Comparative Study of White and Steamed Black Panax ginseng, P. quinquefolium, and P. notoginseng on Cholinesterase Inhibitory and Antioxidative Activity

Protective effects of black ginseng on testicular toxicity induced by Di-n-butyl phthalate in rats

Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) is a phthalate-based material used as a plasticizer to soften polyvinyl chloride, and classified as an endocrine disruptor with antiandrogen effects. Exposure to DBP induces oxidative stress in rat testes, resulting in testicular toxicity. Black ginseng (BG) exhibits a higher antioxidant activity than white or red ginseng following repeated heat treatment and processing. This study aimed to investigate whether the antioxidant activity of BG might protect against DBP-induced testicular toxicity in juvenile Sprague-Dawley rats. A significant decrease in testicular weight was observed in most groups treated with DBP alone or in combination with BG. However, a significant testicular weight increase was detected after exposure to BG (10 ml/kg) + DBP (500 mg/kg). The epididymal weight was significantly reduced with associated histological changes including irregular arrangement, atrophy of seminiferous tubules and Sertoli cells, and Leydig cell damage following exposure to DBP alone as well as BG (2.5 ml/kg) + DBP (500 mg/kg). However, no marked changes were observed in the shape of seminiferous tubules in control and BG + DBP groups. A significant decrease in serum testosterone levels was found after exposure to DBP, but no marked alterations in the BG + DBP groups. Protein expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor (Nrf2), NAD(P)H dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1), and, heme oxygenase-1; (HO-1) were significantly higher following DBP treatment, but lowered in the BG + DBP groups. Evidence indicates that BG exerts a protective effect against DBP-induced testicular toxicity in rats.

Dammarane-Type Saponins from the Leaves of Vietnamese Ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha & Grushv.) and Their Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition In Vitro and In Silico

Vietnamese ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha & Grushv.) represents one of the famous Panax spp. for valuable applications in both traditional and modern medicine; in which, its rhizome part has mainly been used as the medicinal materials based on the bioactive ginsenosides such as ginsenoside Rb1, ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Rd, and majonoside R2. In modern medicine, the development of medicinal materials and utilization of medicinal plants are crucially based on standard bioactive ingredients, so this study to evaluate the leaves of Vietnamese ginseng as source of bioactive ginsenoside led to the identification of seven ginsenosides (1-7). Of them, ginsenoside Rd (2) and pseudoginsenoside RS1 (5) showed inhibitory effects on acetylcholinesterase in vitro with the IC50 values of 47.13 and 79.58 μM and supported by molecular docking analysis, in which ginsenoside Rd (2) and pseudoginsenoside RS1 (5) could play as allosteric inhibitors with high binding affinity (-8.5 and -9.4 kcal/mol) as evidenced by hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. The findings provided the scientific evidence for using the leaves of Vietnamese ginseng as an alternative source to the roots to enhance memory in traditional medicine as well as for further research on the anti-dementia effects of 2 and 5.

Enhanced Minor Ginsenoside Contents of Nano-Sized Black Korean Ginseng through Hot Melt Extrusion

Black ginseng (BG), a traditional medicinal herb produced through a nine-stage steaming and drying process, exhibits stronger pharmacological efficacy, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties, when compared to white and red ginseng. The ginsenosides in BG are classified as major and minor types, with minor ginsenosides demonstrating superior pharmacological properties. However, their low concentrations limit their availability for research and clinical applications. In this study, hot melt extrusion (HME) was utilized as an additional processing technique to enhance the content of minor ginsenoside in BG, and the physicochemical properties of the formulation were analyzed. Ginsenoside content in BG and HME-treated BG (HME-BG) was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), while their physicochemical properties were evaluated through dynamic light scattering (DLS), electrophoretic light scattering (ELS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). HME treatment resulted in a significant increase in minor ginsenosides Rg3 and compound K (CK) by 330% and 450%, respectively, while major ginsenosides Rg1 and Rb1 decreased or were not detected. Additionally, HME-BG demonstrated reduced particle size, improved PDI, and decreased crystallinity. HME treatment effectively converts major ginsenosides in BG into minor ginsenosides, enhancing its pharmacological efficacy and showing great potential for research and development applications.

Ginsenoside Rg5 as an anticancer drug: a comprehensive review on mechanisms, structure-activity relationship, and prospects for clinical advancement

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the world. Despite the considerable success of conventional treatment strategies, the incidence and mortality rates are still high, making developing new effective anticancer therapies an urgent priority. Ginsenoside Rg5 (Rg5) is a minor ginsenoside constituent obtained exclusively from ginseng species and is known for its broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. This article aimed to comprehensively review the anticancer properties of Rg5, focusing on action mechanisms, structure-activity relationship (SAR), and pharmacokinetics attributes. The in vitro and in vivo activities of Rg5 have been proven against several cancer types, such as breast, liver, lung, bone, and gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. The modulation of multiple signaling pathways critical for cancer growth and survival mediates these activities. Nevertheless, human clinical studies of Rg5 have not been addressed before, and there is still considerable ambiguity regarding its pharmacokinetics properties. In addition, a significant shortage in the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of Rg5 has been identified. Therefore, future efforts should focus on further optimization by performing extensive SAR studies to uncover the structural features essential for the potent anticancer activity of Rg5. Thus, this review highlights the value of Rg5 as a potential anticancer drug candidate and identifies the research areas requiring more investigation.

Chemical Profiling, Quantitation, and Bioactivities of Ginseng Residue

Ginseng residue is a by-product stemming from the commercial extraction of ginsenosides. To assess the disparities between ginseng residue and ginseng tablet, we employed the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight/mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) technique for sample analysis. The analyses revealed the presence of 39 compounds in both ginseng residue and ginseng tablets. Subsequently, the contents of total ginsenosides and total ginseng polysaccharides in the ginseng residue and ginseng tablet were determined. The results indicate that while only a small fraction of ginsenosides remained in the ginseng residue, a significant amount of polysaccharides was retained. Furthermore, our evaluation encompassed the antioxidant activities of both ginseng residue and ginseng tablets. Notably, ginseng residue exhibited robust antioxidant effects, thereby showcasing its potential for recycling as a functional food raw material.

Chemical Differentiation and Quantitative Analysis of Black Ginseng Based on an LC-MS Combined with Multivariate Statistical Analysis Approach

Black ginseng is a new type of processed ginseng that is traditionally used in herbal medicine in East Asian countries. It is prepared from fresh, white, or red ginseng by undergoing a process of steaming and drying several times. However, the chemical differentiation of black ginseng with different processing levels is not well understood. The aim of this study was to propose a new method for discriminating and quantifying black ginseng. Six ginsenosides from black ginseng were accurately quantified, and based on this, the black ginseng samples were divided into incomplete and complete black ginseng. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight/mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) combined with a multivariate statistical analysis strategy was then employed to differentiate the two groups. A total of 141 ions were selected as analytical markers of black ginseng, with 45 of these markers being annotated by matching precise m/z and MS/MS data from prior studies.

Heat Treatment Enhances the Neuroprotective Effects of Crude Ginseng Saponin by Increasing Minor Ginsenosides

Ginsenoside is the primary active substance of ginseng and has many pharmacological effects, such as anti-cancer, immune, regulating sugar and lipid metabolism, and antioxidant effects. It also protects the nervous and cardiovascular systems. This study analyzes the effects of thermal processing on the bioactivities of crude ginseng saponin. Heat treatment increased the contents of minor ginsenosides in crude saponins, such as Rg3, and heat-treated crude ginseng saponin (HGS) had better neuroprotective effects than non-treated crude saponin (NGS). HGS reduced glutamate-induced apoptosis and reactive oxygen species generation in pheochromocytoma 12 (PC12) cells, significantly more than NGS. HGS protected PC12 cells against glutamate-induced oxidative stress by upregulating Nrf2-mediated antioxidant signaling and downregulating MAPK-mediated apoptotic signaling. HGS has the potential for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

Neuroprotective role of medicinal plant extracts evaluated in a scopolamine-induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease

BackgroundAlzheimer's disease is a debilitating neurological brain disease with memory impairment among the first signs. Scopolamine (SCO), a muscarinic receptor antagonist that disrupts cognition and memory acquisition, is considered a psychopharmacological AD model. We investigate the effectiveness of medicinal plants in mitigating the SCO-induced neurobehavioural damage in rats.Materials and MethodsAnimals were injected with Scopolamine hydrobromide trihydrate (2.2 mg/kg IP.) daily for 2 months. Each treatment group was administered one of four medicinal spice extracts (Nigella sativa, 400 mg/kg; rosemary, 200 mg/kg; sage, 600 mg/kg and ginseng;200 mg/kg 90 minutes after SCO injection. Animals were subjected to cognitive-behavioral tests (NOR, Y-maze, and MWM). After the experiment, we extracted the brains for histopathological examination and biochemical assessment for oxidative stress (levels of TT, CAT and TBARS) and gene expression of acetylcholinesterase and brain monoamines.ResultsAs expected, SCO treatment impaired memory and cognition, increased oxidative stress, decreased neurotransmitters, and caused severe neurodegenerative changes in the brain.ConclusionSurprisingly, these effects were measurably moderated by the administration of all four plant extracts, indicating a neuroprotective action that we suggest could alleviate AD disease manifestations.

Transformation Mechanism of Rare Ginsenosides in American Ginseng by Different Processing Methods and Antitumour Effects

The mechanism by which ginsenosides from Panax quinquefolium L. transform into rare saponins by different processing methods and their antitumour effects have yet to be fully elucidated. Our study aimed to detect the effect of amino acids and processing methods on the conversion of ginsenosides in American ginseng to rare ginsenosides, using 8 monomeric ginsenosides as substrates to discuss the reaction pathway and mechanism. S180 tumour-bearing mice were established to study the antitumour effects of American ginseng total saponins (AGS-Q) or American ginseng total saponins after transformation (AGS-H) synergistic CTX. The results showed that aspartic acid was the best catalyst, and the thermal extraction method had the best effect. Under the optimal conditions, including a reaction temperature of 110°C, an aspartic acid concentration of 5%, a reaction time of 2.5 h and a liquid-solid ratio of 30 mL/g, the highest conversion of Rk₁ and Rg₅ was 6.58 ± 0.11 mg/g and 3.74 ± 0.05 mg/g, respectively. In the reaction pathway, the diol group saponins participated in the transformation process, and the triol group saponins basically did not participate in the transformation process. AGS-Q or AGS-H synergistic CTX, or AGS-H synergistic CTX/2 could significantly increase the tumour inhibition rate, spleen index and white blood cell count, had a significant upregulation effect on IL-2 and IL-10 immune cytokines; significantly restored the ratio of CD4⁺/CD8⁺; and significantly inhibited the level of CD4⁺CD25⁺. AGS-Q or AGS-H synergistic with CTX or CTX/2 can significantly upregulate the expression of Bax and cleaved-Caspase-3 and inhibit the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2. AGS synergistic CTX in the treatment of S180 tumour-bearing mice can improve the efficacy and reduce toxicity.

Qizhen capsule inhibits colorectal cancer by inducing NAG-1/GDF15 expression that mediated via MAPK/ERK activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qizhen capsule (QZC) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparation that has been widely used in clinical practice and exerts promising therapeutic effects against breast, lung, and gastric cancers. However, studies have not reported whether QZC inhibits colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. Meanwhile, the underlying molecular mechanisms of its anticancer activity have not been studied.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the anticancer effects of QZC on CRC and the possible underlying molecular mechanisms of QZC in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to determine the viability and apoptosis of HCT116 and HT-29 cancer cells. A xenograft nude mouse model was used to study the antitumor effects of QZC in vivo. Western blotting was performed to determine the expression of key proteins responsible for the molecular mechanisms elicited by QZC. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect the expression of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-activated gene-1 or growth differentiation factor-15 (NAG-1/GDF15). Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were used to silence NAG-1/GDF15 in cells.

RESULTS

In this study, QZC significantly reduced the viability of HCT116 and HT-29 cells and induced apoptosis in dose- and time-dependent manners, but displayed much less toxicity toward normal cells. QZC-induced apoptosis in HCT116 cells was accompanied by the deregulation of the expression of the Bcl-2, Bax, PARP, caspase-3, and caspase-9 proteins. Furthermore, QZC induced NAG-1/GDF15 expression in HCT116 cells, while silencing of NAG-1/GDF15 attenuated QZC-induced apoptosis and cell death. Next, QZC increased the phosphorylation of mTOR, AMPK, p38, and MAPK/ERK in HCT116 cells. We then demonstrated that QZC-induced apoptosis and NAG-1/GDF15 upregulation were mediated by MAPK/ERK activation. Moreover, QZC significantly inhibited HCT116 xenograft tumor growth in nude mice, which was accompanied by NAG/GDF15 upregulation and MAPK/ERK activation. QZC also prevented 5-FU-induced weight loss or cachexia in tumor-bearing mice. The expression of Ki67 and PCNA was suppressed, while cleaved caspase-3 level and TUNEL staining were increased in the tumor sections from QZC-treated mice compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

QZC is a novel anticancer agent for CRC that targets NAG-1/GDF15 via the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway.

Inhibition of Autophagy Prevents Panax Notoginseng Saponins (PNS) Protection on Cardiac Myocytes Against Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Stress-Induced Mitochondrial Injury, Ca2+ Homeostasis and Associated Apoptosis

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is often closely linked to autophagy, hypoxia signaling, mitochondrial biogenesis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) responses. Understanding the interaction between ER stress, mitochondrial function and autophagy is of great importance to provide new mechanisms for the pathology, prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Our previous study has reported that Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) protection against thapsigargin (TG)-induced ER stress response and associated cell apoptosis in cardiac myocytes is calcium dependent and mediated by ER Ca²⁺ release through RyR₂. However, whether its protection upon ER stress and associated apoptosis is related to mitochondrial function and autophagy remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated the roles of PNS played in TG-induced mitochondrial function, ROS accumulation and autophagy. We also assessed its effects on Ca²⁺ homeostasis, ER stress response and associated cell death in the presence of autophagy inhibition. PNS-pretreated primary cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were stimulated with TG to induce ER stress response. Mitochondrial potential (Δψm) was measured by JC-1. The general and mitochondrial ROS were measured by DCFH-DA and MitoSOX Red, respectively. Autophagy was evaluated by immunofluorescence of LC3, and immunoblots of LC3, p62, ATG7 and PINK1. In addition, mRFP-GFP-LC3 labeling was used to assess the autophagic influx. SiATG7 transfected H9c2 cells were generated to inhibit autophagy. Cytosolic and ER Ca²⁺ dynamics were investigated by calcium imaging. RyR₂ oxidation was tested by oxyblot. Cell viability was examined by TUNEL assay. ER stress response and cell apoptosis were detected by immunoblots of BiP, CHOP, Cleaved Caspase-3 and Caspase-12. The results demonstrated that firstly, PNS protects against TG-induced mitochondrial injury and ROS accumulation. Secondly, PNS enhances autophagy in TG-induced cardiac myocytes. Thirdly, inhibition of autophagy diminishes PNS prevention of TG-induced mitochondrial injury, ROS accumulation and disruption of Ca²⁺ homeostasis. Last but not least, inhibition of autophagy abolishes PNS protection against TG-induced ER stress response and associated apoptosis. In summary, PNS protection against ER stress response and associated apoptosis is related to the regulation of mitochondrial injury and ROS overproduction via modulation of autophagy. These data provide new insights for molecular mechanisms of PNS as a potential preventive approach to the management of cardiovascular diseases.

Evaluation of Metabolite Profiles of Ginseng Berry Pomace Obtained after Different Pressure Treatments and Their Correlation with the Antioxidant Activity

Ginseng berry pomace (GBP) is a byproduct of ginseng berry processing and is rich in numerous bioactive components, including ginsenosides and their derivatives. The application of GBP as a beneficial biomaterial is currently limited. In this study, we aimed to evaluate their potential as a promising source of bioactive compounds using metabolite profiling. The GBP obtained after different ultra-high-pressure (UHP) treatments was analyzed by GC-TOF-MS and UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS/MS. In multivariate analyses, we observed a clear demarcation between the control and UHP-treated groups. The results demonstrated that the relative abundance of primary metabolites and a few ginsenosides was higher in the control, whereas UHP treatment contained higher levels of fatty acids and sugars. Furthermore, GBPs were fractionated using different solvents, followed by UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS/MS analyses. The heatmap revealed that phenolics (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol) and fewer polar ginsenosides (e.g., F4, Rh2) were abundant in the ethyl acetate fraction, whereas the levels of lignans (e.g., 7-hydroxysecoisolariciresinol, syringaresinol) and fatty acids (e.g., trihydroxy-octadecenoic acid, oxo-dihydroxy-octadecenoic acid) were high in chloroform. Correlation analysis showed that phenolics, less polar ginsenosides, and fatty acids were positively correlated with the antioxidant activity of GBP. Our study highlights GBP as a functional ingredient for the development of high-quality ginseng berry products.

Research Quality-Based Multivariate Modeling for Comparison of the Pharmacological Effects of Black and Red Ginseng

Black ginseng has various pharmacological activities, but only few studies have compared its pharmacological effects with those of red ginseng. We conducted an integrative systematic literature evaluation and developed a non-inferiority test based on the multivariate modeling approach to compare the pharmacological effects of red ginseng and black ginseng. We searched reported studies on the pharmaceutical effects and composition of ginsenosides and assigned numeric scores using nonlinear principal component analysis, based on discretization measures for the included publications. Downstream weighted linear regression models were constructed to study the eight major biological activities that are generally known to be exhibited by red ginseng. Our statistical model, based on available ordinal information gathered from previous literature, helped in comparing the overlapping effects of black ginseng. Black ginseng showed antioxidant effects comparable to those of red ginseng; however, this variant was inferior to red ginseng in enhancing immunity, relieving fatigue, alleviating depression/anxiety, decreasing body fat, and reducing blood pressure. We have showed a cost-efficient method to indirectly evaluate the biological effects of ginseng products using data from published articles. This method can also be used to compare the nutritional and medicinal value of herbal medicines that share similar compositions of bioactive compounds.

Changes of Ginsenoside Composition in the Creation of Black Ginseng Leaf

Ginseng is an increasingly popular ingredient in supplements for healthcare products and traditional medicine. Heat-processed ginsengs, such as red ginseng or black ginseng, are regarded as more valuable for medicinal use when compared to white ginseng due to some unique less polar ginsenosides that are produced during heat-treatment. Although ginseng leaf contains abundant ginsenosides, attention has mostly focused on ginseng root; relatively few publications have focused on ginseng leaf. Raw ginseng leaf was steamed nine times to make black ginseng leaf using a process that is similar to that used to produce black ginseng root. Sixteen ginsenosides were analyzed during each steaming while using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The contents of ginsenosides Rd and Re decreased and the less polar ginsenosides (F2, Rg3, Rk2, Rk3, Rh3, Rh4, and protopanaxatriol) enriched during steam treatment. After nine cycles of steaming, the contents of the less polar ginsenosides F2, Rg3, and Rk2 increased by 12.9-fold, 8.6-fold, and 2.6-fold, respectively. Further, we found that the polar protopanaxadiol (PPD) -type ginsenosides are more likely to be converted from ginsenoside Rg3 to ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 via dehydration from Rg3, and from ginsenoside Rh2 to ginsenosides Rk2 and Rh3 through losing an H₂O molecule than to be completely degraded to the aglycones PPD during the heat process. This study suggests that ginseng leaves can be used to produce less polar ginsenosides through heat processes, such as steaming.

Ginsenoside Rg3 inhibits grass carp reovirus replication in grass carp ovarian epithelial cells

Ginseng exhibits multiple medicinal properties, including the improvement of immune function and enhancing disease resistance. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of ginsenoside Rg3 on grass carp reovirus (GCRV) infection of grass carp ovarian (CO) epithelial cells, in order to provide a baseline framework for future high-efficacy antiviral drug screening investigations. Ginsenoside Rg3 was added to GCRV-infected CO cells, and cells were cultured at 27 °C before cell proliferation was measured by MTT assays. Label-free real-time cellular analysis (RTCA) after 72 h of experimentation demonstrated that 100 μg/mL ginsenoside Rg3 treatment had the highest inhibitory effect on GCRV (among 1,10,100 μg/mL treatments). We then measured the capacity for cellular antioxidant ability. Cells treated with 1,10,100 μg/mL ginsenoside Rg3 exhibited increases in Total Antioxidant Capacity activity relative to controls, respectively. Furthermore, Antioxidant assay and reverse transcript quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) showed that ginsenoside Rg3 were efficient to restrain the replication of GCRV in CO cells. Expression analysis of immune-related genes via RT-qPCR showed that treatment with ginsenoside Rg3 promoted expression of IRF-3 and IRF-7 increases, respectively. Moreover, expression of IFN-1 was induced, which then inhibition the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). In conclusion, we demonstrated that ginsenoside Rg3 promotes CO cell proliferation, inhibits GCRV activity, promotes CO cell immune activities, and thereby enhances the resistance of CO to GCRV infection.

Stem-leaves of Panax as a rich and sustainable source of less-polar ginsenosides: comparison of ginsenosides from Panax ginseng, American ginseng and Panax notoginseng prepared by heating and acid treatment

Background

Ginsenosides, which have strong biological activities, can be divided into polar or less-polar ginsenosides.

Methods

This study evaluated the phytochemical diversity of the saponins in Panax ginseng (PG) root, American ginseng (AG) root, and Panax notoginseng (NG) root; the stem-leaves from Panax ginseng (SPG) root, American ginseng (SAG) root, and Panax notoginseng (SNG) root as well as the saponins obtained following heating and acidification [transformed Panax ginseng (TPG), transformed American ginseng (TAG), transformed Panax notoginseng (TNG), transformed stem-leaves from Panax ginseng (TSPG), transformed stem-leaves from American ginseng (TSAG), and transformed stem-leaves from Panax notoginseng (TSNG)]. The diversity was determined through the simultaneous quantification of the 16 major ginsenosides.

Results

The content of ginsenosides in NG was found to be higher than those in AG and PG, and the content in SPG was greater than those in SNG and SAG. After transformation, the contents of polar ginsenosides in the raw saponins decreased, and contents of less-polar compounds increased. TNG had the highest levels of ginsenosides, which is consistent with the transformation of ginseng root. The contents of saponins in the stem-leaves were higher than those in the roots. The transformation rate of SNG was higher than those of the other samples, and the loss ratios of total ginsenosides from NG (6%) and SNG (4%) were the lowest among the tested materials. In addition to the conversion temperature, time, and pH, the crude protein content also affects the conversion to rare saponins. The proteins in Panax notoginseng allowed the highest conversion rate.

Conclusion

Thus, the industrial preparation of less-polar ginsenosides from SNG is more efficient and cheaper.

Panax notoginseng saponins promote liver regeneration through activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR cell proliferation pathway and upregulation of the AKT/Bad cell survival pathway in mice

Backgroud

The regenerative capacity of the liver is crucial for the host to survive after serious hepatic injuries, tumor resection, or living donor liver transplantation. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) have been reported to exert protective effects during organ injuries. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of PNS on liver regeneration(LR) and on injuries induced by partial hepatectomy (PH).

Methods

We performed 70% partial PH on C57BL/6 J mice treated with or without PNS. LR was estimated by liver weight/body weight, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels and cell proliferation, and the related cellular signals were analyzed by Western blot.

Results

Different concentrations of PNS promoted hepatocyte proliferation in vitro. Mice in the PNS group showed higher liver/body weight ratios at 2 d and 7 d (P < 0.05) after PH and lower levels of serum ALT and AST (P < 0.05) compared to those of mice in the normal control (NC) group. Histological analysis showed that the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen(PCNA) at 2 d and 7 d after PH was significantly higher in the PNS group than in the NC group (P < 0.05). Mechanistically, the AKT/mTOR cell proliferation pathway and AKT/Bad cell survival pathway were activated by PNS, which accelerated hepatocyte proliferation and inhibited apoptosis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

PNS promoted liver regeneration through activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and upregulated the AKT/Bad cell pathways in mice.

Black Ginseng and Its Saponins: Preparation, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Effects

Black ginseng is a type of processed ginseng that is prepared from white or red ginseng by steaming and drying several times. This process causes extensive changes in types and amounts of secondary metabolites. The chief secondary metabolites in ginseng are ginsenosides (dammarane-type triterpene saponins), which transform into less polar ginsenosides in black ginseng by steaming. In addition, apparent changes happen to other secondary metabolites such as the increase in the contents of phenolic compounds, reducing sugars and acidic polysaccharides in addition to the decrease in concentrations of free amino acids and total polysaccharides. Furthermore, the presence of some Maillard reaction products like maltol was also engaged. These obvious chemical changes were associated with a noticeable superiority for black ginseng over white and red ginseng in most of the comparative biological studies. This review article is an attempt to illustrate different methods of preparation of black ginseng, major chemical changes of saponins and other constituents after steaming as well as the reported biological activities of black ginseng, its major saponins and other metabolites.

Remarkable impact of amino acids on ginsenoside transformation from fresh ginseng to red ginseng

Background

Amino acids are one of the major constituents in Panax ginseng, including neutral amino acid, acidic amino acid, and basic amino acid. However, whether these amino acids play a role in ginsenoside conversion during the steaming process has not yet been elucidated.

Methods

In the present study, to elucidate the role of amino acids in ginsenoside transformation from fresh ginseng to red ginseng, an amino acids impregnation pretreatment was applied during the steaming process at 120°C. Acidic glutamic acid and basic arginine were used for the acid impregnation treatment during the root steaming. The ginsenosides contents, pH, browning intensity, and free amino acids contents in untreated and amino acid–treated P. ginseng samples were determined.

Results

After 2 h of steaming, the concentration of less polar ginsenosides in glutamic acid–treated P. ginseng was significantly higher than that in untreated P. ginseng during the steaming process. However, the less polar ginsenosides in arginine-treated P. ginseng increased slightly. Meanwhile, free amino acids contents in fresh P. ginseng, glutamic acid-treated P. ginseng, and arginine-treated P. ginseng significantly decreased during steaming from 0 to 2h. The pH also decreased in P. ginseng samples at high temperatures. The pH decrease in red ginseng was closely related to the decrease in basic amino acids levels during the steaming process.

Conclusion

Amino acids can remarkably affect the acidity of P. ginseng sample by altering the pH value. They were the main influential factors for the ginsenoside transformation. These results are useful in elucidating why and how steaming induces the structural change of ginsenoside in P. ginseng and also provides an effective and green approach to regulate the ginsenoside conversion using amino acids during the steaming process.

Ginsenoside Rb1 exerts neuroprotective effects through regulation of Lactobacillus helveticus abundance and GABAA receptor expression

Background

Ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1), one of the most abundant protopanaxadiol-type ginsenosides, exerts excellent neuroprotective effects even though it has low intracephalic exposure.

Purpose

The present study aimed to elucidate the apparent contradiction between the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Rb1 by studying the mechanisms underlying neuroprotective effects of Rb1 based on regulation of microflora.

Methods

A pseudo germ-free (PGF) rat model was established, and neuroprotective effects of Rb1 were compared between conventional and PGF rats. The relative abundances of common probiotics were quantified to reveal the authentic probiotics that dominate in the neuroprotection of Rb1. The expressions of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, including GABAA receptors (α2, β2, and γ2) and GABAB receptors (1b and 2), in the normal, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), and I/R+Rb1 rat hippocampus and striatum were assessed to reveal the neuroprotective mechanism of Rb1.

Results

The results showed that microbiota plays a key role in neuroprotection of Rb1. The relative abundance of Lactobacillus helveticus (Lac.H) increased 15.26 fold after pretreatment with Rb1. I/R surgery induced effects on infarct size, neurological deficit score, and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) were prevented by colonizing the rat gastrointestinal tract with Lac.H (1 × 10⁹ CFU) by gavage 15 d before I/R surgery. Both Rb1 and Lac.H upregulated expression of GABA receptors in I/R rats. Coadministration of a GABA_A receptor antagonist significantly attenuated neuroprotective effects of Rb1 and Lac.H.

Conclusion

In sum, Rb1 exerts neuroprotective effects by regulating Lac.H and GABA receptors rather than through direct distribution to the target sites.

The development of a Panax notoginseng medicinal liquor processing technology using the response surface method and a study of its antioxidant activity and its effects on mouse melanoma B16 cells

Panax notoginseng medicinal liquor (PML) has a long history of use in the function of blood circulation. However, the processing of PML is currently dependent on experience, which results in low efficiency and unstable quality of PML. A variety of substances of P. notoginseng have a strong ability to scavenge free radicals and antioxidant activity, but the antioxidant activity of PML has not been formally researched. The aim of the present study was to optimize the processing technology of PML and to verify the anti-oxidation and anti-deposition of melanin functions of PML. Based on the Box-Behnken design of response surface method, the PML processing parameters were established as follows: the ratio of liquid to solid 32 : 1, 53% of alcohol, and soaking time of 35 d. With elevating concentration of PML extract, the reducing force and scavenging rates of DPPH, superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical and ABTS⁺ were increased, and the inhibition rate of tyrosinase activity and the melanin synthesis ability were increased in mice melanoma B16 cells. Thus, the optimal processing technology not only shortened the processing time but also decreased the material costs. PML may be developed as food or beauty products for the functions of anti-oxidation and anti-deposition of melanin.

Evaluation of the gastroprotective effects of 20 (S)-ginsenoside Rg3 on gastric ulcer models in mice

Background

Gastric ulcer (GU) is a common gastrointestinal disease that can be induced by many factors. Finding an effective treatment method that contains fewer side effects is important. 20 (S)-ginsenoside Rg3 is a kind of protopanaxadiol and has shown superior antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects in many studies, especially cancer studies. In this study, we examined the treatment efficacy of 20 (S)-ginsenoside Rg3 on GU.

Methods

Three kinds of GU models, including an alcohol GU model, a pylorus-ligated GU model, and an acetic acid GU model, were used. Mouse endothelin-1 (ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in blood and epidermal growth factor (EGF), superoxide dismutase, and NO levels in gastric mucosa were evaluated. Hematoxylin and eosin staining of gastric mucosa and immunohistochemical staining of ET-1, inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2), and epidermal growth factor receptors were studied. Ulcer index (UI) scores and UI ratios were also analyzed to demonstrate the GU conditions in different groups. Furthermore, Glide XP from Schrödinger was used for molecular docking to clarify the interactions between 20 (S)-ginsenoside Rg3 and EGF and NOS2.

Results

20 (S)-ginsenoside Rg3 significantly decreased the UI scores and UI ratios in all the three GU models, and it demonstrated antiulcer effects by decreasing the ET-1 and NOS2 levels and increasing the NO, superoxide dismutase, EGF, and epidermal growth factor receptor levels. In addition, high-dose 20 (S)-ginsenoside Rg3 showed satisfactory gastric mucosa protection effects.

Conclusion

20 (S)-ginsenoside Rg3 can inhibit the formation of GU and may be a potential therapeutic agent for GU.

Urinary metabolomic study of the antagonistic effect of P. ginseng in rats with estrogen decline using ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

This study investigates the antagonistic effect of Panax ginseng in rats with estrogen decline by its intervention in some major endogenous metabolic pathways.

Panax notoginseng saponins reduce high-risk factors for thrombosis through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor -γ pathway

The classic Virchow theory suggests that blood stasis, hypercoagulability and endothelial dysfunction are three major factors that cause venous thrombosis (VT). It is a complicated biological process involved multi-factors. Platelet plays a central role and participates in multiple links of this process. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS), the principal constituents derived from panax notoginseng, has been widely described for its anti-platelet activity. However, its potential mechanism against platelet aggregation has not been clarified. In this present study, we evaluated the anti-platelet effects of PNS on thrombin-induced platelet activation and its possible molecular mechanism of action, and further explored the therapeutic action of PNS on thrombin induced hypercoagulability in rat. Our results showed that PNS treatment inhibited platelet aggregation induced by thrombin, which was accompanied with over-expression of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) protein, mRNA and upregulation of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI₃K)/ protein kinase B (Akt)/ endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) pathway in platelet, and this effect could be reversed by PPAR-γ inhibitor T0070907. In vivo, PNS significantly reversed thrombin-induced hypercoagulable state in rat which was accompanied by PPAR-γ protein and mRNA upregulation in rat lung. In conclusion, these data suggested that PNS could suppress thrombin-induced platelet aggregation in vitro and effectively improve hypercoagulable state in vivo and PNS-induced activation of PPAR-γ and its downstream PI₃K/Akt/eNOS pathway played the central role.

Multicomponent assessment and ginsenoside conversions of Panax quinquefolium L. roots before and after steaming by HPLC-MSn

Background

The structural conversions in ginsenosides induced by steaming or heating or acidic condition could improve red ginseng bioactivities significantly. In this paper, the chemical transformations of red American ginseng from fresh Panax quinquefolium L. under steaming were investigated, and the possible mechanisms were discussed.

Methods

A method with reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with linear ion trap mass spectrometry (HPLC-MSⁿ)-equipped electrospray ionization ion source was developed for structural analysis and quantitation of ginsenosides in dried and red American ginseng.

Results

In total, 59 ginsenosides of protopanaxadiol, protopanaxatriol, oleanane, and ocotillol types were identified in American ginseng before and after steaming process by matching the molecular weight and/or comparing MSⁿ fragmentation with that of standards and/or known published compounds, and some of them were determined to be disappeared or newly generated under different steaming time and temperature. The specific fragments of each aglycone-type ginsenosides were determined as well as aglycone hydrated and dehydrated ones. The mechanisms were deduced as hydrolysis, hydration, dehydration, and isomerization of neutral and acidic ginsenosides. Furthermore, the relative peak areas of detected compounds were calculated based on peak areas ratio.

Conclusion

The multicomponent assessment of American ginseng was conducted by HPLC-MSⁿ. The result is expected to provide possibility for holistic evaluation of the processing procedures of red American ginseng and a scientific basis for the usage of American ginseng in prescription.

Ginsenoside Rg3 exerts anti-depressive effect on an NMDA-treated cell model and a chronic mild stress animal model

Depression is a common mental disorder and a leading cause of disability. At its most severe, it can lead to suicide. Recently, there has been growing interest in the application of natural herbs for the prevention and treatment of depression. In this report, we found that the ginsenoside active component Rg3 has an apparent antidepressant effect. In N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA)-treated HT22 murine hippocampal neuronal cells, Rg3 recovered proliferation and inhibited apoptosis by altering the cell cycle. More interestingly, Rg3 led to apparent physiological behavior change in a chronic mild stress model as seen in forced swim, tail suspension, and sucrose preference tests. This effect was mediated by the phosphorylation of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. This study provides direct evidence to support the antidepressant effects of ginsenoside Rg3, potentially indicating its application in the treatment of clinical depression.

Ginsenoside Rg5 Ameliorates Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Mice through Inhibition of Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Apoptosis

Although cisplatin is an effective anti-cancer agent that is widely used for treating various types of malignant solid tumors, the nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin severely limits its clinical application. The present study was designed to explore the potential protective effect of ginsenoside Rg5, a rare ginsenoside generated during steaming ginseng, on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in a mouse experimental model. The possible mechanisms underlying this nephroprotective effect were also investigated for the first time. Rg5 was given at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg for 10 consecutive days. On Day 7, a single nephrotoxic dose of cisplatin (25 mg/kg) was injected to mice. Cisplatin administration resulted in renal dysfunction as evidenced by increase in serum creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. In addition, cisplatin increased the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), the makers of lipid peroxidation, and depleted glutathione (GSH) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in renal tissues. These effects were associated with the significantly increased levels of cytochrome P450 E1 (CYP2E1), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in renal tissues. However, pretreatment with ginsenoside Rg5 significantly attenuated the renal dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation response induced by cisplatin. Furthermore, ginsenoside Rg5 supplementation inhibited activation of apoptotic pathways through increasing Bcl-2 and decreasing Bax expression levels. Histopathological examination further confirmed the nephroprotective effect of Rg5. Collectively, these results clearly suggest that Rg5-mediated alleviation of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity may be related to its anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Remarkable Impact of Acidic Ginsenosides and Organic Acids on Ginsenoside Transformation from Fresh Ginseng to Red Ginseng

Panax ginseng contains many chemical components, including acidic ginsenosides and organic acids. However, whether these acidic substances play a role in ginsenoside transformation during steaming treatment has not yet been explored. In this paper, the content of neutral ginsenosides, acidic ginsenosides, and their degradation products in unsteamed and steamed P. ginseng were simultaneously quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography. We observed that neutral ginsenosides were converted to rare ginsenosides during the root steaming but not during the individual ginsenoside steaming. In contrast, acidic malonyl ginsenosides released malonic acid and acetic acid through demalonylation, decarboxylation, deacetylation reactions during the steaming at 120 °C. These malonyl ginsenosides not only were converted to rare ginsenosides but also promoted the degradation of neutral ginsenosides. Further studies indicated that a low concentration of organic acid was the determining factor for the ginsenoside conversion. The related mechanisms were deduced to be mainly acidic hydrolysis and dehydration. In summary, acidic ginsenosides and organic acids remarkably affected ginsenoside transformation during the steaming process. Our results provide useful information for precisely understanding the ginsenoside conversion pathways and mechanisms underlying the steaming process.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antioxidant Activity of Aged Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Fresh ginseng roots were aged in an oven at 80°C for 14 d. The in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of this aged ginseng, in comparison with those of the white and red ginsengs, were evaluated. In in vitro antioxidant assays, the ethanolic extracts from aged ginseng showed significantly higher free radical scavenging activity and reducing power than those of the white and red ginsengs. In in vivo antioxidant assays, mice were fed a high fat diet supplemented with white, red, or aged ginseng powders. High fat feeding resulted in a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and a substantial decrease in antioxidant enzymes activities in the animals. However, diet supplementation of ginseng powders, particularly aged ginseng, markedly reduced lipid peroxidation and enhanced the antioxidant enzymes activities. The results illustrate that the aged ginseng has greater in vitro and in vivo antioxidant capacity than the white and red ginsengs. The aged ginseng also showed considerably higher total saponin, phenolic, and flavonoid contents, indicating that its antioxidant capacity may have been partly due to its high levels of antioxidant compounds. This new ginseng product may be useful as a functional food with strong antioxidant potential.

Aged ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) reduces blood glucose levels and improves lipid metabolism in high fat diet-fed mice

Aged ginseng is unpeeled ginseng root that has been dried and heat-treated in an oven at 80°C for 14 days. The effects of aged ginseng, in comparison with white and red ginseng, on the lipid and glucose metabolism in high fat-fed mice were investigated. C57BL/6N mice were randomly divided into six dietary groups of normal control, high fat, and high fat supplemented with white, red, aged four-year old, and aged five-year old ginseng. After 8 weeks, ginseng counteracted high fat dietinduced body weight gain, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia via a mechanism involving modulation of hepatic lipogenesis, adipokine production, and glucose-regulating enzyme activities. Aged ginseng showed greater antihyperlipidemic and antihyperglycemic activities than white ginseng and exhibited physiological effects similar to red ginseng, perhaps due to a relatively high ginsenoside content. Aged ginseng can be beneficial as a functional food.

Metabolite profiles of ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 in zebrafish using ultraperformance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-time-of-flight MS

BACKGROUND

In the present study, metabolite profiles of ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 from red ginseng or red notoginseng in zebrafish were qualitatively analyzed with ultraperformance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-time-of-flight MS, and the possible metabolic were pathways proposed.

METHODS

After exposing to zebrafish for 24 h, we determined the metabolites of ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5. The chromatography was accomplished on UPLC BEH C18 column using a binary gradient elution of 0.1% formic acetonitrile-0.1% formic acid water. The quasimolecular ions of compounds were analyzed in the negative mode. With reference to quasimolecular ions and MS2 spectra, by comparing with reference standards and matching the empirical molecular formula with that of known published compounds, and then the potential structures of metabolites of ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5 were acquired.

RESULTS

Four and seven metabolites of ginsenoside Rk1 and ginsenoside Rg5, respectively, were identified in zebrafish. The mechanisms involved were further deduced to be desugarization, glucuronidation, sulfation, and dehydroxymethylation pathways. Dehydroxylation and loss of C-17 residue were also metabolic pathways of ginsenoside Rg5 in zebrafish.

CONCLUSION

Loss of glucose at position C-3 and glucuronidation at position C-12 in zebrafish were regarded as the primary physiological processes of ginsenosides Rk1 and Rg5.

Black Ginseng Extract Counteracts Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Mice

Black ginseng, a new type of processed ginseng that has a unique ginsenoside profile, has been shown to display potent pharmacological activities in in vitro and in vivo models. Although red ginseng is considered beneficial for the prevention of diabetes, the relationship between black ginseng and diabetes is unknown. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the anti-diabetic potential of black ginseng extract (BGE) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced insulin-deficient diabetic mice, in comparison with red ginseng extract (RGE). HPLC analyses showed that BGE has a different ginsenoside composition to RGE; BGE contains Rg5 and compound k as the major ginsenosides. BGE at 200 mg/kg reduced hyperglycemia, increased the insulin/glucose ratio and improved islet architecture and β-cell function in STZ-treated mice. The inhibition of β-cell apoptosis by BGE was associated with suppression of the cytokine-induced nuclear factor-κB-mediated signaling pathway in the pancreas. Moreover, these anti-diabetic effects of BGE were more potent than those of RGE. Collectively, our data indicate that BGE, in part by suppressing cytokine-induced apoptotic signaling, protects β-cells from oxidative injury and counteracts diabetes in mice.

Tailoring and recycling of deep eutectic solvents as sustainable and efficient extraction media

The present study demonstrates that deep eutectic solvents (DESs) with the highest extractability can be designed by combining effective DES components from screening diverse DESs. The extraction of polar ginseng saponins from white ginseng was used as a way to demonstrate the tuneability as well as recyclability of DESs. A newly designed ternary DES (GPS-5) composed of glycerol, l-proline, and sucrose at 9:4:1 was used as a sustainable and efficient extraction medium. Based on the anti-tumor activity on HCT-116 cancer cells, it was confirmed that GPS-5 was merely an extraction solvent with no influence of the bioactivity of the ginsenosides extracted. Excellent recovery of the extracted saponins was easily achieved through solid-phase extraction (SPE). Recycling of the DES was accomplished by simple freeze-drying of the washed solutions from the SPE. The extraction efficiencies of the DESs recycled once, twice, and thrice were 92%, 85%, and 83% of that of the freshly synthesized solvent.

Black ginseng extract ameliorates hypercholesterolemia in rats

Background

Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) is a well-characterized medicinal herb listed in the classic oriental herbal dictionary as “Shin-nong-bon-cho-kyung.” Ginseng has diverse pharmacologic and therapeutic properties. Black ginseng (BG, Ginseng Radix nigra) is produced by repeatedly steaming fresh ginseng nine times. Studies of BG have shown that prolonged heat treatment enhances the antioxidant activity with increased radical scavenging activity. Several recent studies have showed the effects of BG on increased lipid profiles in mice. In this study report the effects of water and ethanol extracts of BG on hypercholesterolemia in rats. To our knowledge, this is the first time such an effect has been reported.

Methods

Experiments were conducted on male Sprague Dawley rats fed with a high-cholesterol diet supplemented with the water and ethanol extracts of BG (200 mg/kg). Their blood cholesterol levels, serum white blood cell levels, and cholesterol-metabolizing marker genes messenger RNA (mRNA) expression were determined. Liver and adipose tissues were histologically analyzed.

Results

We found that BG extracts efficiently reduced the total serum cholesterol levels, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels with increased food efficiency ratio and increased number of neutrophil cells. It also attenuated the key genes responsible for lipogenesis, that is, acetyl-coenzyme A (CoA) acetyltransferase 2, 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase, and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2, at the mRNA level inside liver cells. Furthermore, the BG extract also reduced the accumulation of fat in adipose tissues, and inhibited the neutral fat content in liver cells stained with hematoxylin and eosin and oil red O.

Conclusion

Administration of BG extracts to Sprague Dawley rats fed with high-cholesterol diet ameliorated hypercholesterolemia, which was mediated via modulation of cholesterol-metabolizing marker genes. This data throw a light on BG's cardioprotective effects.

Effect of white, red and black ginseng on physicochemical properties and ginsenosides

A systematic comparison of the ginsenosides and physicochemical properties of white ginseng (WG), red ginseng (RG) and black ginseng (BG) was performed. The purpose of the present study was to identify the effects of the physicochemical properties by steaming process. During the steaming process, ginsenosides transform into specific ginsenosides by hydrolysis, dehydration and isomerization at C-3, C-6 or C-20. Steaming ginseng led to a significant increase in reducing sugar, acidic polysaccharide and phenolic compounds content. Antioxidative properties were investigated using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity, compared with BHA (Butylated hydroxyanisole). RG and BG exhibited higher antioxidant activity than WG. The maximum residue level for Benzo(a)pyrene was established to 5 μg/kg in food products. The levels of benzo(a)pyrene in WG and RG were not detected. Benzo(a)pyrene was detected in the BG, the content was 0.17 μg/kg. The scientific achievements of the present study could help consumers to choose different type of ginseng products available on the market.

Panax notoginseng saponins promote wound repair of anterior cruciate ligament through phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT and ERK

Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) are components derived from Chinese herb panax notoginseng and play important roles in the cure of wounds. However, how PNS plays this function is still unclear. In this study, we used MTT assay, wound healing assay, western blot, quantitative real time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect the effects of PNS on the proliferation, migration and expression of collagen and fibronectin of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) fibroblasts as well as the underlying mechanism. We found that PNS promoted the proliferation and migration of ACL fibroblasts and increased the expression levels of collagen and fibronectin. Further mechanism study indicates that PNS might play its function through the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT and ERK. This study provides a possible mechanism for the function of PNS and lays foundation for further study on the function of panax notoginseng.

Antitumor effects of dammarane-type saponins from steamed Notoginseng

Six dammarane-type saponins were extracted from steamed Panax notoginseng. Their chemical structures were identified spectroscopically as ginsenosides Rh1 (1), Rg1 (2), 20 (S)-Rg3 (3), 20 (R)-Rg3 (4), Rb3 (5), and Rb1 (6). Compounds (0.1-10 μM) were tested for inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF)-induced nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) luciferase reporter activity using a human kidney 293T cell-based assay. Ginsenoside Rb3 (5) showed the most significant activity with an IC50 of 8.2 μM. This compound also inhibited the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) messenger Ribonucleic acid (mRNA) in a dose-dependent manner after HepG2 cells had been treated with TNF-α (10 ng/mL).