The Phytochemistry of Ganoderma Species and their Medicinal Potentials

Abstract

The Ganoderma genus is known for its diverse use as a functional food and therapeutic agent. This fungus has over 428 species, with Ganoderma lucidum being the most studied. The Ganoderma species produce several secondary metabolites and bioactive compounds like polysaccharides, phenols, and triterpenes, which are largely responsible for their therapeutic properties. Throughout this review, several extracts obtained from Ganoderma species have been studied to delve into their therapeutic characteristics and mechanisms. Such properties like immunomodulation, antiaging, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities have been demonstrated by several Ganoderma species and are supported by a large body of evidence. Although its phytochemicals play a vital role in its therapeutic properties, identifying the therapeutic potentials of fungal-secreted metabolites for human health-promoting benefits is a challenging task. Identification of novel compounds with distinct chemical scaffolds and their mechanism of action could help suppress the spread of rising pathogens. Thus, this review provides an updated and comprehensive overview of the bioactive components in different Ganoderma species and the underlying physiological mechanisms.

Regulatory effect of Ganoderma lucidum and its active components on gut flora in diseases

“…Ganoderma lucidum is a kind of dicotyledonous fungus belonging to the Ganoderma genus of the Ganodermataceae family Polyporales order, and Basidiomycota division, which is widely cultivated in China ( Blundell et al, 2023 ). The beneficial characteristics of G. lucidum are attributed to bioactive compounds found at two stages of its life cycle: the fruiting body and mycelium.…”

Exploring Nutrient Profiles, Phytochemical Composition, and the Antiproliferative Activity of Ganoderma lucidum and Ganoderma leucocontextum: A Comprehensive Comparative Study

“…Ganoderma spp., commonly known as "Reishi" in Japan or "Lingzhi" in China, is a remarkable genus of macrofungi with an extensive history of traditional usage both as functional sustenance and as a therapeutic agent. To date, in excess of 428 distinct species of Ganoderma have been identified [1]. A burgeoning focus in the scientific research has accentuated its medicinal attributes.…”

The Efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum Extracts on Treating Endometrial Cancer: A Network Pharmacology Approach

“…Ganoderma , also known as Lingzhi, is a highly esteemed herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has been widely employed as a functional food and therapeutic agent [ 4 ]. Ganoderma lucidum (GL), a prominent species within the Ganoderma genus, exhibits a diverse array of pharmacological properties, including antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative activities [ 5 , 6 ].…”