Ganoderma lucidum and the treatment of neuro- inflammation related to Autism Spectrum Disorder: A literature review

Isabella Ricks

Professor Stewart

CAP 501

January 15th, 2025 

Abstract

Ganoderma lucidum, commonly known as Reishi or Lingzhi, is a medicinal mushroom with a long history of therapeutic use, particularly in Asia. This literature review explores the bioactive properties of G. lucidum, particularly its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and analgesic effects through its makeup of triterpenes, polysaccharides, and proteins. The anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway and the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Inflammation in moderation is a healthy immune response but chronic inflammation is linked to the onset of many health disorders. Recently, the scientific literature has proposed a link between autism spectrum disorder to chronic and neuroinflammation. Chronic and neuroinflammation has been linked to the development and expression of autism spectrum disorder symptoms like sensory sensitivity, developmental delays, social misunderstandings, and special interests. The current scientific literature has implicated elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers TNF-a, IL-6, and IL-1B to autism spectrum disorder. This review evaluates the state of the current scientific literature regarding G. lucidum effects on inflammation and the potential therapeutic application these bioactive compounds have in managing autism spectrum disorder symptoms. These findings support G. lucidum's therapeutic potential in managing inflammatory diseases, cancer, and immune-related conditions. However, further clinical research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanisms and optimize its application in autism spectrum disorder symptom management.  

Introduction

The etiology of autism spectrum disorder is unclear, though many theories exist. Approximately 70 million people worldwide are affected which equals about 1 in every 100 individuals. Each case of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is unique with genetic, neuro-immune, and environmental factors influencing the development of the condition (Bell, et.al., 2019). ASD affects all races, ethnic groups, socioeconomic levels, and both genders with boys being more predisposed than girls (Bell, et.al., 2019). Current approaches to managing ASD include dietary changes, avoidance of environmental toxins like heavy metals, and the incorporation of dietary supplements like herbs and edible mushrooms (Bell, et.al., 2019). A particularly effective strategy includes herbs that decrease inflammation, improve the gut microbiome, raise immunity, and increase the rate of detoxification (Bell, et.al., 2019). ASD is considered a neurological disorder therefore the treatment of oxidative stress, linked to neuro-inflammation, is regarded as a high priority (Bell, et.al., 2019). The gut microbiota has recently been implicated in the manifestation of certain cognitive and neurological disorders like anxiety, depression, and ASD. Few studies have evaluated the dietary intake of individuals with ASD though it is known that many typically have dysregulated gut microbiota (Bell, et.al., 2019). The gut-brain axis has become a primary area of ASD research, particularly amygdala dysregulation and elevated serotonin levels as serotonin elevation in the brain is often found in individuals with ASD (Bell, et.al., 2019). Inflammation in the intestinal mucosa, which allows bacterial infections into the bloodstream, is a major contributing factor in developing immune dysfunction and thus elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-8, and IL-2 (Bell, et.al., 2019).

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and other edible mushrooms are commonly taken as immuno-supportive herbal medicines and as food items in many cultures, especially in China and Southeast Asia (Liu, et.al., 2024). Edible mushrooms are rich in dietary fiber, minerals, essential amino acids, and other bioactive compounds. Ganoderma lucidum contains important immunomodulatory compounds including terpenes, terpenoids, fungal immunomodulatory proteins, polysaccharides, and lectins that decrease inflammation and thus pro-inflammatory cytokines (Liu, et.al., 2024). Ganoderma lucidum also possesses many anti-inflammatory biological compounds. This mushroom grows in many climates across the world but prefers to grow in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions. It has been noted for its spiritual potency and treatment of various conditions such as anorexia, insomnia, chronic hepatitis, dizziness, arthritis, bronchitis, coronary heart disease, hypertension, cancer, and diabetes due to these powerful anti-inflammatory properties (Liu, et.al., 2024). These anti-inflammatory effects partially arise from recently uncovered meroterpenoids known as Ganoderma meroterpenoids (GMs) which are comprised of p-dihydroxy benzene and a terpene moiety (Liu, et.al., 2024). GM’s contain important properties such as being anti-allergenic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, renal-protective, obesity-inhibitory, anti-diabetic, tumor-suppressive, and inflammation-suppressive (Liu, et.al., 2024). This paper will focus on the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and the potential it holds in being used as a supplemental herbal treatment in managing symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (Liu, et.al., 2024).

Inflammation is an essential process that helps the body fight off invading pathogens like bacteria, parasites, and viruses. The presence of nitric oxide (NO) and cyclooxygenase-2 proteins are associated with the presence of inflammation making these biomarkers a reliable indicator (Siniscalco, et.al., 2018). Cytokines like IL-6, IL-8, and IL-2 are other biomarkers. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were found to be elevated in 97 medication-free children with ASD (Siniscalco, et.al., 2018). Another study found that pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 levels are increased in an ASD brain which affects the shape, length, and distribution of dendritic spines, which in turn affects neurotransmitter function (Siniscalco, et.al., 2018). Inflammation is a protective response designed to activate the immune system to restore homeostasis. Acute inflammation is typically beneficial and clears away unwanted pathogens to make way for the repair and regeneration of damaged tissue (Oronsky, et.al., 2022). However, chronic inflammation is the basis for many chronic issues since the runaway response becomes harmful and damages tissues and cells. This, in turn, leads to prolific reactive oxygen species production, the production of urate crystals, and the development of chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, MS, and other autoimmune disorders (Oronsky, et.al., 2022).

Inflammation is associated with ASD which is linked also to immune system dysfunction and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d). Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by social communication difficulties and repetitive patterns of activities, interests, and behaviors. Scientific literature has established neuro-inflammation and neuro-immune aberrations as prominent in ASD development and ongoing occurrence (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d). Signs and symptoms may include inconsistent eye contact, slow to respond to verbal cues, fascination with a specific topic, disharmonious facial expressions and movements that don’t match what is being said, becoming upset by changes in routine, and sensory sensitivity to light, sound, clothing, and temperature (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d). There are many other signs and not every case has similar expressions. There is no cure or clinical treatment for ASD. There are methods for managing social behaviors and sensory sensitivities. Medication may be prescribed for irritability and aggression, and psychologists may assist in formulating a behavioral plan (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d). Currently, there are few herbal remedies explored that are aimed at supporting what is happening in the body with ASD (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d).

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has many anti-inflammatory compounds that support the immune system and can be used as a supportive herb to reduce the neuro-inflammation and weakened immune system associated with autism spectrum disorder. There is a lack of studies that investigate directly the link between G. lucidum’s anti-inflammatory properties and the management of autism spectrum disorder. This literature review proposes that G. lucidum can be used as a viable herbal remedy to decrease the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and IL-2 found elevated in autistic brains and thus help manage the expression of autism spectrum disorder symptoms like sensory sensitivity and developmental delays.

Methods:

This paper will review experimental research on PubMed and Google Scholar within the last 20 years to examine the bioactive compounds in Ganoderma lucidum that have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce the neuro-inflammation and support the weakened immune system associated with autism spectrum disorder. This literature review searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Library Launchpad, NIH, HerbMedPro, and American Botanical Council. The search terms included "reishi mushroom", "Ganoderma lucidum", "neuro-inflammation and autism spectrum disorder" "neuro-inflammation", "inflammation and autism spectrum disorder", "inflammation", "reishi mushroom and inflammation" "reishi and neuro-inflammation", "reishi and autism spectrum disorder", "Ganoderma lucidum and neuro-inflammation", "Ganoderma lucidum and autism spectrum disorder.” Search terms were used across all mentioned databases to reduce introducing bias.

Studies were selected based on their focus on the therapeutic potential of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) in reducing inflammation and neuro-inflammation and included studies that affirmed, were inconclusive, or denied this therapeutic potential. Only peer-reviewed studies published within the last twenty years were included with emphasis placed on those studies that evaluated the effects of Ganoderma lucidum on inflammation and neuro-inflammation. Human and animal studies were included as were in vitro and in vivo studies. Other reviews and meta-analyses were excluded to maintain focus on experimental studies. Studies that were not peer-reviewed and studies older than twenty years were excluded from this review.

Results

Ganoderma lucidum (known also as Reishi or Lingzhi) has been historically used as medicine to treat a wide range of conditions, especially in Asia. This mushroom has been extensively studied for its diverse bioactivities and potential therapeutic applications. This medicinal mushroom demonstrates significant properties including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and analgesic effects. Its bioactive compounds, such as triterpenes, polysaccharides, and proteins, play key roles in mediating these effects. Below are the findings regarding these bioactivities supported by findings from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical, experimental studies.

• Anti-inflammatory effects: These anti-inflammatory effects are activated primarily through cytokine inhibition and NF-κB pathway suppression (Barbieri, et.al., 2017; Sheena, et.al., 2003; Liu, et.al., 2015).

• Anticancer potential: The anti-cancer action works by inhibiting cell migration and modulating cytokines and enzymes involved in cancer progression (Barbieri, et.al., 2017).

• Immunomodulation: Properties perform immunomodulation by enhancing immune responses and reducing systemic inflammation (Wu, et.al., 2016).

• Analgesic properties: Properties relieve inflammation-associated pain thereby inducing an analgesic effect (Sheena, et.al., 2003; Li, et.al., 2007).

These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of G. lucidum in managing inflammatory diseases, cancer, and immune-related conditions, warranting further clinical research. Possessing anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulation, and analgesic effects indicates G. lucidum is a viable candidate for managing the neuroinflammation linked to autism spectrum disorder.

Anti-inflammatory Activity

Molecular Mechanisms:

The anti-inflammatory activity of G. lucidum is primarily attributed to its ability to suppress the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) signaling pathway (Barbieri, et.al., 2017; Sheena, et.al., 2003). This pathway plays a key role in regulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Studies demonstrate that extracts containing Beta-glucan and triterpenes like Ganoderic Acid C1 significantly reduce levels of these cytokines thus mitigating inflammation (Liu, et.al., 2016). For example, research by Liu et.al. (2016) highlighted the reduction of inflammation in Crohn’s disease biopsy models and in subjects consuming high-cholesterol diets (Liu, et.al., 2016). The extracts showed efficacy in alleviating inflammation inhibiting key cytokines and enzymes associated with inflammatory pathways. Multiple studies surveyed in this literature review showed that G. lucidum and its extracts (including β-glucans and triterpenes like Ganoderic Acid C1) reduce inflammation by downregulating NF-κB signaling, a central pathway in inflammatory responses (Barbieri, et.al., 2017; Sheena, et.al., 2003; Liu, et.al., 2016). G. lucidum extracts reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, IFN-γ, MMP-2, and MMP-9 in various models, including Crohn's disease biopsies, cancer cells, and high-cholesterol diets (Liu, et.al., 2016).

Dose-dependent Effects:

Anti-inflammatory activity was observed in a dose-dependent manner, with significant effects at concentrations ranging from 250 μg/mL in cellular studies to 1000 mg/kg body weight in animal models. IL-1β, IL-12, TNF- α, and NO production was shown to also decrease in a dose-dependent manner when treated with 5-160 ug/ml of G. lucidum(Baribieri, et.al., 2017; Sheena, et.al., 2003). One study also indicated no significant effect was noted between control groups and TNF- α at concentrations of 5, 10, and 20 ug but noted a significant increase at 160 ug/ml again noting a dose-dependent response between concentrations of G. lucidum and anti-inflammatory biomarkers (Ahmadi K. & Riazipour, M., 2007).

Animal and Cellular Models:

Murine macrophages, human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and in vivo murine models have been created to study the anti-inflammatory effects of G. lucidum. Across these models, consistent reductions in cytokine production and inflammation have been observed (Kim, et.al., 2019; Liu, et.al., 2016). Data supports the potential application of G. lucidum in managing chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cardiovascular inflammation. Studies using murine macrophages (RAW 264.7 cells), murine models (Balb/c and Swiss albino mice), and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) consistently demonstrated a significant reduction in inflammatory responses (Kim, et.al., 2019; Liu, et.al., 2016).

Anticancer Properties

Effects on Cancer Cell Migration:

G. lucidum demonstrates a potent ability to inhibit cancer cell migration and metastasis. G. lucidum extracts inhibited the migration of aggressive cancer cell lines such as murine melanoma (B16F10) and triple-negative human breast cancer (MDA-MB231) with strong effects at concentrations of 250 μg/mL and above (Barbieri, et.al., 2017). There was a significant dose-dependent inhibitory effect on cell migration at concentration of 250 ug/mL in both cell lines. Reductions in cytokines IL-6 and IL-8, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) were shown to be critical components in suppressing cancer progression. Barbieri et.al. (2017) found that these effects were mediated by active compounds such as triterpenes, which disrupt pathways essential for tumor cell survival and dissemination. The inhibitory effects were comparable to or stronger than combination treatments involving curcumin and G. lucidum. G. lucidum at 2 mg/mL significantly reduced cellular levels of IL-8, IL-6, MMP-2, and MMP-9 by 28%, 25%, 15%, and 22% compared to untreated cells (Barbieri, et.al., 2017). This indicates a powerful effect on IL-8, IL-6, MMP-2, and MMP-9 biomarkers.

Cytokine Modulation in Cancer:

G. lucidum extracts were shown to not only modulate cytokine activity but to induce apoptosis in cancer cells (Barbieri, et.al., 2017). These extracts also decreased the levels of cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (IL-6, IL-8, MMP-2, MMP-9), which are critical for cancer progression, invasion, and metastasis. Another study by Jiang et.al., (2006) showed that G. lucidum extracts inhibited the proliferation of non-invasive and invasive breast cancer cells through their work on treating non-invasive, estrogen-dependent (MCF-7) and invasive, estrogen-dependent (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cells with 0-0.25 mg/ml of G. lucidum for 24 and 48 hours. This same study showed that G. lucidum inhibited TNF-a stimulated NF-kB activity in MCF-7 cells (Jiang, et.al., 2006).

Immunomodulatory Activity

Beta-Glucan Role:

Polysaccharides, particularly β-1,3-1,6 glucans from G. lucidum, act as immunomodulators by:

*Enhancing phagocytic activity of macrophages (Wu, et.al., 2016).

* Increasing the number of natural killer (NK) cells (Wu, et.al., 2016).

*Activating cytokine secretion (e.g., IL-2) to strengthen the immune system (Wu, et.al., 2016).

Beta-glucan has been shown to have a modulatory effect on inflammation that’s induced by a high-cholesterol diet by reducing biomarkers of inflammation in the liver and other organs. Mushroom Beta-1,3-1,6 glucan is a complex high molecular weight polysaccharide present in the cell wall of mushrooms (Wu, et.al., 2016). Immunomodulatory functions include raising phagocytic activity of macrophages and increasing the number of natural killer cells to enhance ability to stimulate cytokines and thus activate the immune system (Wu, et.al., 2016). Macrophages, dendritic cells, and other nonimmune cells received receptor type 2 – a beta-glucan receptor. This study showed that a high-cholesterol diet led to a high number of eosinophils, an increase in IL-5, and high concentrations of PGE2 and MCP-1 formed in lung tissue. A high-cholesterol diet created an observed inflammatory response in the heart, liver, kidney, spleen, and colon tissues (Wu, et.al., 2016). In another study by Liu, et.al., (2022) the role of beta-glucans was investigated. An alamar blue assay detected the growth of Caco-2 cells after being treated with GLP, GLPC, GLPN for 48 hours. Results showed that the survival rate of cells treated with each fraction (50-500 ug/mL) ranged from 96.21 to 102.34% indicating beta-glucan fractions had no apparent cytotoxicity on the growth of Caco-2 cells. Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides were shown to significantly inhibit LPS-induced cytokine expression at certain concentrations which indicates that Beta-glucans possessed an anti-inflammatory potential in LPS-inflamed Caco-2 cells. Beta-glucan GLPC and GLPN exhibited better inhibitory activity compared with original GLP indicating that lower molecular weight Beta-glucans may possess better anti-inflammatory activity in colitis (Liu, et.al., 2022). 

Systemic Effects:

G. lucidum extracts reduced systemic inflammation in organs like the heart, liver, kidney, spleen, and colon, particularly in models with diet-induced inflammation. In a study performed on Crohn’s disease (CD), results indicated that Ganoderic Acid C1 (GAC1) decreased TNF-α production by macrophages and PBMCs from CD subjects (Liu, et.al., 2016). GAC1 significantly decreased TNF- α, IFN-y, and IL-17A production observed through inflamed colonic biopsies from CD subjects. Effects were due to down-regulation of the NF-kB signaling pathway (Liu, et.al., 2016). GAC1 showed a significant inhibitory effect at concentrations as low as 10ug/mL and GAC1 showed no significant cytotoxicity at any dose tested (Liu, et.al., 2016). Another study by Hsu, et.al., (2018) investigated the effects of G. lucidum triterpenoids on carotid arteries in atherogenesis. These results showed that Ganoderma triterpenoids (GT’s) alleviated oxidative stress and inflammation which prevented neointimal hyperplasia I ligated arteries (Hsu, et.al., 2018).

Mechanisms of Action

NF-κB Inhibition:

The suppression of the NG-kB signaling pathway is a central mechanism underlying the bioactivities of G. lucidum. By inhibiting this pathway, Reishi mushroom effectively reduces cytokine-mediated inflammation, immune dysregulation, and cancel cell survival. Several studies pinpointed NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa B cells) as the main molecular target of G. lucidum (Barbieri, et.al., 2017; Jiang, et.al., 2006). This pathway plays a key role in regulating immune responses, inflammation, and cancer. NF-κB signaling was downregulated in both macrophages and tissues leading to reduced cytokine production (Barbieri, et.al., 2017; Jiang, et.al., 2006).

Inflammatory Factors:

Key compounds such as Ganoderic Acid C1 and Beta-glucans contribute to the anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immunomodulatory effects. These compounds exhibit a synergistic action that enhances therapeutic efficacy without significant cytotoxicity. Ganoderic acids, such as Ganoderic Acid C1, demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects without significant cytotoxicity (Chen, et.al., 2023). TNF- α, and IL-6 promoted the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 which indicated an anti-infection immune response in periodontal tissues in mice (Chen, et.al., 2023).

LZ-8

Among the emerging research is a study that investigated the potential of G. lucidum to exhibit neuroprotective effects. This study isolated the immunomodulatory protein LZ-8 and showed activation of murine and human T cells, stimulated IL-2 production in human T cells, and enhanced FOXP3 regulatory T cell expansion in both murine and human CD4 T cells (Yeh Hsu, et.al., 2013). LZ-8 treatment induced regulatory activity in T cells potentially mediated by CD45 receptor interactions and was shown to inhibit PHA-induced T-cell proliferation with findings suggesting potential therapeutic applications in managing immune dysregulation associated with autism spectrum disorder (Yeh Hsu, et.al., 2013).  

Analgesic (Anti-nociceptive) Activity

Chronic and Acute Models:

Ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of G. lucidum demonstrated analgesic activity in murine models of acute and chronic inflammation (Sheena, et.al., 2008). Methanol extracts at 1000 mg/kg body weight showed a significantly higher activity than reference drugs like Diclofenac effectively reducing inflammatory pain responses and abdominal constrictions. Ethyl acetate and methanol extracts at this concentration inhibited 41.6 and 58.3% inflammation (Sheena, et.al., 2003). Methanol extracts possessed significant anti-nociceptive activity while the ethyl acetate extract had only weak analgesic activity (Sheena, et.al., 2003). However, a study testing the efficacy of G. lucidum and San Miao San supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis did not find a significant anti-inflammatory effect but did exhibit analgesic effects (Li, et.al., 2007).

Discussion

This literature review discovered that G. lucidum has many bioactive compounds, specifically triterpenes, polysaccharides, and proteins, that have potent anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and analgesic properties that treat a wide range of conditions. The purpose of this review was to uncover whether the anti-inflammatory properties of G. lucidumcould attenuate symptoms in autism spectrum disorder. These symptoms include sensory sensitivity, developmental delays, social misunderstandings, special interests, and more. The anti-inflammatory effects of G. lucidum are primarily mediated through the NF-kB signaling pathway which regulates the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-a, IL-6, IL-8, and IL1B (Barbieri, et.al., 2017). Studies involving murine and human models revealed significant reductions in cytokine production and systemic inflammation suggesting that G. lucidum is a powerful herb to use in cases of heightened and chronic inflammation (Barbieri, et.al., 2017; Wu, et.al., 2016; Sheena, et.al., 2003). These findings are further validated across the various studies included in this review which evaluated diverse experimental models and analyzed the various connections between G. lucidum and macrophages, PBMCs and in vivo studies.

These results indicate that G. lucidum could be a viable alternative to pharmaceutical medication in calming common autistic spectrum disorder symptoms. There are many well-designed studies in the scientific literature regarding G. lucidum compounds and inflammation. There are also many studies, outside of the scope of this literature review, that link neuroinflammation to autism spectrum disorder (Toscano, et.al., 2021). It naturally follows that G. lucidum could be a powerful medicine to be used in lowering neuroinflammation and thereby reducing autism spectrum disorder symptoms. To strengthen the connection between G. lucidum, and autism spectrum disorder, future studies will need to directly research this link by researching the effects of G. lucidum on populations with autism spectrum disorder and without. There are currently few to no studies that research this link leaving a void to be filled by future research. It was difficult to compare standard doses of G. lucidum as they varied across the studies included in this literature review leaving that open to interpretation with no dosage being the same. This elucidates the need for standard protocols and standard extract preparation to further validate these results. Most studies confirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of G. lucidum though some were inconclusive regarding dose and some only elucidated the analgesic effects of G. lucidum. Many of these studies were older as it appeared interest in G. lucidum research waned throughout the years with an uptick in new research only in the last couple of years. The long history of G. lucidumlends itself to the belief that this herb is generally safe to use however studies done on long-term use and safety should be undertaken to prove this.

Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by immune system irregularities including heightened inflammatory responses such as increased levels of cytokines IL-1B, IL-2, and TNF-a (Adams, et.al., 2022). These are the same cytokines that G. lucidum has shown effectiveness against. The missing link in the current scientific literature is the direct evaluation of G. lucidum on autism spectrum disorder symptoms. Autism spectrum disorder affects millions worldwide and there is no current cure or standard clinical treatment that works to manage all symptoms. Directly treating one of the evaluated links to autism spectrum disorder, neuroinflammation, opens possibilities for finding a viable and long-term solution in treating mild and severe cases.

Conclusion

G. lucidum, historically valued for its medicinal properties, continues to demonstrate promising therapeutic potential across a wide range of health conditions. The studies included in this literature review validate its diverse bioactivities, including its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and analgesic effects which are mainly mediated by its bioactive compounds including triterpenes, polysaccharides, and proteins. The molecular mechanisms elucidated throughout this review, specifically the ability of G. lucidum to affect NF-kB inhibition and the therapeutic actions of Ganoderic Acid C1 and Beta-glucans illuminate the synergistic efficacy of G. lucidum without evidence of short or long-term cytotoxicity. This literature review synthesized the current state of the scientific literature regarding G. lucidum’s bioactive compounds’ effects on inflammation which showed promising therapeutic application in managing autism spectrum disorder symptoms. Further research should focus on directly evaluating G. lucidum and its effectiveness in managing autism spectrum disorder symptoms such as sensory sensitivity, social misunderstands, special interests, and more. Once standard dosages and extraction methods have been set, the future of G. lucidumresearch is bright.  

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