Lion’s mane contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to its properties. Notably, hericenones (primarily found in the mushroom’s fruiting body) and erinacines (concentrated in the mushroom’s mycelia) have been shown to stimulate the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF) in astrocytes (a type of non-neuronal brain cell) located in the hippocampus.[1] NGF is responsible for regulating neuronal cell differentiation, proliferation, and survival in the brain, and increased NGF levels have been associated with improved neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. There are different types of hericenones, and most of them appear to contribute to the biosynthesis of NGF. Hericenone B has also demonstrated potential in preventing thrombosis (blood clots) and increasing blood flow, both of which play a role in dementia.[2][3] Additionally, lion’s mane has shown the capacity to enhance the myelination (production of myelin sheath) of neurons in vitro.[4]
Another key compound in lion’s mane is beta-glucan. In vitro studies have suggested that beta-glucans may have two beneficial effects: a cholesterol-lowering effect and an antitumor effect. The latter is due to the activation of macrophages, which are crucial components of the innate immune system and which play a role in the neuroregeneration processes within the central nervous system.[2]
Animal studies have also observed that lion’s mane might exhibit antidepressant-like effects by restoring depleted serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels in the hippocampi of restraint-stressed mice. However, the precise mechanism through which lion’s mane modulates the concentrations of these neurotransmitters remains unclear.[3]