Effects of Cordycepin in Cordyceps militaris during Its Infection to Silkworm Larvae

Energy Boost and Increased Endurance
Health Benefits of Cordyceps, found in C. militaris and similar to creatine, has the ability to provide energy and increase endurance in the body. It helps reduce fatigue while enhancing strength and physical performance.

In one study involving 11 male participants, the use of cordycepin at a day led to improved physical fitness. This resulted in increased oxygen consumption and energy expenditure during high intensity.

Additionally, extracts from C. militaris also enhance exercise capabilities. This is reflected in improvements in maximal oxygen uptake, extended activity before exhaustion, and reduced lactic acid levels.

Enhancing the Immune System

The immune-boosting mechanism is due to the action of polysaccharides activating macrophages cells in the immune system. Additionally, research by Jeong and colleagues has highlighted the immune-modulating effects of both cordycepin and C. militaris. This has been demonstrated by inhibiting tumor growth in experimental mice.

 Cancer Prevention

The water extract of Cordyceps militaris has been verified in its ability to prevent breast cancer through its role in promoting apoptosis in tumor cells, indicated by the activation of caspase-3.Cordyceps on cancer prevention

Two components of C. militaris, cordycepin and ergosterol, have been proven to inhibit the proliferation of human colon and liver cancer cells. Notably, cordycepin also has the ability to prevent the growth and migration of bladder cancer cells.

 Antioxidant Activity

Studies have confirmed that Cordyceps militaris contains components with strong antioxidant properties, particularly polysaccharides and cordycepin. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of C. militaris also depends on other components such as ergothioneine, phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and selenium.

Anti-inflammatory Activity

The anti-inflammatory properties of C. militaris have been validated through its inhibition of the production of inflammatory mediators such as NO, two compounds found in C. militaris, can prevent the release of inflammatory mediator.

Cordyceps offers health benefits by inhibiting NF-κB activity, blocking protein kinase phosphorylation, suppressing iNOS activity, and reducing NO levels in inflammation. Studies also highlight cordycepin’s analgesic properties.

Furthermore, polysaccharides from C. militaris exhibit anti-inflammatory properties similar to those of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as acetylsalicylic acid, indomethacin, and diclofenac. This further substantiates the effectiveness of C. militaris in managing inflammation. 

Blood Sugar Regulation

Studies on mice show Cordyceps militaris extracts improve glucose utilization, reduce insulin resistance, and regulate blood sugar. They inhibit α-glucosidase activity, limiting carbohydrate breakdown and glucose absorption in the intestine.

Additionally, cerebrosides in the extract have been found to inhibit the activity of the enzyme PTP1B. In a mouse model over 21 days improved glucose tolerance and absorption. This suggests that Health Benefits of Cordyceps militaris may offer potential therapeutic benefits for managing blood sugar levels.

Diabetes Treatment Potential of Cordycepin

Recent scientific studies have highlighted the potential of cordycepin in the treatment of diabetes through its impact on the expression of crucial proteins in the liver.

Antibacterial and Antiviral Activities

Cordyline, a peptide extracted from Cordyceps militaris, has been proven to possess antifungal and antiviral capabilities in in vitro experiments. Cordyline can inhibit the growth of various fungi, including Bioplays maydis and Candida albicans.

In vitro studies have also clarified the antiviral activity of cordycepin and its derivatives. Cordycepin has demonstrated antiviral properties against. The antiviral mechanism of cordycepin involves inhibiting the reverse transcription and RNA polymerase enzyme of viruses.

In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed potential medications, and cordycepin was considered and researched as a chemical compound with antiviral potential.

Effects of C. militaris on the Endocrine System

Health Benefit Studies have shown that Cordyceps militaris can stimulate endocrine activity. Research in mice indicates that cordycepin in C. militaris increases testosterone levels, enhances steroid production, and raises the levels of testosterone and progesterone.

Cordycepin from C. militaris also shows potential in improving testicular function, stimulating sperm formation, and enhancing sperm activity. Additionally, levels in the plasma of mice. These findings suggest that Cordyceps militaris could have significant applications in both endocrine and reproductive health management

In Vitro and In Vivo Studies on Prostate Health

Experiments conducted in vitro and in vivo have demonstrated that extracts from Cordyceps militaris can reduce the proliferation of prostate cells and regulate hormones. This suggests a potential role for C. militaris in managing conditions related to prostate health and hormonal balance.

Effects of C. militaris on the Respiratory System

In vitro studies reveal cordycepin’s role in regulating sodium, potassium, and chloride ion transport in respiratory epithelial cells.

Polysaccharides from C. militaris reduce IgE levels in asthma mouse models, inhibiting cell proliferation and invasion linked to respiratory distress.

These studies underscore Cordyceps militaris’ therapeutic potential in promoting respiratory health and managing autoimmune and inflammatory responses in the respiratory system.

Effects of C. militaris on Bone and Joint Health

Scientific studies suggest that Cordyceps militaris has potential benefits in treating osteoporosis. In vitro experiments have shown that C. militaris can inhibit the differentiation of bone cells.

Researchers have demonstrated that cordycepin exhibits anti-inflammatory activity in human osteoarthritic cartilage cells. It inhibits the production of PGE2.

In mouse models, cordycepin and C. militaris helped reduce bone loss in osteoporosis and alleviated osteoarthritis pain by inhibiting polyadenylation.

Effects of C. militaris on the Nervous System

Cordycepin can protect neural cells through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. Furthermore, a polypeptide from C. militaris has been shown to improve memory in mice. This polypeptide also reduces the activity of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE).

A study was conducted to test the effects of consuming Cordyceps militaris water extract containing cordycepin, polysaccharides, and mannitol on human emotional states. Although this study has been conducted, no official results have yet been published regarding its potential effects on reducing symptoms of depression.