Anti-Cancer Effect of Cordyceps Militaris

Monika Devi

Abstract

Cordyceps militaris is a therapeutic fungus that has been used for traditional herbal remedies. It contains variety of bioactive elements, including cordycepin. Cordycepin (3’-deoxyadenosine), is the main compound and is believed to have anti-cancer potential. Treatment of various cancer cells with cordycepin effectively causes cell death and slows down the nature of the cancer. But yet, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. Recent findings provide information about molecular signalling pathways such as cysteine-aspartic proteases (caspases), mitogen-stimulated protein kinases (MAPKs), and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β). It also changes the reputation of receptors, such as adenosine receptors (ADORAs), death receptors (DRs), and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). This review gives an idea about the molecular mechanisms by which cordycepin acts as a singular or combinational anticancer therapeutic agent.

Abstract

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