Cordyceps & Cellular Energy
SCIENCE SERIES 03
About the Author
Jordan Pearson
Co-Founder, PURE JOY Mushrooms
Jordan holds a degree in Biomedical Sciences with a focus on Pharmacology. His academic background provided a foundation in human physiology and biochemical signalling, which continues to inform the PJM Science Series.
Today, he focuses on translating research in stress biology, neuroplasticity and cellular energy systems into clear, practical frameworks for modern performance and resilience.
Introduction
Energy is often reduced to a feeling.
But biologically, energy is a process.
Every movement, thought, heartbeat and breath depends on ATP — adenosine triphosphate — the primary energy currency of the cell.¹
ATP is produced inside mitochondria, microscopic organelles responsible for converting nutrients and oxygen into usable cellular energy.²
When mitochondrial efficiency declines, fatigue follows.
Not because motivation is lacking — but because cellular output is compromised.
What Is ATP?
ATP is generated primarily through:
• Oxidative phosphorylation²
• Glycolysis²
• The citric acid cycle²
Mitochondria require:
• Oxygen
• Substrate (glucose or fatty acids)
• Efficient enzyme activity
• Balanced redox signalling
When this system functions optimally, energy feels stable and sustained.
When it falters, stimulation is often used as a substitute.
But stimulation does not create ATP.
It temporarily alters perception of fatigue.³
Cordyceps & Cellular Bioenergetics
Cordyceps has been studied for its potential role in supporting cellular energy production.⁴
One bioactive compound often discussed is cordycepin (3’-deoxyadenosine) — structurally similar to adenosine, a molecule involved in ATP formation.⁴
Research suggests Cordyceps may influence:
• AMPK signalling pathways⁵
• Mitochondrial biogenesis⁵
• Oxygen utilisation efficiency⁶
• Cellular respiration dynamics⁴
AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) acts as an energy sensor within the cell. When activated appropriately, it supports metabolic efficiency and energy homeostasis.⁵
Rather than acting as a stimulant, Cordyceps appears to work upstream — at the level of cellular regulation.
Oxygen Utilisation & Endurance
Several studies have examined Cordyceps in relation to:
• VO₂ max
• Exercise endurance
• Fatigue resistance⁶
While outcomes vary depending on population and protocol, some human trials suggest improvements in aerobic capacity and oxygen utilisation.⁶
Efficient oxygen delivery supports:
• ATP synthesis
• Muscle endurance
• Cognitive stamina
Energy, in this context, becomes metabolic — not psychological.
Energy Without Overdrive
Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system by blocking adenosine receptors.³
This increases alertness but does not increase mitochondrial ATP production.³
Cordyceps appears to act differently.
Instead of blocking fatigue signalling, it may support pathways involved in energy production at the mitochondrial level.⁴ ⁵
The distinction matters.
Sustainable performance is built on efficiency — not intensity.
Mitochondria & Cognitive Output
The brain is highly energy-dependent.
Although it represents roughly 2% of body mass, it consumes approximately 20% of total energy expenditure.⁷
Mitochondrial dysfunction has been associated with:
• Brain fog
• Reduced cognitive endurance
• Mood instability
• Slower recovery from stress⁷
Supporting mitochondrial resilience supports mental clarity.
Energy and cognition are not separate systems.
They are interdependent.
This builds directly on Science Series 01 – Neuroplasticity, where adaptive capacity depends on sufficient cellular energy.
Stress & Energy Interplay
Chronic stress impairs mitochondrial efficiency.⁸
Elevated cortisol has been associated with:
• Increased oxidative stress⁸
• Disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential⁸
• Reduced ATP output⁸
Which is why stress regulation and energy production cannot be separated.
This connects directly to Science Series 02 – Cortisol & Neuroplasticity.
Energy requires regulation.
Regulation requires rhythm.
THE PJM PERFORMANCE TRIANGLE™
Plasticity
↓
Regulation
↓
Energy
Neuroplasticity (Series 01)
Cortisol Rhythm (Series 02)
Cellular ATP Production (Series 03)
Together they form a biological architecture for sustainable performance.
Practical Application
To support cellular energy production:
• Maintain consistent sleep cycles
• Avoid chronic overstimulation
• Support metabolic flexibility
• Train progressively (mitochondria adapt to stimulus)
• Consider nutritional compounds studied for bioenergetic support
Energy is not forced.
It is produced.
“Stimulation feels like energy.
Efficiency is energy.”
Supporting Energy with Functional Mushrooms
At PURE JOY Mushrooms, Cordyceps is included in our Morning Blend to support sustained, cellular-level energy — without reliance on overstimulation.
Built for clarity.
Built for endurance.
Built for balance.
Scientific Integrity & Transparency
This article summarises findings from peer-reviewed research in mitochondrial biology, exercise physiology and cellular bioenergetics.
It is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Where evidence is preliminary or population-specific, this is acknowledged.
References
¹ Nicholls DG & Ferguson SJ. Bioenergetics 4. Academic Press, 2013.