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Cordyceps sinensis relieves non-small cell lung cancer by inhibiting the MAPK pathway

Tianming Lu1,2, Lirun Zhou1, Zheng Chu1

  • 1State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.

Chinese Medicine
|March 26, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cordyceps sinensis demonstrates therapeutic potential for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by modulating immune responses and inhibiting the MAPK pathway. This study reveals its mechanism in a preclinical NSCLC model.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a significant global health challenge.
  • Understanding the pharmacodynamic mechanisms of natural compounds like Cordyceps sinensis is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Preclinical models are essential for elucidating the biological effects of potential anti-cancer agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the pharmacodynamic mechanism of Cordyceps sinensis in alleviating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) within a murine model.
  • To explore the molecular pathways targeted by C. sinensis in the context of NSCLC progression.

Main Methods:

  • A murine model of NSCLC was established for experimental investigation.
  • Transcriptomics and proteomics analyses were employed to identify molecular targets.
  • Experimental validation was conducted to confirm findings from omics data.

Main Results:

  • Cordyceps sinensis treatment improved lung tissue pathology and reduced inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers.
  • Transcriptomic analysis indicated that C. sinensis influences T-cell differentiation and activation.
  • Proteomic data suggested that C. sinensis inhibits tumor cell proliferation via the MAPK pathway and recruits immune cells.
  • Experimental validation confirmed decreased expression of proliferation markers (Ki67, VEGF) and invasion-related proteins (RhoA, Raf-1, c-fos), alongside enhanced immune cell populations and hematopoietic factors.

Conclusions:

  • Cordyceps sinensis exhibits a protective effect against NSCLC in a preclinical setting.
  • The primary mechanism involves the inhibition of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway.
  • C. sinensis enhances anti-tumor immunity by modulating immune cell function and reducing tumor cell proliferation and invasion.
Keywords:
Cordyceps SinensisMAPK pathwayNSCLCProteomicsTranscriptomics

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