The role of Rhizoma Paridis saponins on anti-cancer: The potential mechanism and molecular targets

Harnessing natural saponins: Advancements in mitochondrial dysfunction and therapeutic applications

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the development of a variety of diseases, notably neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and cancer. Natural saponins, which are intricate glycosides characterized by steroidal or triterpenoid structures, have attracted interest due to their diverse pharmacological benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-aging effects.

PURPOSE

This review synthesizes recent advancements in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction and explores how saponins can modulate mitochondrial function. It focuses on their potential applications in neuroprotection, cardiovascular health, and oncology.

STUDY DESIGN

The review incorporates a comprehensive literature analysis, highlighting the interplay between saponins and mitochondrial signaling pathways. Specific attention is given to the effects of saponins like ginsenoside Rg2 and 20(S)-protopanaxatriol on mitophagy and their neuroprotective, anti-aging, and synergistic therapeutic effects when combined.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive review of current research and clinical trials using PubMed, Google Scholar, and SciFinder databases. The search focused on saponins' role in mitochondrial function and their therapeutic effects, including "saponins", "mitochondria" and "mitochondrial function". The analysis primarily focused on articles published between 2011 and 2024.

RESULTS

The findings indicate that certain saponins can enhance mitophagy and modulate mitochondrial signaling pathways, showing promise in neuroprotection and anti-aging. Additionally, combinations of saponins have demonstrated synergistic effects in myocardial protection and cancer therapy, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Although saponins exhibit significant potential in modulating mitochondrial functions and developing innovative therapeutic strategies, their clinical applications are constrained by low bioavailability. Rigorous clinical trials are essential to translate these findings into effective clinical therapies, ultimately improving patient outcomes through a deeper understanding of saponins' impact on mitochondrial function.

Potential Anti-tumor Effects and Apoptosis-inducing Mechanisms of Saponins: A Review

The search for effective cancer therapies highlights saponins, natural plant-derived compounds, as promising anticancer agents. These compounds induce apoptosis in cancer cells by activating caspases, essential enzymes for cell death. For example, Soyasapogenol B from Glycine max and Astragaloside IV from Astragalus membranaceus effectively trigger apoptosis in cancer cells. Additionally, saponins, such as Compound K from American ginseng and Saikosaponin from Bupleurum falcatum, affect extrinsic and intrinsic pathways, including mitochondrial release of cytochrome C and activation of caspase-9. Ziyuglycoside II also acts on both pathways and activates the ROS/JNK pathway. Understanding these mechanisms provides promising prospects for developing more specific and safer anticancer therapies. The review utilized the ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. It was found that original articles and reviews from journals indexed in these sources emphasized the antitumor capabilities of saponins and discussed their role in apoptosis induction and caspase activation. The activation of caspases by saponins in the apoptotic pathway involves two main pathways: the extrinsic pathway is initiated by external signals that activate caspase-8, while the intrinsic pathway starts with internal stimuli, causing the release of cytochrome c and the activation of caspase-9. These pathways both lead to the activation of effector caspases (caspases 3, 6, and 7), culminating in apoptosis, an essential process for maintaining cellular balance and eliminating damaged cells. Identifying saponins in the context of cancer and their mechanisms of action is an ever-evolving field. Future research may lead to more targeted and personalized therapies, highlighting the collaboration between basic and clinical research in this promising area of medicine.