Therapeutics of Alzheimer's Disease with Fungi of the Genus Cordyceps
Current Indications and Future Perspectives of Its Use
Keywords:
Alzheimer’s Disease, Cordyceps sp., Cordycepin, Neuroprotection, Medicinal fungiAbstract
Objective: Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most prevalent dementia, marked by progressive cognitive and functional decline. Current treatments show limited efficacy, leading to interest in natural compounds. Fungi of the genus Cordyceps, mainly C. sinensis and C. militaris, contain bioactives such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, and selenium-enriched peptides with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective actions. This narrative review, based on PRISMA®, analyzed 9 articles (2015–2025). Findings suggest modulation of pathways such as CREB/NGF and AMPK/mTOR, improving synaptic plasticity and reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Despite these promising effects, the lack of clinical trials in humans restricts therapeutic use. Cordyceps sp. emerges as a potential adjuvant in AD treatment, but further clinical validation is needed.
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