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Ganoderma lucidum
Ganoderma lucidum (reishi mushroom) modulates immune function and promotes apoptosis through polysaccharide and triterpene constituents that enhance natural killer cell activity and reduce inflammatory cytokines.
Ganoderma lucidum (reishi mushroom) modulates immune function and promotes apoptosis through polysaccharide and triterpene constituents that enhance natural killer cell activity and reduce inflammatory cytokines. Used for Cancer adjuvant therapy and immune support, Fatigue and quality of life in cancer patients.
At a glance
| Generic name | Ganoderma lucidum |
|---|---|
| Also known as | lingzhi trearment |
| Sponsor | Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University |
| Drug class | Herbal/botanical immunomodulator |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Oncology, Immunology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
The fruiting body and spores of Ganoderma lucidum contain bioactive compounds including beta-glucans and ganoderic acids that act as biological response modifiers. These constituents enhance immune surveillance, promote tumor cell death through multiple pathways, and reduce systemic inflammation. The mechanism is multifactorial rather than targeting a single molecular receptor.
Approved indications
- Cancer adjuvant therapy and immune support
- Fatigue and quality of life in cancer patients
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Key clinical trials
- A Clinical Trial to Investigate the Safety and Efficacy of Papillex® on Abnormal Cervical Cells Caused by HPV. (NA)
- Assessing the Impact of Herbal Supplement on Fatigue and Disease Activity in SLE: Results From an 8-Week Randomized Trial (NA)
- PsP Ganoderma Lucidum Supplementation and Biomarker Changes in Smokers (NA)
- Reishi Mushroom Extract for Fatigue and/or Arthralgias/Myalgias in Patients With Breast Cancer on Aromatase Inhibitors (PHASE2)
- The Effects on Sleep Quality of 1:4 Reishi Liquid Extract (NA)
- Physiological Effects of Nutritional Support in Patients With Parkinson's Disease (NA)
- Clinical Trial: Rapid Immune Modulating Effects (NA)
- Effects of Botanical Microglia Modulators in Gulf War Illness (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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