Enhancement of bioactive metabolites from solid-state fermentation of Cordyceps fungus using various substrates on ameliorating oxidative stress to liver health

Abstract

Cordyceps, a genus of Ascomycetes, represents a group of fungi that has attracted considerable attention from both the scientific community and practitioners of traditional medicine. Extensive research has established that Cordyceps exhibits various health-promoting properties, including antioxidant activity and enhanced liver function. Solid-state fermentation (SSF) is recognized as an effective method for cultivating microorganisms on solid substrates. Various optimization strategies for the medium have been employed to improve the production of high-quality bioactive substances. Most research has focused on combining Cordyceps fungi with diverse substrates, including grains, beans, herbal plants, fruits, etc. We explored the potential of these combinations in SSF, highlighting promising methods to increase mycochemical and metabolite yields from Cordyceps fungi, which hold broad application prospects, and the effects of antioxidants and related liver function. This review offers critical insights into effectively incorporating fungi and diverse materials within fermentation processes relevant to the nutritional, pharmacological, and biotechnological sectors. One-Sentence Summary: This review explores the potential of solid-state fermentation (SSF) to enhance the production of bioactive compounds from Cordyceps fungi using various substrates, highlighting its antioxidant and liver health benefits, and providing insights for applications in nutrition, pharmacology, and related industries.

Keywords: Antioxidant activity; Bioactive metabolites; Cordyceps fungus; Liver health; Solid-state fermentation.

Graphical Abstract

Fig. 1.

Illustration example of the SSF of Cordyceps fungus.

Fig. 2.

The impact of oxidative stress on hepatic function.

Fig. 3.

Pharmacological health benefits of Cordyceps fungus in general.

Fig. 4.

Bioactive compounds from Cordyceps fungus. (a) Cordycepin, (b) Adenosine, (c) Polysaccharide, (d) Flavonoid, (e) Phenolic acid, (f) D-mannitol, (g) Ergosterol.