Hericenones From Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Pers.: A Scoping Review of Structural Diversity and Health Benefits

Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Pers., an edible and medicinal mushroom, has garnered significant scientific interest due to its rich array of bioactive compounds. Extensive research has highlighted the pharmacological properties of its constituents, including neuroprotective, neurotrophic, immunomodulatory, and anticancer activities. Among interesting bioactive secondary metabolites in H. erinaceus, hericenones-a structurally unique class of geranyl-resorcinol derivatives-have emerged as particularly promising pharmacological agents. This review comprehensively covers the 24 known natural hericenones and one semisynthetic derivative, detailing their structural elucidation with a focus on characteristic NMR spectroscopy to provide a systematic identification guide. Furthermore, the review discusses their biosynthesis, isolation methodologies, and beneficial biological properties. These include the stimulation of nerve growth factor (NGF), as well as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiplatelet, and anti-obesity. By integrating chemical and pharmacological perspectives, this work underscores the promise of hericenones as lead compounds for the development of novel therapeutics.