Thelephoric acid, p-terphenyl, induces bone-forming activities in pre-osteoblasts

•Thelephoric acid is a p-terphenyl compound isolated from the mushrooms of Polyozellus multiplex.•Thelephoric acid enhances ALP enzymatic activities in pre-osteoblasts.•Thelephoric acid enhances bone matrix mineralization in pre-osteoblasts.•Thelephoric acid enhances nuclear RUNX2 expression and accumulation via Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation.•Thelephoric acid enhances cell adhesion and migration in osteoblast differentiation.•Thelephoric acid is a potentially beneficial compound for prevention and treatment in bone diseases.