Evaluation of the adaptogenic potential exerted by ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 against oxidative stress-mediated neurotoxicity in an in vitro neuronal model

Metabolomics-based analysis of nitric oxide regulation of ginseng herb quality

BACKGROUND

Ginsenosides, the primary active ingredients in Panax ginseng, are secondary metabolites. However, their content varies significantly across batches due to differences in environmental conditions and production methods. Ecological stress can increase the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants, and ROS can enhance secondary metabolism. Nitric oxide (NO) can promote the production of O2 ·- and H2O2. This study utilized physiological and non-targeted metabolomics to investigate how NO regulates ginseng quality and how P. ginseng adapts to adversity.

RESULTS

Sodium nitroprusside (SNP, an NO donor) at 0.5 mmol·L-1 significantly increased ROS levels, with O2 ·- increasing by 64.3% (P < 0.01) and H2O2 by 79.2% (P < 0.01). Nitric oxide influenced P. ginseng metabolism, with 24 metabolites showing significant differences. Rotenone, lactic acid, and gluconic acid, which are involved in ROS metabolism, increased significantly, whereas tyrosine decreased. Metabolites involved in secondary metabolic pathways, including campesterol, ginsenosides Rh1, Rb1, Rc, Rd, Rg3, phenylalanine, and tryptophan, increased markedly, whereas 2,3-oxidosqualene, glucose 1-phosphate, ferulic acid, and pyrogallol decreased. Isocitric acid, succinic acid, and 3-isopropylmalic acid, associated with respiratory metabolism, showed significant increases, but pyruvic acid decreased. Finally, 18:0 Lyso PC and 9-hydroxy-10E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid, linked to cell membrane protection, increased significantly, and mannose and raffinose decreased.

CONCLUSION

Sodium nitroprusside enhances the physiological resilience of P. ginseng under stress and improves its quality. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Pharmacological Mechanism and Drug Research Prospects of Ginsenoside Rb1 as an Antidepressant

This review explores the antidepressant effects of ginsenoside Rb1, a natural compound in traditional Chinese medicine, and its potential for treating major depressive disorder (MDD). The aetiology of depression was reviewed up to 2024, focusing on the pathways and mechanisms through which ginsenoside Rb1 may exert its effects. Notably, ginsenoside Rb1 regulates oxidative stress and inflammatory processes while enhancing neural plasticity by downregulating miR-134 expression and alleviating depressive symptoms. Unlike traditional antidepressants that act on a single target, ginsenoside Rb1 interacts with multiple pathways, reflecting its potential for broader therapeutic application. To compensate for the current deficiency in animal experiments, clinical data, and research on the side effects of ginsenoside Rb1 in the treatment of depression, we reviewed some clinical data on the use of this component in the treatment of other diseases to explore its relevance to depression. Ginsenoside Rb1 is expected to serve as a novel antidepressant or as a complementary component in combination with other antidepressant compounds. However, further clinical trials and molecular studies are necessary to confirm its efficacy and potential side effects.

Ginsenosides Rg1, Rb1 and rare ginsenosides: Promising candidate agents for Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease and network pharmacology analysis

Ginseng has been commonly used as a traditional Chinese medicine in Asian countries for thousands of years. Ginsenosides are the main pharmacologically active ingredients isolated from ginseng and have neuroprotective effects in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). To summarise and investigate the protective roles of ginsenosides and their underlying mechanisms in PD and AD, we used ''Ginsenoside", ''Parkinson's disease", ''Alzheimer's disease", ''anti-inflammatory", ''antioxidant", and ''apoptosis" as keywords to search and extract relevant literature information from scientific databases such as Elsevier, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. In particular, we used network pharmacology to identify the potential targets of ginsenosides Rg1 and Rb1 in PD and AD. By analysing the existing research advances and network pharmacology results, we found that the neuroprotective effects of ginsenosides, primarily mediated through anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis and anti-oxidative stress, etc, may be associated with the PI3K/Akt, BDNF/TrkB, MAPKs, NF-κB, Nrf2 and Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathways. This review systematically summarises the different roles and mechanisms of ginsenosides Rg1, Rb1, and rare ginsenosides in PD and AD and provides new strategies for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Network pharmacology provides a new research paradigm for the treatment of PD and AD using Rg1 and Rb1.

Mechanism of sodium nitroprusside regulating ginseng quality

The roots of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (ginseng) are one of the traditional medicinal herbs in Asian countries and is known as the "king of all herbs". The most important active components of ginseng are the secondary metabolite saponins, which are closely related to ecological stress. Unsuitable ecological stress can generate a large amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), by which the secondary metabolism is regulated, and the quality of herbs can be significantly improved. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) treatment on the quality of fresh ginseng roots. In this study, 5-year-old fresh ginseng was exposed to 0.1, 0.5, and 2 mmol/L SNP, a nitric oxide (NO) donor for five consecutive days. SNP significantly increased the levels of O2·-, H2O2, malondialdehyde (MDA), NADPH oxidase (NOX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxides (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbate (AsA) and GSH/GSSG. The main root treated by 0.5 mmol/L SNP for three days was the best, with the activities of the key enzymes of the ginsenoside synthesis pathway, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR), farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPS), squalene synthase (SS), squalene epoxidase (SE), and dammarane diol-II synthase (DS) activities increased markedly; the ginsenosides Rg1 + Re, Rb1, Rf, Rc, Rg2 + Rh1 and the total ginsenoside contents increased by 51.0%, 77.7%, 44.6%, 26.8%, 63.2% and 48.2%, respectively, but only a trace amount of the ginsenoside monomer Rb2 decreased 23.4%. The fibrous roots treated by 0.1 mmol/L SNP for four days showed the best effect, HMGCR, FPS, SS, SE, and DS also increased significantly; ginsenosides Rg1 + Re, Rb1, Ro, Rc, Rf, Rb3, Rb2, and total saponin contents increased 37.6%, 47.8%, 34.2%, 75.1%, 51.0%, 49.4%, 28.3%, and 20.4%, respectively. The 1,3-diphosphoglycerate (1,3-DPG) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC), related to primary metabolism, were also significantly elevated. The Morris water maze (MWM), histopathological analysis and oxidative stress indexes in brain tissues were used to evaluate the anti-aging effect, indicating that the SNP-treated ginseng further ameliorated D-gal-induced the impaired memory function and oxidative stress in mice, implying the efficacy of SNP-treated ginseng was better than untreated ginseng's. SNP can build the physiological state of ginseng under ecological stress, stimulate the antioxidant protection mechanism, increase the secondary metabolites, and improve the quality of ginseng.

Comprehensive PRISMA Based Systematic Review: Exploring the Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Profile and Clinical aspects of Panax ginseng

INTRODUCTION

Ginseng, a perennial herb belonging to the Araliaceae family, is renowned for its traditional and folk uses. The Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer species is predominantly found in Asian countries, including Japan, China, and Korea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This manuscript offers valuable insights into the cultivation, collection, morphology, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and clinical studies of Ginseng. The data was meticulously gathered from diverse electronic resources, such as PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science, spanning from 1963 to 2023.

RESULTS

Ginseng contains various bioactive components, including carbohydrates, polyacetylenic alcohols, polysaccharides, ginsenosides, peptides, vitamins, and fatty acids. The biological attributes of ginsenosides, which include anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, render them especially remarkable.

CONCLUSION

This manuscript comprehensively explores the versatile therapeutic applications of ginseng in the treatment of various types of cancers.

Anti-Aging Effect of Traditional Plant-Based Food: An Overview

Aging is a complex process that involves many physiological mechanisms that gradually impair normal cellular and tissue function and make us more susceptible to diseases and death. It is influenced by intrinsic factors like cellular function and extrinsic factors like pollution and UV radiation. Recent scientific studies show that traditional plant-based foods and supplements can help mitigate the effects of aging. Nutraceuticals, which are dietary supplements with medicinal properties, have gained attention for their ability to prevent chronic and age-related diseases. Antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, terpenes, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, minerals, etc. found in plants are key to managing oxidative stress, which is a major cause of aging. Well-known plant-based supplements from Bacopa monnieri, Curcuma longa, Emblica officinalis, Ginkgo biloba, Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Panax ginseng have been found to possess medicinal properties. These supplements have been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce oxidative stress, improve overall health, and potentially extend life and enhance the excellence of life. The obtained benefits from these plant species are due to the presence of their bioactive secondary metabolites, such as bacosides in Bacopa monnieri, curcumin in Curcuma longa, ginsenosides in Panax ginseng, and many more. These compounds not only protect against free radical damage but also modulate key biological pathways of aging. Also, traditional fermented foods (tempeh and kimchi), which are rich in probiotics and bioactive compounds, support gut health, boost immune function, and have anti-aging properties. The molecular mechanisms behind these benefits are the activation of nutrient-sensing pathways like AMPK, SIRT/NAD+, and mTOR, which are important for cellular homeostasis and longevity. This review shows the potential of traditional plant-based foods and dietary supplements for healthy aging, and more studies are needed to prove their efficacy and safety in humans. Incorporating these natural products into our diet may be a practical and effective way to counteract the effects of aging and overall well-being. The foremost goal of this review is to emphasize the importance of supporting the body's antioxidant system by consuming the right balance of natural ingredients in the diet.

Research progress of traditional Chinese medicine compound "Xiaochaihu Decoction" in the treatment of depression

Depression is a common psychiatric disorder under the category of depression syndrome in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory. Meanwhile, Xiaochaihu Decoction is a classical TCM formulation regulating Qi, resolving and dissipating stagnation. Clinically, the formulation has long been adopted to treat Shaoyang stagnation syndrome for depression syndrome. In this review, potential targets of action and the corresponding pathways of Xiaochaihu Decoction are explored for depression treatment via network pharmacology. The article also systematically summarizes the active components and pharmacological mechanisms of seven Chinese herbal medicine components in Xiaochaihu Decoction and guides the future study direction of Xiaochaihu Decoction, which may serve a promising treatment for depression.

The neuroprotective effect of ginsenoside Rb1 on the cerebral cortex changes induced by aluminium chloride in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease: A histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical study

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common types of dementia among neurodegenerative disorders characterized by attention deficits and memory loss. Panax ginseng is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy that has been employed for millennia to manage dementia linked with aging and memory impairment. Ginsenoside Rb1 is one of Panax ginseng's most abundant components. The present work evaluated the neuroprotective effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on the cerebral cortex of AlCl₃-induced AD in adult male albino mice. Forty male mice were alienated arbitrarily into; control group, ginsenoside Rb1 group (70 mg/kg/day), AlCl₃ group (50 mg/kg/day), and ginsenoside Rb1-AlCl₃ group that received ginsenoside Rb1 one hour before AlCl₃. Oxidative stress parameters, Amyloid β (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau protein, and acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity were measured. Cerebral cortex sections were evaluated histologically by light microscopic examination and immunohistochemistry. AlCl₃-induced memory impairment, Aβ and phosphorylated tau protein accumulation, and AChE elevation. Moreover, histopathological alterations in the cerebral cortex were reported in the form of irregular shrunken neurons and the surrounding neuropil showed vacuolation. Some neurons appeared with darkly stained nuclei, others had faintly stained ones. The synaptophysin expression was significantly decreased, while the expression of cleaved caspase-3, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1) were significantly elevated. It's interesting to note that these changes were attenuated in mice pretreated with ginsenoside Rb1. Collected data indicated that ginsenoside Rb1 showed a potential neuroprotective effect against cerebral cortex changes caused by AlCl₃ via suppression of Amyloid β and phosphorylated tau protein formation, oxidative stress correction, anti-apoptotic effect, and by minimizing gliosis.

Holothuria scabra extracts confer neuroprotective effect in C. elegans model of Alzheimer's disease by attenuating amyloid-β aggregation and toxicity

Background and aim

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common aged-related neurodegenerative disorder that is associated with the toxic amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation in the brain. While the efficacies of available drugs against AD are still limited, natural products have been shown to possess neuroprotective potential for prevention and therapy of AD. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of H. scabra extracts against Aβ aggregation and proteotoxicity in C. elegans model of Alzheimer's diseases.

Experimental procedure

Whole bodies (WB) and body wall (BW) of H. scabra were extracted and fractionated into ethyl acetate (WBEA, BWEA), butanol (WBBU, BWBU), and ethanol (BWET). Then C. elegans AD models were treated with these fractions and investigated for Aβ aggregation and polymerization, biochemical and behavioral changes, and level of oxidative stress, as well as lifespan extension.

Results and conclusion

C. elegans AD model treated with H. scabra extracts, especially triterpene glycoside-rich ethyl acetate and butanol fractions, exhibited significant reduction of Aβ deposition. These H. scabra extracts also attenuated the paralysis behavior and improved the neurological defects in chemotaxis caused by Aβ aggregation. Immunoblot analysis revealed decreased level of Aβ oligomeric forms and the increased level of Aβ monomers after treatments with H. scabra extracts. In addition, H. scabra extracts reduced reactive oxygen species and increased the mean lifespan of the treated AD worms. In conclusion, this study demonstrated strong evidence of anti-Alzheimer effects by H. scabra extracts, implying that these extracts can potentially be applied as natural preventive and therapeutic agents for AD.

Taxonomy classification by EVISE

Alzheimer's disease, Neurodegenerative disorder, Traditional medicine, Experimental model systems, Molecular biology.

Ginsenoside and Its Therapeutic Potential for Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment (CI) is one of the major clinical features of many neurodegenerative diseases. It can be aging-related or even appear in non-central nerve system (CNS) diseases. CI has a wide spectrum that ranges from the cognitive complaint with normal screening tests to mild CI and, at its end, dementia. Ginsenosides, agents extracted from a key Chinese herbal medicine (ginseng), show great promise as a new therapeutic option for treating CI. This review covered both clinical trials and preclinical studies to summarize the possible mechanisms of how ginsenosides affect CI in different diseases. It shows that ginsenosides can modulate signaling pathways associated with oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis. The involved signaling pathways mainly include the PI3K/Akt, CREB/BDNF, Keap1/Nrf2 signaling, and NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathways. We hope to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of CI for related diseases by ginsenosides.

Impact of ginseng on neurotoxicity induced by cisplatin in rats

Over the years, many researches have shown the potential protective effects of ginseng for preventing and treating neurological damage and their related diseases. Neuronal disturbance is one of the most common serious effects of cisplatin chemotherapy that triggers memory impairment and cognitive disability. Based on the hypothesis that mechanistic pathways of ginseng against the neurological and biochemical disturbance remain unclear, therefore, this study was designed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of ginseng extract against neurological and behavior abnormality induced by cisplatin in male rats. Animals were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 served as a control, group 2 was orally administrated with ginseng (100 mg/kg BW) daily for 90 days, group 3 was injected intraperitoneally with cisplatin (4 mg/kg BW) once a week for 90 days, and group 4 received ginseng and cisplatin. Cisplatin induced a learning and memory dysfunction in the Morris water maze task and locomotor disability in the rotarod test. In addition, cisplatin disrupted the oxidant/antioxidant systems, neuroinflammatory molecules (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12, and IL-1β), neurotransmitters, and apoptotic (caspase-3, P53, and Bax) and dementia markers (amyloid-β40 and amyloid-β 42). Co-treatment with ginseng extracts successfully ameliorated the cognitive behaviors and intramuscular strength and presented a good protective agent against neurological damage. Histopathological and histochemical studies proved the neuroprotective effect of ginseng. Our data showed that ginseng capable to counteract the memory dysfunction is induced by cisplatin via reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation restoring the neurological efficiency.

Antioxidant Phytochemicals for the Prevention of Fluoride-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis: a Review

Fluorosis is a major public health problem globally. The non-availability of specific treatment and the irreversible nature of dental and skeletal lesions poses a challenge in the management of fluorosis. Oxidative stress is known to be one of the most important mechanisms of fluoride toxicity. Fluoride promotes the accumulation of reactive oxygen species by inhibiting the activity of antioxidant enzymes, resulting in the excessive production of reactive oxygen species at the cellular level which further leads to activation of cell death processes such as apoptosis. Phytochemicals that act as antioxidants have the potential to protect cells from oxidative stress. Evidence confirms that clinical symptoms of fluorosis can be mitigated to some extent or prevented by long-term intake of antioxidants and plant products. The primary purpose of this review is to examine recent findings that focus on the amelioration of fluoride-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis by natural and synthetic phytochemicals and their molecular mechanisms of action.

Pharmacological Modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway as a Therapeutic Target of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder featuring both motor and nonmotor symptoms associated with a progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Oxidative stress (OS) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PD. Genetic and environmental factors can produce OS, which has been implicated as a core contributor to the initiation and progression of PD through the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) orchestrates activation of multiple protective genes, including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), which protects cells from OS. Nrf2 has also been shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects and modulate both mitochondrial function and biogenesis. Recently, a series of studies have reported that different bioactive compounds were shown to be able to activate Nrf2/antioxidant response element (ARE) and can ameliorate PD-associated neurotoxin, both in animal models and in tissue culture. In this review, we briefly overview the sources of OS and the association between OS and the pathogenesis of PD. Then, we provided a concise overview of Nrf2/ARE pathway and delineated the role played by activation of Nrf2/HO-1 in PD. At last, we expand our discussion to the neuroprotective effects of pharmacological modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 by bioactive compounds and the potential application of Nrf2 activators for the treatment of PD. This review suggests that pharmacological modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway by bioactive compounds is a therapeutic target of PD.

The Ginsenoside Rg1 Rescues Mitochondrial Disorders in Aristolochic Acid-Induced Nephropathic Mice

Chronic exposure to aristolochic acid (AA) leads to renal interstitial fibrosis and nephropathy. In this study, we aimed to investigate the renoprotective effects of Panax ginseng extract (GE) and ginsenoside saponin (GS) on AA-induced nephropathy (AAN) in mice. Eighty female C3H/He mice were randomly divided into eight groups, including normal; AA (3 μg/mL for 56 days); AA with GE (125, 250, or 500 mg/kg/d for 14 days); and AA with important GE ingredients, Rg₁, Rb₁, or Rd (5 mg/kg/d for 14 days). Compared with the AA group, renal injuries were significantly decreased in the GE (250 mg/kg/d), Rb₁, and Rg₁ treatment groups. Rg₁ exhibited the best renoprotection among all GS-treated groups. There were 24 peaks significantly altered among normal, AA, and AA + Rg₁ groups, and four mitochondrial proteins were identified, including acyl-CoA synthetase medium-chain family member 2, upregulated during skeletal muscle growth 5 (Usmg5), mitochondrial aconitase 2 (ACO2), and cytochrome c oxidase subunit Va preprotein (COX5a). We demonstrated for the first time that the AAN mechanism and renoprotective effects of Rg₁ are associated with expression of mitochondrial proteins, especially ACO2, Usmg5, and COX5a.

Advances in Biocatalytic Synthesis, Pharmacological Activities, Pharmaceutical Preparation and Metabolism of Ginsenoside Rh2

Ginsenoside Rh2 (3β-O-Glc-protopanaxadiol), a trace but characteristic pharmacological component of red ginseng, exhibited versatile pharmacological activities, such as antitumor effects, improved cardiac function and fibrosis, anti-inflammatory effects, antibiosis and excellent medicinal potential. In recent years, increased research has been performed on the biocatalytic synthesis of ginsenoside Rh2. In this paper, advances in the biocatalytic synthesis, pharmacological activities, pharmaceutical preparation and metabolism of ginsenoside Rh2 are reviewed.

Phytochemistry of ginsenosides: Recent advancements and emerging roles

Ginsenosides, a group of tetracyclic saponins, accounts for the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical relevance of the ginseng (Panax sp.) herb. Owing to the associated therapeutic potential of ginsenosides, their demand has been increased significantly in the last two decades. However, a slow growth cycle, low seed production, and long generation time of ginseng have created a gap between the demand and supply of ginsenosides. The biosynthesis of ginsenosides involves an intricate network of pathways with multiple oxidation and glycosylation reactions. However, the exact functions of some of the associated genes/proteins are still not completely deciphered. Moreover, ginsenoside estimation and extraction using analytical techniques are not feasible with high efficiency. The present review is a step forward in recapitulating the comprehensive aspects of ginsenosides including their distribution, structural diversity, biotransformation, and functional attributes in both plants and animals including humans. Moreover, ginsenoside biosynthesis in the potential plant sources and their metabolism in the human body along with major regulators and stimulators affecting ginsenoside biosynthesis have also been discussed. Furthermore, this review consolidates biotechnological interventions to enhance the biosynthesis of ginsenosides in their potential sources and advancements in the development of synthetic biosystems for efficient ginsenoside biosynthesis to meet their rising industrial demands.

Autophagy in vascular dementia and natural products with autophagy regulating activity

Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion(CCH)-induced vascular dementia(VD) is a common neurodegenerative disease which seriously affects the patient's quality of life. Therefore, it is critical to find an effective treatment of VD. Autophagy is a natural regulated mechanism that can remove dysfunctional proteins and organelles, however, over-activation or under-activation can of autophagy can induce the apoptosis of cells. Although autophagy plays a role in the central nervous system is unquestionable, the effects of autophagy in the ischemic brain are still controversial. Some autophagy regulators have been tested, suggesting that both activation and inhibition of autophagy can improve the cognitive function. This article reviews the role of autophagy in CCH-induced VD to discuss whether autophagy has the potential to become a target for drug development and provides several potential compounds for treating vascular dementia.

Natural products targeting mitochondria: emerging therapeutics for age-associated neurological disorders

Mitochondria are the primary source of energy production in the brain thereby supporting most of its activity. However, mitochondria become inefficient and dysfunctional with age and to a greater extent in neurological disorders. Thus, mitochondria represent an emerging drug target for many age-associated neurological disorders. This review summarizes recent advances (covering from 2010 to May 2020) in the use of natural products from plant, animal, and microbial sources as potential neuroprotective agents to restore mitochondrial function. Natural products from diverse classes of chemical structures are discussed and organized according to their mechanism of action on mitochondria in terms of modulation of biogenesis, dynamics, bioenergetics, calcium homeostasis, and membrane potential, as well as inhibition of the oxytosis/ferroptosis pathway. This analysis emphasizes the significant value of natural products for mitochondrial pharmacology as well as the opportunities and challenges for the discovery and development of future neurotherapeutics.

ShenmaYizhi Decoction Improves the Mitochondrial Structure in the Brain and Ameliorates Cognitive Impairment in VCI Rats via the AMPK/UCP2 Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND

ShenmaYizhi decoction (SMYZD) is an effective prescription of traditional Chinese medicine used to treat vascular dementia (VD). Modern research methods have identified its active ingredients clearly as gastrodin, ferulic acid, ginsenosides, and β-sitosterol. Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion is a driving factor or risk factor for VD, which leads to the disturbance of mitochondrial structure and function.

PURPOSE

To observe whether SMYZD improves cognitive impairment by improving mitochondrial structure and function.

METHODS

Forty adult rats with vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) caused by the bilateral ligation of common carotid arteries were divided into four groups randomly, including the model group, donepezil group, and low-dose and high-dose SMYZD groups, with 10 rats in each group. Additionally, a sham group was established with 10 rats as the control group. The treatment groups were administered donepezil and two different dosages of SMYZD. The donepezil group was administered 0.45 mg/kg/d donepezil, and the SMYZ-L group was administered 2.97 g/kg/d SMYZ, which were equivalent to the clinical dosage. The SMYZ-H group was administered 11.88 g/kg/d SMYZ, which is 4 times higher than the clinically equivalent dosage. A sham-operated group was used as the control group and administered an equal volume of distilled water. The rats were treated by gavage for 8 consecutive weeks. Morris water maze (MWM) test was performed to evaluate the learning and memory ability. The mitochondria of brain tissue were extracted from brain for further test. Mitochondrial morphology and the signal path of AMPK/PPARα/PGC-1α/UCP2 in mitochondria were detected.

RESULTS

With the SMYZD intervention, behavioral performance of rats and pathological changes of mitochondria of brain tissue were significantly improved. In the serum, SOD, GSH-Px, and GSH activities were increased, and the MDA content was decreased. Moreover, the AMPK, PPARα, PGC-1α, UCP2, and ATP5A mRNA and protein expression levels were also reversed by SMYZD.

CONCLUSION

SMYZD may provide a potential therapeutic strategy via activating the AMPK/PPARα/PGC-1α/UCP2 signal pathway to improve mitochondrial structure and energy metabolism thereby alleviate vascular cognitive impairment.

Ginsenoside Rb1 protected PC12 cells from Aβ25-35-induced cytotoxicity via PPARγ activation and cholesterol reduction

Accumulating evidences suggest that amyloid β (Aβ)-peptide plays a key role in pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) through aggregation and deposition into plaques in neuronal cells. Membrane components such as cholesterol and gangliosides not only enhance the production of amyloidogenic Aβ fragments, but also appear to strengthen Aβ-membrane interaction. Ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1) is a major active component of Panax, which is widely used to improve learning and memory. In the present study, whether ginsenoside Rb1 could protect pheochromocytoma cells (PC12 cells) from Aβ_25-35-induced cytotoxicity including inhibiting cell growth, inducing apoptosis, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), destroying the cytoskeleton and bringing about membrane toxicity was investigated. Our results indicated that ginsenoside Rb1 could serve as an agonist of peroxisom proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and reduce the level of cholesterol in AD model cells. Reduction of the Aβ_25-35-induced cytotoxicity by lowering cholesterol was evidenced by reduction of ROS production, lipid peroxidation, and protection of cytoskeleton and membrane surface rigidity. Most importantly, the viability of PC12 cells increased from 50.42 ± 5.51% for the AD group to 102.72 ± 4.34% for the 50 μM ginsenoside Rb1 group with cholesterol reduction. Our results suggested that ginsenoside Rb1 might function as an effective candidate to promote reverse cholesterol transport and lower ROS production, therefore providing a new insight into prevention and treatment of AD.

Review of ginsenosides targeting mitochondrial function to treat multiple disorders: Current status and perspectives

Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis and prognosis of many common disorders, including neurodegeneration, stroke, myocardial infarction, tumor, and metabolic diseases. Ginsenosides, the major bioactive constituents of Panax ginseng (P. ginseng), have been reported to play beneficial roles in the molecular pathophysiology of these diseases by targeting mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we first introduce the types of ginsenosides and basic mitochondrial functions. Then, recent findings are summarized on different ginsenosides targeting mitochondria and their key signaling pathways for the treatment of multiple diseases, including neurological disorders, cancer, heart disease, hyperglycemia, and inflammation are summarized. This review may explain the common targets of ginsenosides against multiple diseases and provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms, facilitating research on the clinical application of P. ginseng.

Chemical constituents of Panax ginseng and Panax notoginseng explain why they differ in therapeutic efficacy

Panax ginseng (Meyer) and Panax notoginseng (Burkill), belonging to the family Araliaceae, are used worldwide as medicinal and functional herbs. Numerous publications over the past decades have revealed that both P. notoginseng and P. ginseng contain important bioactive ingredients such as ginsenosides and exert multiple pharmacological effects on nervous system and immune diseases. However, based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, their applications clearly differ as ginseng reinforces vital energy and notoginseng promotes blood circulation. In this article, we review the similarities and differences between ginseng and notoginseng in terms of their chemical composition and pharmacological effects. Their chemical comparisons indicate that ginseng contains more polysaccharides and amino acids, while notoginseng has more saponins, volatile oil, and polyacetylenes. Regarding pharmacological effects, ginseng exhibits better protective effects on cardiovascular disease, nerve disease, cancer, and diabetes mellitus, whereas notoginseng displays a superior protective effect on cerebrovascular disease. The evidence presented in this review facilitates further research and clinical applications of these two herbs, and exploration of the relationship between the chemical components and disease efficacy may be the critical next step.

Recent Advances in the Tissue Culture of American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)

The in vitro tissue culture of medicinal plants is considered as a potential source for plant-derived bioactive secondary metabolites. The in vitro tissue culture of American ginseng has wide commercial applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, food, and cosmetic fields with regard to the production of bioactive compounds such as ginsenosides and polysaccharides. This review highlights the recent progress made on different types of tissue culture practices with American ginseng, including callus culture, somatic embryo culture, cell suspension culture, hairy root culture, and adventitious root culture. The tissue culture conditions for inducing ginseng callus, somatic embryos, cell suspension, hairy roots, and adventitious roots were analyzed. In addition, the optimized conditions for increasing the production of ginsenosides and polysaccharides were discussed. This review provides references for the use of modern biotechnology to improve the production of bioactive compounds from American ginseng, as well as references for the development and sustainable utilization of American ginseng resources.

Adaptogenic effects of Panax ginseng on modulation of cardiovascular functions

Cardiovascular diseases are a rapidly growing epidemic with high morbidity and mortality. There is an urgent need to develop nutraceutical-based therapy with minimum side effects to reduce cardiovascular risk. Panax ginseng occupies a prominent status in herbal medicine for its various therapeutic effects against inflammation, allergy, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer, with positive, beneficial, and restorative effects. The active components found in most P. ginseng varieties are known to include ginsenosides, polysaccharides, peptides, alkaloids, polyacetylene, and phenolic compounds, which are considered to be the main pharmacologically active constituents in ginseng. P. ginseng is an adaptogen. That is, it supports living organisms to maintain optimal homeostasis by exerting effects that counteract physiological changes caused by physical, chemical, or biological stressors. P. ginseng possesses immunomodulatory (including both immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive), neuromodulatory, and cardioprotective effects; suppresses anxiety; and balances vascular tone. P. ginseng has an antihypertensive effect that has been explained by its vasorelaxant action, and paradoxically, it is also known to increase blood pressure by vasoconstriction and help maintain cardiovascular health. Here, we discuss the potential adaptogenic effects of P. ginseng on the cardiovascular system and outline a future research perspective in this area.

Hormesis and Ginseng: Ginseng Mixtures and Individual Constituents Commonly Display Hormesis Dose Responses, Especially for Neuroprotective Effects

This paper demonstrates that ginseng mixtures and individual ginseng chemical constituents commonly induce hormetic dose responses in numerous biological models for endpoints of biomedical and clinical relevance, typically providing a mechanistic framework. The principal focus of ginseng hormesis-related research has been directed toward enhancing neuroprotection against conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases, stroke damage, as well as enhancing spinal cord and peripheral neuronal damage repair and reducing pain. Ginseng was also shown to reduce symptoms of diabetes, prevent cardiovascular system damage, protect the kidney from toxicities due to immune suppressant drugs, and prevent corneal damage, amongst other examples. These findings complement similar hormetic-based chemoprotective reports for other widely used dietary-type supplements such as curcumin, ginkgo biloba, and green tea. These findings, which provide further support for the generality of the hormetic dose response in the biomedical literature, have potentially important public health and clinical implications.

Comparison of the Protective Effects of Ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 on Improving Cognitive Deficits in SAMP8 Mice Based on Anti-Neuroinflammation Mechanism

This present study was designed to investigate the different effects of ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 on improving cognitive deficits in 4-month-old SAMP8 mice. Mice were divided into six groups, including the SAMP8 group, the SAMP8 + Donepezil (1.6 mg/kg) group, the SAMP8 + Rb1 (30 and 60 µmol/kg), and SAMP8 + Rg1 (30 and 60 µmol/kg) groups. SAMR1 mice of the same age were used as the control group. Ginsenosides and donepezil were administrated orally to animals for 8 weeks, then the learning and memory ability of mice were measured by using Morris water maze (MWM) test, object recognition test and passive avoidance experiments. The possible mechanisms were studied including the anti-glial inflammation of Rb1 and Rg1 using HE staining, immunohistochemistry and western blot experiments. Results revealed that Rb1 and Rg1 treatment significantly improved the discrimination index of SAMP8 mice in the object recognition test. Rb1 (60 µmol/kg) and Rg1 (30, 60 µmol/kg) could significantly shorten the escape latency in the acquisition test of the MWM test in SAMP8 mice. Furthermore, Rb1 and Rg1 treatments effectively reduced the number of errors in the passive avoidance task in SAMP8 mice. Western blot experiments revealed that Rb1 showed higher effect than Rg1 in decreasing protein expression levels of ASC, caspase-1 and Aβ in the hippocampus of SAMP8 mice, while Rg1 was more effective than Rb1 in decreasing the protein levels of iNOS. In addition, although Rb1 and Rg1 treatments showed significant protective effects in repairing neuronal cells loss and inhibiting the activation of astrocyte and microglia in hippocampus of SAMP8 mice, Rb1 was more effective than Rg1. These results suggest that Rb1 and Rg1 could improve the cognitive impairment in SAMP8 mice, and they have different mechanisms for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Ginsenoside Rg1 fails to rescue PTSD-like behaviors in a mice model of single-prolonged stress

Previous studies reported that ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) exerts antidepressant-like effect in animal models of depression. However, its effect on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains elusive; PTSD is a common and costly psychiatric condition with negative cognitive and affective dysfunctions, such as anxiety and depression. In this study, we evaluated the role of Rg1 in a validated mice model of PTSD induced by single-prolonged stress (SPS). Sertraline, one of the FDA-approved medications for PTSD was used as a positive control. Our results showed that SPS exposure led to increased anxiety-like and despair-like behaviors. SPS exposure also caused enhanced contextual fear memory and overgeneralization of learned fear. Sertraline significantly ameliorated those abnormal behaviors induced by SPS, while Rg1 did not. Meanwhile, we found that sertraline but not Rg1 blocked the suppressive effect of SPS on adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Consistently, we found that SPS elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level in the serum, which was inhibited by sertraline but not Rg1. Our results thus demonstrate that Rg1 at a dose used to treat depression may not be effective to rescue behavioral deficits associated with PTSD.

Ginsenoside Rg1 alleviates repeated alcohol exposure-induced psychomotor and cognitive deficits

Background

Chronic alcohol consumption disrupts psychomotor and cognitive functions, most of which are subserved by the dysfunction of hippocampus. Dysregulated excitatory glutamatergic transmission is implicated in repeated alcohol induced psychomotor and cognitive impairment. Ginsenoside Rg1, one of the main active ingredient of the traditional tonic medicine Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer (Araliaceae), has been used to treat cognitive deficits. Particularly, Rg1 has been demonstrated to improve hippocampus-dependent learning in mice and attenuate glutamate-induced excitotoxicity in vitro. Thus, in the present research, we sought to investigate the therapeutic effects of Ginsenoside Rg1 on repeated alcohol induced psychomotor and cognitive deficits in hippocampal-dependent behavioral tasks and unravel the underpinnings of its neuroprotection.

Methods

Male ICR (CD-1) mice were consecutively intragastrically treated with 20% (w/v) alcohol for 21 days. Then, behavior tests were conducted to evaluate repeated alcohol induced psychomotor and cognitive deficits. Histopathological changes, and biochemical and molecular alterations were assessed to determine the potential neuroprotective mechanism of Rg1.

Results

The results suggested that Rg1, at the optimal dose of 6 mg/kg, has the potential to ameliorate repeated alcohol induced cognitive deficits by regulating activities of NR2B containing NMDARs and excitotoxic signaling.

Conclusion

Our findings further provided a new strategy to treat chronic alcohol exposure induced adverse consequences.

Stereoisomer-specific ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3 reverses replicative senescence of human diploid fibroblasts via Akt-mTOR-Sirtuin signaling

BACKGROUND

The replicative senescence of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) is accompanied by growth arrest. In our previous study, the treatment of senescent HDFs with Rg3(S) lowered the intrinsic reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and reversed cellular senescence by inducing peroxiredoxin-3, an antioxidant enzyme. However, the signaling pathways involved in Rg3(S)-induced senescence reversal in HDFs and the relatedness of the stereoisomer Rg3(R) in corresponding signaling pathways are not known yet.

METHODS

We performed senescence-associated β-galactosidase and cell cycle assays in Rg3(S)-treated senescent HDFs. The levels of ROS, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) as well as the mitochondrial DNA copy number, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+/1,4-dihydronicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) ratio, and NAD-dependent sirtuins expression were measured and compared among young, old, and Rg3(S)-pretreated old HDFs. Major signaling pathways of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt, 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and sirtuin 1/3, including cell cycle regulatory proteins, were examined by immunoblot analysis.

RESULTS

Ginsenoside Rg3(S) reversed the replicative senescence of HDFs by restoring the ATP level and NAD+/NADH ratio in downregulated senescent HDFs. Rg3(S) recovered directly the cellular levels of ROS and the NAD+/NADH ratio in young HDFs inactivated by rotenone. Rg3(S) mainly downregulated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt through the inhibition of mTOR by cell cycle regulators like p53/p21 in senescent HDFs, whereas Rg3(R) did not alter the corresponding signaling pathways. Rg3(S)-activated sirtuin 3/PGC1α to stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis.

CONCLUSION

Cellular molecular analysis suggests that Rg3(S) specifically reverses the replicative senescence of HDFs by modulating Akt-mTOR-sirtuin signaling to promote the biogenesis of mitochondria.

Shengui Sansheng Pulvis maintains blood-brain barrier integrity by vasoactive intestinal peptide after ischemic stroke

Background Shengui Sansheng Pulvis (SSP) has about 300 years history used for stroke treatment, and evidences suggest it has beneficial effects on neuro-angiogenesis and cerebral energy metabolic amelioration post-stroke. However, its protective action and mechanisms on blood-brain barrier (BBB) is still unknown. Purpose Based on multiple neuroprotective properties of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in neurological disorders, we investigate if SSP maintaining BBB integrity is associated with VIP pathway in rat permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) model. Methods Three doses of SSP extraction were administered orally. Evaluations of motor and balance abilities and detection of brain edema were performed, and BBB permeability were assessed by Evans blue (EB) staining. Primary brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation, and incubated with high dose SSP drug-containing serum and VIP-antagonist respectively. Transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) assay and Tetramethylrhodamine isothiocyanate (TRITC)-dextran (4.4 kDa) and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran (70 kDa) were used to evaluate the features of paracellular junction. Western blot detected the expressions of Claudin-5, ZO-1, Occludin and VE-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2/9 and VIP receptors 1/2, and immunofluorescence staining tested VIP and Claudin-5 expressions. Results Our results show that SSP significantly reduces EB infiltration in dose-dependent manner in vivo and attenuates TRITC- dextran and FITC-dextran diffusion in vitro, and strengthens endothelial junctional complexes as represented by decreasing Claudin-5, ZO-1, Occludin and VE-cadherin degradations and MMP 2/9 expression, as well as promoting TEER in BMECs after ischemia. Moreover, it suggests that SSP notably enhances VIP and its receptors 1/2 expressions. VIP-antagonist exacerbates paracellular barrier of BMECs, while the result is reversed after incubation with high dose SSP drug-containing serum. Additionally, SSP also improve brain edema and motor and balance abilities after ischemic stroke. Conclusions we firstly demonstrate that the ameliorated efficacy of SSP on BBB permeability is related to the enhancements of VIP and its receptors, suggesting SSP might be an effective therapeutic agent on maintaining BBB integrity post-stroke.

Protective effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on H2O2-induced oxidative injury in human endothelial cell line (EA.hy926) via miR-210

Ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) possesses a cardioprotective effect via mediating microRNAs (miRs), while it is unexplored whether miR-210 is regulated by Rb1 in response to oxidative stress. Human endothelial EA.hy926 cells were stimulated with H₂O₂ before Rb1 treatment. After transfection, cell viability, apoptosis, migration, and invasion assays were conducted. Western blot was applied to quantify protein. BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19-kDa interacting protein 3 (BNIP3) and miR-210 were analyzed with quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Dual luciferase activity assay was performed. Rb1 elevated viability, migration, and invasion of H₂O₂-treated cells. H₂O₂-induced apoptosis was moderated by Rb1. miR-210 was augmented in H₂O₂-treated cells after Rb1 stimulation. miR-210 inhibitor abolished the positive effects of Rb1. BNIP3 was negatively modulated by miR-210 and implicated in modulating viability, apoptosis, and migration and invasion. In addition, BNIP3 modulated phosphorylation of regulators. Rb1 repressed oxidative injury via elevating miR-210. miR-210 negatively mediated BNIP3, which participated in oxidative damage via regulating mammalian targets of rapamycin (mTOR) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB).

Neuroprotection mediated by natural products and their chemical derivatives

Neuronal injuries can lead to various diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, trauma, ischemia and, more specifically, glaucoma and optic neuritis. The cellular mechanisms that regulate neuronal death include calcium influx and calcium overload, excitatory amino acid release, oxidative stress, inflammation and microglial activation. Much attention has been paid to the effective prevention and treatment of neuroprotective drugs by natural products. This review summarizes the neuroprotective aspects of natural products, extracted from Panax ginseng, Camellia sinensis, soy and some other plants, and some of their chemical derivatives. Their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory action and their inhibition of apoptosis and microglial activation are assessed. This will provide new directions for the development of novel drugs and strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases.

The Protective Effect of Korean Red Ginseng Against Rotenone-Induced Parkinson's Disease in Rat Model: Modulation of Nuclear Factor-κβ and Caspase-3

OBJECTIVE

Korean red ginseng was reported to have many biological effects like the antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory activities. Oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation play major roles in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). The current study aimed to investigate the protective effects of ginseng on rotenone-induced PD in rats.

METHODS

Rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups: normal rats, rotenone control, ginseng+rotenone and ginseng only treated rats. The severity of PD was evaluated through locomotor activity perceived in the open field test, histological examination and immunohistochemical detection of amyloid-β in brain tissues, in addition to the biochemical assessment of tyrosine hydroxylase activity in brain tissues. Moreover, the following parameters were investigated for studying the possible mechanisms of ginseng neuroprotective effect: nuclear factor-κβ (NF-κβ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), caspase- 3, lipid peroxides and reduced glutathione (GSH).

RESULTS

Ginseng exhibited potent neuroprotective effect that was reflected upon the histopathological examination, marked improvement in the locomotor activity and through its ability to suppress the amyloid- β deposition in the cortex and striatum along with significant increase in the tyrosine hydroxylase activity. Ginseng successfully inhibited the NF-κβ inflammatory pathway in brain tissues beside the inhibition of other oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, it exhibited antiapoptotic effect via the inhibition of caspase-3 expression.

CONCLUSION

Ginseng could be a promising treatment in PD. It can suppress dopaminergic neuron degeneration through variable mechanisms mainly via inhibition of NF-κβ pathway in addition to inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis.

The protective mechanisms underlying Ginsenoside Rg1 effects on rat sciatic nerve injury

Ginsenoside Rg1 (GsRg1), derived from the herb Ginseng, was found to exert protective effects in nerve injury; however, the mechanisms underlying these effects remain to be determined. Oxidant stress and apoptosis are known to be involved in sciatic nerve injury. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine whether GsRg1 was able to modify sciatic nerve injury in a rat model. The following parameters were measured: (1) number of spinal cord motoneurons by Nissl staining, (2) oxidation parameters including spinal cord malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) as well as (3) involvement of apoptosis by determining caspase-3 and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The number of spinal cord motoneurons was significantly reduced after sciatic nerve injury, while treatment with GsRg1 markedly elevated cell number. Sciatic nerve injury markedly increased spinal cord MDA content concomitant with reduced activities of SOD and GSH-Px. GsRg1 significantly decreased MDA content accompanied by elevated activities of SOD and GSH-Px. Further nerve injury significantly diminished protein expression levels of XIAP accompanied by elevated protein expression levels of caspase-3 in the spinal cord. GsRg1 markedly increased protein expression levels of XIAP, but significantly reduced protein expression levels of caspase-3. Data suggest that the protective effects of GsRg1 in sciatic nerve injury may be associated with reduced oxidative stress involving anti-apoptotic pathways.

Therapeutic Potential of Pien-Tze-Huang: A Review on Its Chemical Composition, Pharmacology, and Clinical Application

Pien-Tze-Huang (PTH) is a famous and commonly used traditional Chinese medicine formula in China. It was first formulated by a royal physician of the Ming Dynasty (around 1555 AD). Recently, PTH has attracted attention worldwide due to its beneficial effects against various diseases, especially cancer. This paper systematically reviewed the up-to-date information on its chemical composition, pharmacology, and clinical application. A range of chemical compounds, mainly ginsenosides and bile acids, have been identified and quantified from PTH. Pharmacological studies indicated that PTH has beneficial effects against various cancers, hepatopathy, and ischemic stroke. Furthermore, PTH has been used clinically to treat various diseases in China, such as colorectal cancer, liver cancer, and hepatitis. In summary, PTH is a potential agent with extensive therapeutic effects for the treatment of various diseases. However, the lack of information on the side effects and toxicity of PTH is a non-negligible issue, which needs to be seriously studied in the future.

Fushiming Capsule Attenuates Diabetic Rat Retina Damage via Antioxidation and Anti-Inflammation

AIMS

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains one of the leading causes of acquired blindness. Fushiming capsule (FSM), a compound traditional Chinese medicine, is clinically used for DR treatment in China. The present study was to investigate the effect of FSM on retinal alterations, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress triggered by diabetes.

MAIN METHODS

Diabetic rat model was induced by 6-week high-fat and high-sugar diet combined with 35 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ). 30 days after successful establishment of diabetic rat model, full field electroretinography (ffERG) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed to detect retinal pathological alterations. Then, FSM was administered to diabetic rats at different dosages for 42-day treatment and diabetic rats treated with Calcium dobesilate (CaD) capsule served as the positive group. Retinal function and structure were observed, and retinal vascular endothelial growth factor-α (VEGF-α), glial fibrillary acidic (GFAP), and vascular cell adhesion protein-1 (VCAM-1) expressions were measured both on mRNA and protein levels, and a series of blood metabolic indicators were also assessed.

KEY FINDINGS

In DR rats, FSM (1.0 g/kg and 0.5 g/kg) treatment significantly restored retinal function (a higher amplitude of b-wave in dark-adaptation 3.0 and OPs2 wave) and prevented the decrease of retinal thickness including inner nuclear layer (INL), outer nuclear layer (ONL), and entire retina. Additionally, FSM dramatically decreased VEGF-α, GFAP, and VCAM-1 expressions in retinal tissues. Moreover, FSM notably improved serum antioxidative enzymes glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities, whereas it reduced serum advanced glycation end products, methane dicarboxylic aldehyde, nitric oxide, and total cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

SIGNIFICANCE

FSM could ameliorate diabetic rat retina damage possibly via inhibiting inflammation and improving antioxidation.

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium L.) as a Source of Bioactive Phytochemicals with Pro-Health Properties

Panax quinquefolium L. (American Ginseng, AG) is an herb characteristic for regions of North America and Asia. Due to its beneficial properties it has been extensively investigated for decades. Nowadays, it is one of the most commonly applied medical herbs worldwide. Active compounds of AG are ginsenosides, saponins of the glycosides group that are abundant in roots, leaves, stem, and fruits of the plant. Ginsenosides are suggested to be primarily responsible for health-beneficial effects of AG. AG acts on the nervous system; it was reported to improve the cognitive function in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, display anxiolytic activity, and neuroprotective effects against neuronal damage resulting from ischemic stroke in animals, demonstrate anxiolytic activity, and induce neuroprotective effects against neuronal damage in ischemic stroke in animals. Administration of AG leads to inhibition of hypertrophy in heart failure by regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mice as well as depletion of cardiac contractile function in rats. It also has an anti-diabetic and anti-obesity potential as it increases insulin sensitivity and inhibits formation of adipose tissue. AG displays anti-cancer effect by induction of apoptosis of cancer cells and reducing local inflammation. It exerts antimicrobial effects against several pathogenic strains of bacteria. Therefore, AG presents a high potential to induce beneficial health effects in humans and should be further explored to formulate precise nutritional recommendations, as well as to assess its value in prevention and therapy of some disorders, including cancer.

Fabrication and evaluation a transferrin receptor targeting nano-drug carrier for cerebral infarction treatment

After cerebral infarction, the regeneration of microvascular played an important role in the recovery. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) had good effects on promoting angiogenesis and neuro-protection in cerebral infarction treatment. However, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) restricted Rg1 to enter into cerebral tissue. Transferrin receptor (TfR) was over-expressed in the BBB. In this study, we fabricated a TfR targeting nano-carrier (PATRC) to penetrate the BBB for treatment of cerebral infarction. A TfR targeted peptide was conjugated with the nano-carrier wrapped hydrophobic Rg1. The nanoscale size (132 ± 12 nm), polydispersity index (PDI =0.29) and the zeta potential (-38mv) were tested with dynamic light scattering optical system. Surface morphology (ellipse, mean diameter 122 ± 26 nm) was detected by transmission electron microscope (TEM). PATRC implement cell targeting ability on rat brain microvascular endothelial cells RBE4 in vitro detected by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry methods. Comparing with Rg1 threated group, the PATRC exhibited more prominent ability on the tube formation ability (p < .05) in vitro. Comparing with the Rg1 treated group, PATRC penetrated BBB in vivo detected by HPLC, decreased the brain infarction volume tested with TTC staining and promoted regeneration of microvascular in infarction zone detected by CD31 immunofluorescence. PATRC has great potentiality for wide application in clinic.

Effects of Red Ginseng on Neural Injuries with Reference to the Molecular Mechanisms

Red ginseng, as an effective herbal medicine, has been traditionally and empirically used for the treatment of neuronal diseases. Many studies suggest that red ginseng and its ingredients protect the brain and spinal cord from neural injuries such as ischemia, trauma, and neurodegeneration. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of red ginseng and its ingredients. Ginsenoside Rb1 and other ginsenosides are regarded as the active ingredients of red ginseng; the anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative actions of ginsenosides, together with a series of bioactive molecules relevant to the above actions, appear to account for the neuroprotective effects in vivo and/or in vitro. Moreover, in this review, the possibility is raised that more effective or stable neuroprotective derivatives based on the chemical structures of ginsenosides could be developed. Although further studies, including clinical trials, are necessary to confirm the pharmacological properties of red ginseng and its ingredients, red ginseng and its ingredients could be promising candidate drugs for the treatment of neural injuries.

Ginsenoside Rb1 attenuates diabetic retinopathy in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats1

PURPOSE

To investigated the effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on diabetic retinopathy in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (80 mg/kg) in male Wistar rats. Ginsenoside Rb1 (20, 40 mg/kg) was injected (i.p.) once a day for 4 weeks. Then, using fundus photography, the diameter and vascular permeability of retinal vessels were investigated. Retinal histopathology was undertaken. Contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) in retinas were assayed. Levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), glutathione cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), and glutathione cysteine ligase modulatory subunit (GCLM) were measured.

RESULTS

Treatment with ginsenoside Rb1 attenuated the diabetes-induced increase in the diameter of retinal blood vessels. Ginsenoside Rb1 reduced extravasation of Evans Blue dye from retinal blood vessels. Ginsenoside Rb1 partially inhibited the increase in MDA content and decrease in GSH level in rat retinas. Nrf2 levels in the nuclei of retinal cells and expression of GCLC and GCLM were increased significantly in rats treated with ginsenoside Rb1.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that ginsenoside Rb1 can attenuate diabetic retinopathy by regulating the antioxidative function in rat retinas.

Ginsenoside Rb1 protects dopaminergic neurons from inflammatory injury induced by intranigral lipopolysaccharide injection

Accumulating studies suggest that neuroinflammation characterized by microglial overactivation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease. As such, inhibition of microglial overactivation might be a promising treatment strategy to delay the onset or slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Ginsenoside Rb1, the most active ingredient of ginseng, reportedly exerts neuroprotective effects by suppressing inflammation in vitro. The present study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of ginsenoside Rb1 in a lipopolysaccharide-induced rat Parkinson’s disease model. Rats were divided into four groups. In the control group, sham-operated rats were intraperitoneally administered normal saline for 14 consecutive days. In the ginsenoside Rb1 group, ginsenoside Rb1 (20 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected for 14 consecutive days after sham surgery. In the lipopolysaccharide group, a single dose of lipopolysaccharide was unilaterally microinjected into the rat substantial nigra to establish the Parkinson’s disease model. Lipopolysaccharide-injected rats were treated with normal saline for 14 consecutive days. In the ginsenoside Rb1 + lipopolysaccharide group, lipopolysaccharide was unilaterally microinjected into the rat substantial nigra. Subsequently, ginsenoside Rb1 was intraperitoneally injected for 14 consecutive days. To investigate the therapeutic effects of ginsenoside Rb1, behavioral tests were performed on day 15 after lipopolysaccharide injection. We found that ginsenoside Rb1 treatment remarkably reduced apomorphine-induced rotations in lipopolysaccharide-treated rats compared with the lipopolysaccharide group. To investigate the neurotoxicity of lipopolysaccharide and potential protective effect of ginsenoside Rb1, contents of dopamine and its metabolites in the striatum were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Compared with the lipopolysaccharide group, ginsenoside Rb1 obviously attenuated the lipopolysaccharide-induced depletion of dopamine and its metabolites in the striatum. To further explore the neuroprotective effect of ginsenoside Rb1 against lipopolysaccharide-induced neurotoxicity, immunohistochemistry and western blot assay of tyrosine hydroxylase were performed to evaluate dopaminergic neuron degeneration in the substantial nigra par compacta. The results showed that lipopolysaccharide injection caused a large loss of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive neurons in the substantia nigra and a significant decrease in overall tyrosine hydroxylase expression. However, ginsenoside Rb1 noticeably reversed these changes. To investigate whether the neuroprotective effect of ginsenoside Rb1 was associated with inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced microglial activation, we examined expression of the microglia marker Iba-1. Our results confirmed that lipopolysaccharide injection induced a significant increase in Iba-1 expression in the substantia nigra; however, ginsenoside Rb1 effectively suppressed lipopolysaccharide-induced microglial overactivation. To elucidate the inhibitory mechanism of ginsenoside Rb1, we examined expression levels of inflammatory mediators (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase 2) and phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B signaling-related proteins (IκB, IKK) in the substantia nigra with enzyme-linked immunosorbent and western blot assays. Our results revealed that compared with the control group, phosphorylation and expression of inflammatory mediators IκB and IKK in the substantia nigra of lipopolysaccharide group rats were significantly increased; whereas, ginsenoside Rb1 obviously reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced changes on the lesioned side of the substantial nigra par compacta. These findings confirm that ginsenoside Rb1 can inhibit inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide injection into the substantia nigra and protect dopaminergic neurons, which may be related to its inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway. This study was approved by the Experimental Animal Ethics Committee of Shandong University of China in April 2016 (approval No. KYLL-2016-0148).

Ginsenoside Rb1 and mitochondria: A short review of the literature

Mitochondria play a central role in various critical cellular processes, including energy synthesis, energy supply and apoptosis. Panax notoginseng, a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine, has various pharmacological effects on the human body. Ginsenosides are representative bioactive components of P. notoginseng. Recently, more attention has focused on ginsenoside Rb1 as an antioxidative and anti-inflammatory agent that can protect the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Numerous studies have shown that Rb1 exerts these effects by regulating mitochondrial energy metabolism, mitochondrial fission and fusion, apoptosis, oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species release, mitophagy and mitochondrial membrane potential. Thus, the mitochondria are pivotal targets of Rb1. This review summarized the available reports of the effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on the regulation of mitochondria and showed that it has a promising role in treating mitochondrial diseases.