use of reliable fungal materials in further studies of this fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-H Dong
- Key Laboratory of Systematic Mycology and Lichenology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2714, Beijing, 100101, China
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Abstract
Abstract
Cordyceps species, including C. sinensis, C. militaris, C. pruinosa and C. ophioglossoides, are prized traditional medicinal materials. The aim of this article is to review the chemical constituents and pharmacological actions of Cordyceps species. The chemical constituents include cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine) and its derivatives, ergosterol, polysaccharides, a glycoprotein and peptides containing α-aminoisobutyric acid. They include anti-tumour, anti-metastatic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, antimicrobial, hypolipidaemic, hypoglycaemic, anti-ageing, neuroprotective and renoprotective effects. Polysaccharide accounts for the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, anti-metastatic, immunomodulatory, hypoglycaemic, steroidogenic and hypolipidaemic effects. Cordycepin contributes to the anti-tumour, insecticidal and antibacterial activity. Ergosterol exhibits anti-tumour and immunomodulatory activity. A DNase has been characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- T B Ng
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
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13
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Paterson RRM. Cordyceps: a traditional Chinese medicine and another fungal therapeutic biofactory? PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2008; 69:1469-95. [PMID: 18343466 PMCID: PMC7111646 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2008.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 278] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2007] [Revised: 01/17/2008] [Accepted: 01/18/2008] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) are growing in popularity. However, are they effective? Cordyceps is not studied as systematically for bioactivity as another TCM, Ganoderma. Cordyceps is fascinating per se, especially because of the pathogenic lifestyle on Lepidopteron insects. The combination of the fungus and dead insect has been used as a TCM for centuries. However, the natural fungus has been harvested to the extent that it is an endangered species. The effectiveness has been attributed to the Chinese philosophical concept of Yin and Yang and can this be compatible with scientific philosophy? A vast literature exists, some of which is scientific, although others are popular myth, and even hype. Cordyceps sinensis is the most explored species followed by Cordyceps militaris. However, taxonomic concepts were confused until a recent revision, with undefined material being used that cannot be verified. Holomorphism is relevant and contamination might account for some of the activity. The role of the insect has been ignored. Some of the analytical methodologies are poor. Data on the "old" compound cordycepin are still being published: ergosterol and related compounds are reported despite being universal to fungi. There is too much work on crude extracts rather than pure compounds with water and methanol solvents being over-represented in this respect (although methanol is an effective solvent). Excessive speculation exists as to the curative properties. However, there are some excellent pharmacological data and relating to apoptosis. For example, some preparations are active against cancers or diabetes which should be fully investigated. Polysaccharides and secondary metabolites are of particular interest. The use of genuine anamorphic forms in bioreactors is encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Russell M Paterson
- Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Centre of Biological Engineering, Campus de Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
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Dong CH, Yao YJ. Nutritional requirements of mycelial growth of Cordyceps sinensis in submerged culture. J Appl Microbiol 2006; 99:483-92. [PMID: 16108789 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2005.02640.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The nutritional requirements for mycelial growth of Cordyceps sinensis in semi-synthetic liquid media were investigated. The results provide a basis for further physiological study and industrial fermentation of the fungus. METHODS AND RESULTS Nutritional requirements, including 17 carbohydrates, 16 nitrogen compounds, nine vitamins, four macro-elements, four trace-elements and eight ratios of carbon to nitrogen, were studied for their effects on the mycelial growth in submerged cultures of C. sinensis by using one-factor-at-a-time and orthogonal matrix methods. Among these variables, sucrose, peptone, folic acid, calcium, zinc and a carbon to nitrogen ratio 12 : 1 were identified as the requirements for the optimum mycelial growth. The concentrations of sucrose, peptone and yeast extract were optimized and the effects of medium composition on mycelial growth were found to be in the order sucrose > yeast extract > peptone. The optimal concentration for mycelial growth was determined as 50 g l(-1) sucrose, 10 g l(-1) peptone and 3 g l(-1) yeast extract. CONCLUSIONS Under optimal culture conditions, over 22 g l(-1) of mycelial biomass could be obtained after 40 days in submerged cultures. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Cordyceps sinensis, one of the most valued medicinal fungi, is shown to grow in axenic culture. This is the first report on nutritional requirements and design of a simplified semi-synthetic medium for mycelial growth of this psychrophilic species, which grows slowly below 20 degrees C. The results of this study will facilitate research on mass production of the fungus under defined culture conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-H Dong
- Systematic Mycology and Lichenology Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080, China
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Siu KM, Mak DHF, Chiu PY, Poon MKT, Du Y, Ko KM. Pharmacological basis of 'Yin-nourishing' and 'Yang-invigorating' actions of Cordyceps, a Chinese tonifying herb. Life Sci 2004; 76:385-95. [PMID: 15530501 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2004.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2004] [Accepted: 07/02/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. (Cordyceps), a popular Chinese tonifying herb, was revered for being both 'Yin-nourishing' and 'Yang-invigorating' in Chinese medicine. In order to establish the pharmacological basis for the 'Yin-nourishing' and 'Yang-invigorating' action of Cordyceps, the effects of wild and cultured Cordyceps on concanavalin A (Con A)-stimulated splenocytes, an in vitro bioassay for 'Yin-nourishment', and myocardial ATP generation capacity, an ex vivo bioassay for 'Yang-invigoration', were investigated in mice. The results indicated that methanolic extracts of wild and cultured Cordyceps enhanced both the Con A-stimulated splenocyte proliferation in vitro and myocardial mitochondrial ATP generation ex vivo in mice, with no significant difference in potency of action between the two types of Cordyceps. While the immuno-potentiating effect was associated with the increase in interleukin II production, the stimulation of myocardial ATP generation was paralleled by an enhancement in mitochondrial electron transport. When compared with typical 'Yin' and 'Yang' tonifying Chinese herbs, Cordyceps was found to possess both 'Yin-nourishing' and 'Yang-invigorating' activities, with a lower potency in both modes of action. The pharmacological characterization of Cordyceps by means of contemporary bioassays is consistent with the time-honored clinical observation from Chinese herbalists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Ming Siu
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Earnest CP, Morss GM, Wyatt F, Jordan AN, Colson S, Church TS, Fitzgerald Y, Autrey L, Jurca R, Lucia A. Effects of a Commercial Herbal-Based Formula on Exercise Performance in Cyclists. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2004; 36:504-9. [PMID: 15076794 DOI: 10.1249/01.mss.0000125157.49280.af] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE We examined the effects of a commercially marketed herbal-based formula purported to increase endurance on oxygen consumption (VO2) in 17 competitive category III/IV amateur cyclists [mean (SEM) age: 31.1 (1.8) yr; height: 178.5 (1.8) cm; weight: 77.1 (1.6) kg]. METHODS Each cyclist participated in two (pre/post) cycling tests progressing 25 W.4 min(-1) starting at 100 W administered in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind fashion. The second trial was performed 14 d after the ingestion of a manufacturer recommended loading phase (4 d x 6 caps.d(-1)) and a maintenance phase (11 d x 3 caps.d(-1)). Three treatment capsules contained 1000 mg of Cordyceps sinensis (CS-4) and 300 mg Rhodiola rosea root extract as the primary ingredients; 800 mg of other ingredients included calcium pyruvate, sodium phosphate, potassium phosphate, ribose, and adenosine and 200 mcg of chromium. RESULTS Using a 2 x 2 ANOVA, we observed no significant treatment effect for any between or within group variables including peak VO2 [treatment 4.14 (0.2) L.min(-1); placebo 4.10 (0.2) L.min(-1)], time to exhaustion [treatment 38.47 (1.7) min; placebo 36.95 (1.8) min], peak power output (PO) [treatment 300.00 (12.1) W; placebo 290.63 (12.9) W], or peak heart rate. We also observed no differences for any subpeak exercise variable including the PO eliciting 2 mmol.L(-1) blood lactate (BLa) [treatment 201.00 (18.1) W; placebo 167.50 (19.2) W] and 4 mmol.L(-1) BLa [treatment 235.88 (15.8) W; placebo 244.78 (14.9) W], ventilatory threshold, respiratory compensation point, or Vo2 L.min(-1) gross efficiency at each stage. CONCLUSION A 2-wk ingestion schema of a commercial herbal-based formula is insufficient to elicit positive changes in cycling performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conrad P Earnest
- Center for Human Performance and Nutrition Research, The Cooper Institute Center for Human Performance and Nutrition Research, Dallas, TX 75230, USA.
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Hsu CC, Tsai SJ, Huang YL, Huang BM. Regulatory mechanism of Cordyceps sinensis mycelium on mouse Leydig cell steroidogenesis. FEBS Lett 2003; 543:140-3. [PMID: 12753921 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(03)00427-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We demonstrate the mechanism by which Cordyceps sinensis (CS) mycelium regulates Leydig cell steroidogenesis. Mouse Leydig cells were treated with forskolin, H89, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, staurosporine, or steroidogenic enzyme precursors with or without 3 mg/ml CS; then testosterone production was determined. H89, but not phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate or staurosporine, decreased CS-treated Leydig cell steroidogenesis. CS inhibited Leydig cell steroidogenesis by suppressing the activity of P450scc enzyme, but not 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17alpha-hydroxylase, 20alpha-hydroxylase, or 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes. Thus, CS activated the cAMP-protein kinase A signal pathway, but not protein kinase C, and attenuated P45scc enzyme activity to reduce human chorionic gonadotropin-stimulated steroidogenesis in purified mouse Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Chao Hsu
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, #1 Ta-Hsueh Road, 701, Tainan, Taiwan
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Liu YK, Shen W. Inhibitive effect of cordyceps sinensis on experimental hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanism. World J Gastroenterol 2003; 9:529-33. [PMID: 12632512 PMCID: PMC4621576 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v9.i3.529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the inhibitive effect and its possible mechanism of Cordyceps Sinensis (CS) on CCl4-plus ethanol-induced hepatic fibrogenesis in experimental rats.
METHODS: Rats were randomly allocated into a normal control group, a model control group and a CS group. The latter two groups were administered with CCl4 and ethanol solution at the beginning of the experiment to induce hepatic fibrosis. The CS group was also treated with CS 10 days after the beginning of CCl4 and ethanol administration. All control groups were given corresponding placebo at the same time. At the end of the 9th week, rats in each group were humanely sacrificed. Blood and tissue specimens were taken. Biochemical, radioimmunological, immunohistochemical and molecular biological examinations were used to determine the level change of ALT, AST, HA, LN content in serum and TGFβ1, PDGF, collagen I and III expression in tissue at either protein or mRNA level or both of them.
RESULTS: As compared with the model control group, serum ALT, AST, HA, and LN content levels were markedly dropped in CS group (86.0 ± 34.4 vs 224.3 ± 178.9, 146.7 ± 60.2 vs 272.6 ± 130.1, 202.0 ± 79.3 vs 316.5 ± 94.1 and 50.4 ± 3.0 vs 59.7 ± 9.8, respectively, P < 0.05). Tissue expression of TGFβ1 and its mRNA, collagen I mRNA were also markedly decreased (0.2 ± 0.14 vs 1.73 ± 1.40, 1.68 ± 0.47 vs 3.17 ± 1.17, 1.10 ± 0.84 vs 2.64 ± 1.40, respectively, P < 0.05). More dramatical drop could be seen in PDGF expression (0.87 ± 0.43 vs 1.91 ± 0.74, P < 0.01). Although there was no statistical significance, it was still strongly suggested that collagen III mRNA expression was also decreased in CS group as compared with model control group (0.36 ± 0.27 vs 0.95 ± 0.65, P = 0.0615). In this experiment, no significant change could be found in PDGF mRNA expression between two groups (0.35 ± 0.34 vs 0.70 ± 0.46, P > 0.05).
CONCLUSION: Cordyceps sinensis could inhibit hepatic fibrogenesis derived from chronic liver injury, retard the development of cirrhosis, and notably ameliorate the liver function. Its possible mechanism involves inhibiting TGFβ1 expression, and thereby, down regulating PDGF expression, preventing HSC activation and deposition of procollagen I and III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Kan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second affiliated hospital, Chongqing University of Medical Sciences, Chongqing 400010, China
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Zhao CS, Yin WT, Wang JY, Zhang Y, Yu H, Cooper R, Smidt C, Zhu JS. CordyMax Cs-4 improves glucose metabolism and increases insulin sensitivity in normal rats. J Altern Complement Med 2002; 8:309-14. [PMID: 12165188 DOI: 10.1089/10755530260127998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate effects of CordyMax trade mark Cs-4, a mycelial fermentation product of Cordyceps sinensis, on improving glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. DESIGN An in vivo pharmacology study. Subjects and Study Interventions: Adult Wistar rats, male and female, were given CordyMax 250 or 500 mg/kg per day or placebo for 17 days by gavage. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Fasting blood glucose, fasting plasma insulin, glucose-insulin index, and oral glucose tolerance. RESULTS Rats fed Cs-4 at either 250 or 500 mg/kg showed significantly reduced fasting blood glucose after the 17-day treatment, by 27% and 24% from baselines respectively (both p < 0.001). Examination of fasting plasma insulin demonstrated a 37% decrease in the high dose treatment groups (p = 0.012). Glucose-insulin index, an index of insulin sensitivity, increased by 10% and 17% in both 250 and 500 mg/kg groups (p = 0.008 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Oral glucose tolerance tests showed significantly improved glucose tolerance at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 hours after oral administration of a bolus of glucose (the area under the glucose curve: p = 0.05-0.006), but no change at 5 hours. CONCLUSION CordyMax Cs-4 is effective in lowering basal blood glucose and plasma insulin, improving glucose metabolism by enhancing insulin sensitivity, and improving oral glucose tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Sheng Zhao
- Pharmanex Beijing Clinical-Pharmacology Research Center, China
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