Skip to main content

Paper card · curated

Cordycepin: a bioactive metabolite with therapeutic potential

Tuli HS, Sandhu SS, Sharma AK

Life Sciences · 2014

cordycepscordycepinreviewcompound-pharmacology

Abstract excerpt

Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine), produced by Cordyceps militaris and several other entomopathogenic fungi, is structurally similar to adenosine and acts on multiple targets including mTOR signaling, polyadenylation of mRNA, and adenosine receptors. The compound is unstable in plasma due to rapid deamination by adenosine deaminase, which limits oral bioavailability. Co-administration with deaminase inhibitors substantially extends plasma half-life. Therapeutic potential has been investigated in cancer-adjuvant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic contexts.

Excerpt from the published abstract. Full paper at the journal link below.

Joe's notes

How to read this paper

Cordycepin pharmacology overview. Note the bioavailability problem — it's why most cordyceps supplements provide modest plasma exposure and why dose ranges are large in published trials.

Read the paper

FDA disclaimer

Research papers in this library describe published scientific findings. They are not therapeutic claims. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Compounds discussed in any paper are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to a healthcare provider before making decisions about supplements.