Tiger milk mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerus) protected human cells from oxidative damage in a lab model of Friedreich’s ataxia, a rare neurodegenerative disease. The ethanol extract improved cell survival, boosted antioxidant activity (like superoxide dismutase), and restored healthy mitochondrial function. Key genes tied to energy production and cell metabolism were also activated, pointing to its potential as a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant for neuroprotection.