Significant role of Bioactive compounds of Ganoderma lucidum in the aging process
Department of Zoology, Isabella Thoburn College, Lucknow-226007 Uttar Pradesh, India.
Review
Open Access Research Journal of Biology and Pharmacy, 2025, 14(02), 035-044.
Article DOI: 10.53022/oarjbp.2025.14.2.0033
Publication history:
Received on 11 July 2025; revised on 20 August 2025; accepted on 22 August 2025
Abstract:
Ganoderma lucidum, commonly known as Reishi or Lingzhi, is a medicinal mushroom widely recognized for its therapeutic potential in promoting health and longevity. Aging is a multifactorial process driven by oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and immune decline. Bioactive compounds present in G. lucidum, such as polysaccharides (particularly β-D-glucans), triterpenoids (ganoderic acids), peptides, sterols, and phenolic compounds, exhibit potent anti-aging properties through diverse mechanisms. Polysaccharides enhance antioxidant defences, reduce free radical accumulation, and modulate immune responses, thereby delaying immunosenescence. Triterpenoids protect mitochondria, suppress pro-inflammatory signaling, and prevent apoptosis, contributing to neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects. Peptides and sterols further alleviate oxidative DNA damage, promote tissue repair, and maintain membrane stability, while phenolic compounds regulate cellular redox pathways and delay senescence. Experimental studies in animal and cell models have demonstrated that Ganoderma lucidum extracts improve lifespan, cognitive function, and stress resistance, supporting its role as a natural geroprotective agent. Moreover, its multi-targeted activity makes it a promising candidate in preventing age-related diseases, including neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disorders, and chronic kidney disease.
Keywords:
Ganoderma lucidum; Aging; DNA Damage; Bioactive Compounds
Full text article in PDF:
Copyright information:
Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0