Product Name: Cordycepin Powder
Purity: 98%
CAS Number: 73-03-0
Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₃N₅O₃
Molecular Weight: 251.24
Appearance: White to slightly yellow crystalline powder
Solubility: Soluble in water
Storage: Store at -20°C in a dark, inert gas environment to maintain stability and purity
Cordycepin is a structural analogue of adenosine and functions as a nucleoside antibiotic. It inhibits RNA synthesis and transcription elongation by incorporating into RNA molecules due to the absence of a hydroxyl group at the 3′ position. Additionally, it inhibits ATP-dependent DNA synthesis and exhibits anti-tumor activity in vitro . Cordycepin is primarily sourced from Cordyceps militaris, a traditional medicinal fungus widely used in both Eastern and Western herbal medicine .
Pharmacological and Biological Activities
Cordycepin has been extensively studied for its diverse pharmacological effects, including:
- Antiviral Activity: Cordycepin has shown potent antiviral effects against several viruses, including the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), influenza virus, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It exerts its anti-gammaherpesvirus activity by modulating epigenetic mechanisms, such as BCL7A methylation and histone modifications .
- Anti-Tumor Activity: Cordycepin inhibits the growth of various tumor cells in vitro and has demonstrated significant anti-cancer effects in preclinical studies. It also suppresses the replication of EBV in infected cells .
- Immunomodulatory Effects: Cordycepin enhances immune function by stimulating the production of sex hormones and increasing libido. It also supports the immune system by reducing oxidative stress and promoting cellular oxygen uptake .
- Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties: Cordycepin exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help in reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative damage .
- Neuroprotective and Renoprotective Effects: Studies have shown that cordycepin provides neuroprotection and protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury .
- Metabolic and Cardiovascular Benefits: Cordycepin improves metabolic function, enhances vascular health, and supports the treatment of cardiovascular conditions .
Applications
Cordycepin is widely used in various research and industrial applications, including:
- Pharmaceutical Research: As a nucleoside antagonist, cordycepin is used in the development of antiviral and anti-cancer drugs. It is also used in the study of viral replication and gene expression .
- Health Supplements: Cordycepin is a key component in health supplements, particularly those derived from Cordyceps militaris. It is used to enhance vitality, boost immunity, and support overall well-being .
- Biotechnology and Biochemistry: Cordycepin is used in biochemical research for its ability to inhibit RNA synthesis and as a model compound for studying nucleotide metabolism .
- Industrial and Commercial Use: High-purity cordycepin is supplied by reputable manufacturers and is used in the production of organic extracts, supplements, and pharmaceutical intermediates .
Quality and Compliance
- Certifications: The product is certified with RoHS, BRC, ISO, FDA, and HACCP standards, ensuring compliance with international quality and safety regulations .
- Analytical Methods: The purity of cordycepin is determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy .
- Supplier Information: The product is sourced from trusted suppliers such as FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation, Tocris Bioscience, and Qingdao Xigema Chemical Co., Ltd., which are known for their reliability and adherence to quality standards .
Conclusion
Cordycepin (3′-deoxyadenosine) is a versatile and valuable compound with a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities. Its high purity (98%) and structural similarity to adenosine make it an important tool in both research and clinical applications. Whether used in pharmaceutical development, health supplements, or biotechnological processes, cordycepin continues to play a significant role in advancing medical and scientific knowledge.
