The Medicinal Fungi Cryptoporus (Agaricomycetes): An Integrated Review of Taxonomic Advances, Chemodiversity Profiling, and Multidimensional Pharmacological Exploration

The genus Cryptoporus (Polyporaceae) has attracted significant attention in the fields of ethnopharmacology and drug discovery, owing to its distinctive chemodiversity and therapeutic potential. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the taxonomy, bioactive metabolites, and pharmacological properties of Cryptoporus species. Taxonomically, molecular phylogenetic analyses have validated Cryptoporus as a monophyletic clade, with three recognized species, C. volvatus, C. sinensis, and C. qinlingensis, exhibiting transcontinental distribution and specific host preferences. From a chemical perspective, these fungi are responsible for the production of structurally unique drimane sesquiterpenoids (44 characterized compounds) and immunomodulatory polysaccharides, in addition to ergosterol derivatives. Pharmacological investigations have revealed multifaceted bioactivities, including antitumor effects via cell cycle disruption and apoptosis induction, anti-inflammatory actions through TNF-α/IL-1β suppression, and antioxidant capacity demonstrated by ABTS radical scavenging. It is noteworthy that the species-specific drimane sesquiterpenoid profile places these compounds as potential quality markers (Q-markers) for phytopharmaceutical standardization. Whilst in vitro and animal studies have validated traditional uses in treating respiratory disorders and inflammatory conditions, clinical evidence remains lacking. This review aims to facilitate the utilization of Cryptoporus in modern precision medicine, thereby integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary pharmaceutical development.