A Review of the Bioactivities and Biosynthesis of Ganoderma lucidum Triterpenoids

Ganoderma triterpenoids (GTs) are primarily extracted from the mycelium of Ganoderma lucidum <i>(G. lucidum)</i>, with the main active components being ganoderic acid (GAs). They belong to the lanosterane type of tetracyclic triterpenoids and typically feature C30 and C26 skeletons. The diverse bioactivities of GTs are determined by various substituents at C-3, C-7, C-11, and C-15 on the tetracyclic skeleton, as well as the C-17 β side chain. Recent studies have revealed the antitumor, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, proangiogenic, antimalarial, antituberculosis, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-aging properties of GTs. They demonstrate potential in treating and preventing a variety of conditions including cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia, thus showcasing a broad spectrum of applications and research significance in the medical field. This paper provides a review of the bioactivity of GTs isolated from G. lucidum in recent years and discusses the regulation of GTs biosynthesis, laying a foundation for the development of new drugs derived from <i>G. lucidum</i>.