Secondary Metabolites and Potential Applications of Cordyceps and Allies

Cordyceps and its allied species have many applications in traditional medicine and biological control in some Asian countries, such as China, Japan, Korea, India, Thailand, and Vietnam. Many studies on Cordyceps and its allied species have been published, focusing on both its fundamental and applied aspects, globally, including metabolite profiles, secondary metabolites, and its biological activities such as antibacterial, anticancer, antifungal, antioxidant, antitumor, antiviral, and immunomodulatory activities. At the same time, the number of studies on the mechanisms of secondary metabolites of Cordyceps and its allies is increasing, which helps to elucidate the profound benefits or risks of the products that have been used for a long time. Most of the studies provided evidence that supports the use of these Cordyceps and their allied species in traditional medicine. However, there are also some studies that provide evidence that warns us of the harmful sides of the products. This chapter provides an update on secondary metabolites of Cordyceps and related species published recently and basic, systematic information about Cordyceps and its allies, including biodiversity, antagonistic abilities, secondary metabolite production abilities, functions and acting mechanisms of some well-known metabolites, fermentation, molecular and genetic technology applications, the present commercial situation of Cordyceps and its allied products, and development trends. Based on the diverse information, future prospects for Cordyceps and its allies in research and application are provided.