Effect of Cordyceps militaris extract on T-lymphocyte, Th2, and Th17 cytokines in vitro and in vivo

Abstract

Cordyceps militaris has been used in traditional medicine due to its immune-boosting functions, especially in elderly and cancer patients. The study aims to assess the impact of C. militaris extract on the immune response in LPS-induced splenocytes and male Sprague Dawley rats. The study found that CME contains various bioactive compounds such as adenosine, cordycepin (3′ deoxyadenosine), and phenolic compounds. In vitro studies showed that CME has the potential to enhance CD3⁺ T cell and CD45RA⁺ B cell populations in LPS-induced splenocytes with a cell viability of over 80%. Moreover, we found that CME can enhance the immune response in rats by increasing CD3⁺ T cell proliferation and up-regulating IL-4, IL-6, and IL-17a expression, without affecting the rat’s body weight. The findings suggest that CME could be a promising immune enhancer for patients with weakened immune systems. However, further animal experiments with varying doses are essential to determine the optimal dosage for the successful development of CME as a therapeutic agent.