Page 143 - 2025中醫藥與天然藥物聯合學術研討會-中醫藥與天然藥物的挑戰Ｘ機遇與未來大會手冊

PC-25

To explore evidence-based mechanistic toxicology of Antrodia camphorata:

Synthesis, biopathways, and safety implications

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Chih-Wei Lai,* , Hsin-Che Pan, Yi-Han Wei, Zheng-Zong Lai, Hong-Jaan Wang
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1 School of Pharmacy, National Defense Medical Center, No.161, Sec. 6, Minquan E. Rd.,
Neihu Dist., Taipei City 11490, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
* E-mail: penghupharmacy@mail.ndmctsgh.edu.tw

Abstract
Antrodia cinnamomea, a medicinal fungus endemic to Taiwan, has attracted increasing
attention for its antioxidant and anticancer properties. Despite its growing popularity and annual
market expansion of 20–40% since 1999, concerns regarding its long-term safety have emerged
due to preclinical evidence of hepatotoxicity, adrenal toxicity, and ovarian damage. This study
aimed to elucidate the mechanistic toxicology of A. cinnamomea through a multidisciplinary
approach integrating computational modeling, chemical synthesis, cellular assays, and in vivo
evaluation. We employed in silico screening to identify toxicologically relevant compounds,
with a focus on para-quinone structures. High-priority candidates were synthesized and
subjected to cytotoxicity profiling, signaling pathway analysis, and structure–activity
relationship (SAR) studies. Animal models were used to assess the ADMET (Absorption,
Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) characteristics of selected compounds. Our
findings revealed distinct correlations between molecular structure and toxicity, enabling the
development of predictive models for safety assessment. Furthermore, several compounds with
toxic potential demonstrated notable anticancer activity, suggesting dual roles in therapeutic
development and risk management. This research provides a foundational framework for the
standardized evaluation of A. cinnamomea constituents and supports evidence-based regulation
of its medicinal applications.

Keywords: Antrodia cinnamomea; Hepatotoxicity; para-Quinone