Cordyceps cicadae Extracts Exert Antiaging Effects by Activating the AMPK/SIRT1 Pathway in d-Galactose-Induced Aging Rats.

Cordyceps cicadae, a valuable traditional edible and medicinal resource, is recognized for its potential in slowing aging but has not been effectively exploited. This study aimed to explore antiaging activity and mechanisms of C. cicadae extracts (CCe). We used liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify 23 CCe compounds and focused on quantifying six nucleoside components as quality markers. We also assessed the antiaging influences in d-galactose (d-gal)-induced aging rats. CCe improved learning memory deficits, enhanced organ indices, and mitigated oxidative brain damage caused by d-gal. CCe elevated superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, while downregulating malondialdehyde. Molecular analyses indicated the involvement of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase/sirtuin 1 (AMPK/SIRT1) pathway in the antiaging mechanism of CCe. This study demonstrates the potential of CCe in mitigating d-gal-induced damage in aging rats, with the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway emerging as a regulatory axis. These findings contribute to the theoretical foundation for developing antiaging pharmaceuticals and functional foods using CCe, offering promising applications in aging-related contexts in succinct manner.