Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst. as a Multi-Target Anticancer Agent

Abstract

Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst., commonly known as reishi or lingzhi, is one of the most extensively studied medicinal mushrooms. It has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries and is now increasingly recognised in modern biomedical research. It contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, sterols, phenolic compounds, alkaloids and immunomodulatory proteins, all of which contribute to its pharmacological properties. Of these, its anticancer activity has attracted significant attention due to its multi-target mechanisms, which involve the modulation of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, the reduction of oxidative stress, the activation of the immune system, and the regulation of tumour-related signalling pathways, such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK, NF-κB and p53. This review summarises the latest preclinical research demonstrating the inhibitory effects of G. lucidum and its derivatives on various cancers, including breast, liver, lung, gallbladder, osteosarcoma and colorectal cancers. Consistent results from both in vitro and in vivo studies show that bioactive compounds from G. lucidum suppress tumour proliferation, induce apoptosis, modulate the tumour microenvironment, and enhance the efficacy of conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Although limited, emerging clinical data suggest potential benefits in improving immune function, quality of life, and survival outcomes in cancer patients, particularly when used as an adjuvant therapy. Importantly, toxicological and safety assessments indicate a favourable safety profile. No significant adverse effects were observed in animal models or clinical trials at commonly used doses. However, potential interactions with anticoagulant, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic drugs emphasise the importance of careful clinical supervision. Despite the promising results, there are still significant gaps in our understanding of the precise molecular mechanisms of action and in the establishment of standardised dosing regimens. Therefore, well-designed clinical trials are required to validate its therapeutic efficacy fully and facilitate its integration into evidence-based oncology.