Potent agonist of the nociceptin (ORL1) receptor, demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. Selective, competitive antagonism at the nociceptin receptor has also been reported (pA2 = 7.02 and 6.75 in the guinea pig ileum and mouse vas deferens respectively).

Sappanone A is the first homoisoflavanone to be discovered with melanogenesis inhibitory activity. It exerts its anti-inflammatory effect by modulating the Nrf2 and NF-?oB pathways, and may be a valuable compound to prevent or treat inflammatory diseases.

Ganoderlactone D is a natural product.