A new study from the University of Nottingham’s School of Pharmacy has revealed promising insights into how Cordycepin, a compound derived from the caterpillar-infecting fungus Cordyceps militaris, may be effective in treating cancer. Known for its bright orange hue, this parasitic fungus produces Cordycepin, a compound that has shown anticancer potential in previous studies. However, until now, its precise mechanism was not fully understood.
The researchers employed high-throughput techniques to analyze Cordycepin’s impact on thousands of genes across various cell lines, discovering that Cordycepin disrupts specific growth-inducing pathways that cancer cells rely on to proliferate. Once inside the cell, Cordycepin converts into Cordycepin Triphosphate, which mimics ATP, the cell’s primary energy carrier. This transformation appears to directly interfere with cancer cell growth while sparing healthy cells, potentially offering a more targeted and less harmful approach than current cancer therapies.
Dr. Cornelia de Moor, who led the study, highlighted the significance of this discovery, explaining that Cordycepin’s ability to target particular genes could make it a valuable foundation for developing novel cancer treatments. She noted, “Our data confirms that Cordycepin is a good starting point for novel cancer medicines. We can also track specific gene activity to monitor Cordycepin’s effects in patients, offering a promising avenue for therapeutic application.”
This research not only advances the understanding of Cordycepin’s biological effects but also sets the stage for further exploration, with potential for creating drug derivatives that enhance the efficacy of Cordycepin in its triphosphate form.
