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

<i>Cordyceps cicadae</i>, 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 <i>C. cicadae</i> 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.