Ganoderone A is a tetracyclic triterpenoid that is 5alpha-lanosta-8,24-diene substituted by a hydroxy group at position 26 and oxo groups at positions 3 and 7. Isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma pfeifferi, it exhibits against herpes simplex virus. It has a role as a metabolite and an anti-HSV-1 agent. It is a primary alcohol, a tetracyclic triterpenoid and a diketone. It derives from a hydride of a lanostane. Ganoderone A exhibits potent inhibitory activity against herpes simplex virus. Ganoderone A exhibits strong inhibitory activities against Vero cells (IC50 is 0.3 ug/mL); it also has inhibition against cancer cell lines K562, SW620, and HL60, the 50% inhibiting concentration( IC50) are 9. 61, 22. 38, 7. 14 mg/L, respectively.