Lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible fungus used in traditional medicine, containing bioactive compounds like hericenones, erinacines, and hericenes that promote nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) synthesis, crossing the blood-brain barrier to support neurogenesis and neurite outgrowth in hippocampal neurons. These mechanisms enhance learning, memory, and recognition in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease, accelerated aging, and depression, while reducing amyloid plaques, oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal apoptosis. Preclinical studies show improvements in behavioral tests like the Morris Water Maze and novel object recognition, alongside increased neuronal proliferation markers such as PCNA and DCX. Limited human trials indicate potential benefits for mild cognitive impairment, with improved scores on scales like the Revised Hasegawa Dementia Scale and Mini Mental State Examination after supplementation, though results are mixed in healthy young adults and require larger placebo-controlled studies. No specific receptor or molecular target is directly modulated; instead, it exerts neuroprotective effects through pan-neurotrophic pathways converging on ERK1/2 signaling, positioning it as a supplement rather than a classic therapeutic target like enzymes or receptors.

Other names

Hericium erinaceusLion’s maneLion’s mane extractEAHEM (erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus mycelium)ERGO (ergothioneine)

Induction of NGF and BDNF synthesis via TrkA/Erk1/2 and MEK/ERK/PI3K-Akt pathways, Promotion of neurite outgrowth and neuronal proliferation, Reduction of amyloid plaque loading and glial activation, Decrease in oxidative stress markers (e.g., iNOS, TBARS, 8-OHdG), Enhancement of glutamatergic neurotransmission, Promotion of hippocampal neurogenesis