Fungi of the genus Cordyceps (cordyceps) have been used in Asia for centuries as medicines to improve vitality and strengthen the immune system. Due to unique parasitic strategies, cordyceps have developed many bioactive substances with immunomodulatory properties. The purpose of this diploma was to review the literature and collect data on the efficacy and potential of using cordyceps for the treatment of immunological diseases. In recent decades, many in vitro and in vivo studies have been conducted that have demonstrated a direct link between immunomodulatory signaling pathways, apoptosis, and cordyceps compounds. Isolated polysaccharides and nucleosides are capable of regulating MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways, stimulating macrophages and other immune cells, regulating cytokine production, and regulating the course of programmed cell death at the transcriptional level. Studies have found both immunopotentiating and immunosuppressive properties of these compounds, suggesting versatility of cordyceps. In China and elsewhere in Asia, they are widely used as an adjunct to standard medical therapies. Cultivation is difficult in most species and the yield of extractions is relatively low, which makes availability (especially of the most popular O. sinensis) for drug production difficult. Dietary supplements with C. militaris and C. chanhua are popular, and available globally. They are being investigated in the context of chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis and Crohn's disease, due to their success in inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors.
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