Hericium erinaceus extracts promote neuronal differentiation and excitability through nootropic metabolite activity

This study investigates the effects of a blend of Hericium erinaceus (lion’s mane mushroom) extract on the differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells, a human neuroblastoma cell line, revealing potential therapeutic implications for neuroblastoma management. Treatment with this blend induced cells differentiation towards a neuron-like profile, as evidenced by enhanced neuronal excitability and upregulation of neuronal markers, such as βIIItubulin and synaptotagmin. Additionally, the treatment significantly reduced PCNA, a key regulator of proliferation, alongside a decrease in stemness markers, indicating a shift toward a more mature and less proliferative phenotype. These findings demonstrate the ability of Hericium erinaceus to promote neuronal differentiation and inhibit proliferation in neuroblastoma cells, highlighting its therapeutic potential for managing neuroblastoma and potentially other neurological disorders. The results suggest that Hericium erinaceus may serve as a promising candidate for the development of novel neuroregenerative therapies.