Potential of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Fungi for Central Nervous System Diseases

Recent research from Shandong highlights the promising therapeutic potential of edible and medicinal fungi traditionally used in Chinese medicine for central nervous system (CNS) disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, epilepsy, and depression. These fungi contain bioactive compounds—including polysaccharides, steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids—that exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects.

As CNS diseases often involve complex pathology, slow progression, and limited treatment options, the exploration of natural bioactive compounds offers new avenues for development. Current treatments primarily focus on symptom relief rather than halting disease progression, with significant challenges due to adverse effects and incomplete understanding of disease mechanisms.

The referenced study, "New Dawn of Edible and Medicinal Fungi: Unlocking Central Nervous System Diseases," published in the Journal of Food Science, reviews existing literature on fungi such as Ganoderma lucidum, Cordyceps militaris, and Hericium erinaceus. It reports that specific bioactive components in these fungi can modulate neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal survival.

For instance, deacetyl ganoderic acid F in Ganoderma lucidum can influence microglial and astrocytic activity; selenium peptides from Cordyceps militaris help regulate inflammation and oxidative damage; and Antrodia camphorata extracts show benefits in stroke models by reducing infarct size and boosting antioxidants. Hericium erinaceus has been associated with neurotransmitter regulation and anti-inflammatory pathways relevant to depression.

While these findings are encouraging, experts emphasize the need for further rigorous research, including clinical trials, to determine optimal dosages, safety, and efficacy. Standardization of extraction methods and comprehensive safety assessments are critical steps toward integrating these fungi-derived compounds into mainstream medical use.

As global interest in natural and traditional medicines grows, China’s government promotes the integration of traditional Chinese medicine with Western pharmaceuticals through initiatives like "Healthy China 2030." This strategy includes establishing traceability systems for raw materials, promoting research, and bridging traditional practices with modern scientific validation, aiming to develop new therapies rooted in nature.

Ultimately, although the potential of medicinal fungi in CNS treatment is promising, ongoing scientific validation remains essential to move from traditional use to scientifically supported therapies.