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Xu D, Zhang Y, Bai J, Yuan H, Wang T, Liu J, Song W, Ma D. Botanical drugs for treating erectile dysfunction: clinical evidence. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1232774. [PMID: 37654605 PMCID: PMC10467024 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1232774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5-i) have been widely used in clinical practice for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). However, due to its suboptimal therapeutic effects and side effects, it is necessary to develop new medicines for ED treatment. Botanical drugs have been widely investigated as potential ED treatment drugs and have shown promising therapeutic effects. This review summarized 34 studies, including five botanical drugs with PDE5 inhibitory activity, seven botanical drugs without PDE5 inhibitory activity, and six mixed botanical drugs. The results of clinical studies regarding the aforementioned botanical drugs and relevant mechanisms are summarized in this study. It is necessary to conduct high-quality clinical trials to verify the dosage, targeted patients and therapeutic effects, and further pharmacology experiments are also needed to identify the active compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengjianyi Xu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yucong Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Institute of Gerontology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian Bai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Huixing Yuan
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jihong Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wen Song
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Delin Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Sin VJE, Anand GS, Koh HL. Botanical Medicine and Natural Products Used for Erectile Dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2020; 9:568-592. [PMID: 33277212 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Erectile dysfunction is the persistent or recurrent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for intercourse. Despite various treatment options, not all patients respond adequately and their usefulness is limited by adverse effects and cost. Botanical medicine and natural products have been and continue to be invaluable and untapped sources of new drugs, including potentially those to treat erectile dysfunction. OBJECTIVES To review the current literature on botanical medicine traditionally used as aphrodisiacs and treatment of erectile dysfunction, in particular, scientific and clinical investigations that have been performed, possible active phytoconstituents, and mechanisms of action and to identify gaps in current knowledge to better guide future research efforts. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted via PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science on English publications, using various keywords, for example, "herb", "natural product", combined with "erectile dysfunction", "aphrodisiac", and "sexual performance". RESULTS 369 relevant articles studying medicinal plants used for erectile dysfunction were analyzed. A total of 718 plants from 145 families and 499 genera were reported to be used traditionally as aphrodisiacs and treatment of erectile dysfunction. Top plants used include Pausinystalia johimbe, Lepidium meyenii, and Panax ginseng. Different plant parts are used, with roots being the most common. Less than half of these plants have been evaluated scientifically, using various research methodologies. Clinical trials conducted were collated. Current scientific investigation shows mixed results about their usefulness in enhancing sexual performance. A limited number of studies have attempted to elucidate the mechanisms of action of these medicinal plants. CONCLUSION A comprehensive literature review on botanical medicine and natural products used for treatment of erectile dysfunction was successfully conducted. Although medicinal plants serve as a potential source of lead compounds for erectile dysfunction drugs, further studies are warranted to further evaluate their efficacy and safety. SinVJ-E, Anand GS, Koh H-L. Botanical Medicine and Natural Products Used for Erectile Dysfunction. Sex Med Rev 2020;XX:XXX-XXX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Jia-En Sin
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ganesh Srinivasan Anand
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hwee-Ling Koh
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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Jakaria M, Kim J, Karthivashan G, Park SY, Ganesan P, Choi DK. Emerging signals modulating potential of ginseng and its active compounds focusing on neurodegenerative diseases. J Ginseng Res 2018; 43:163-171. [PMID: 30976157 PMCID: PMC6437449 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Common features of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) include progressive dysfunctions and neuronal injuries leading to deterioration in normal brain functions. At present, ginseng is one of the most frequently used natural products. Its use has a long history as a cure for various diseases because its extracts and active compounds exhibit several pharmacological properties against several disorders. However, the pathophysiology of NDDs is not fully clear, but researchers have found that various ion channels and specific signaling pathways might have contributed to the disease pathogenesis. Apart from the different pharmacological potentials, ginseng and its active compounds modulate various ion channels and specific molecular signaling pathways related to the nervous system. Here, we discuss the signal modulating potential of ginseng and its active compounds mainly focusing on those relevant to NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jakaria
- Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, Chungju, Republic of Korea
| | - Joonsoo Kim
- Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, Chungju, Republic of Korea
| | - Govindarajan Karthivashan
- Research Institute of Inflammatory Disease, and Department of Biotechnology, College of Biomedical and Health Science, Konkuk University, Chungju 27478, Korea
| | - Shin-Young Park
- Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, Chungju, Republic of Korea
| | - Palanivel Ganesan
- Research Institute of Inflammatory Disease, and Department of Biotechnology, College of Biomedical and Health Science, Konkuk University, Chungju 27478, Korea.,Nanotechnology Research Center, Konkuk University, Chungju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Kug Choi
- Department of Applied Life Science, Graduate School, Konkuk University, Chungju, Republic of Korea.,Research Institute of Inflammatory Disease, and Department of Biotechnology, College of Biomedical and Health Science, Konkuk University, Chungju 27478, Korea.,Nanotechnology Research Center, Konkuk University, Chungju, Republic of Korea
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Gardner A, Wu W, Thomson S, Zangerl-Plessl EM, Stary-Weinzinger A, Sanguinetti MC. Molecular Basis of Altered hERG1 Channel Gating Induced by Ginsenoside Rg3. Mol Pharmacol 2017; 92:437-450. [PMID: 28705808 DOI: 10.1124/mol.117.108886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Outward current conducted by human ether-à-go-go-related gene type 1 (hERG1) channels is a major determinant of action potential repolarization in the human ventricle. Ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3 [Rg3; (2S,3R,4S,5S,6R)-2-[(2R,3R,4S,5S,6R)-4,5-dihydroxy-2-[[(3S,5R,8R,9R,10R,12R,13R,14R,17S)-12-hydroxy-17-[(2S)-2-hydroxy-6-methylhept-5-en-2-yl]-4,4,8,10,14-pentamethyl-2,3,5,6,7,9,11,12,13,15,16,17-dodecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yl]oxy]-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxan-3-yl]oxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxane-3,4,5-triol], an alkaloid isolated from the root of Panax ginseng, slows the rate of hERG1 deactivation, induces channels to open at more negative potentials than normal, and increases current magnitude. The onset of Rg3 action is extremely fast, suggesting that it binds to an extracellular accessible site on the channel to alter its gating. Here we used a scanning mutagenesis approach to identify residues in the extracellular loops and transmembrane segments of hERG1 that might interact with Rg3. Single or multiple residues of hERG1 were mutated to Ala or Cys and the resulting mutant channels were heterologously expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The effects of Rg3 on the voltage dependence of activation and the deactivation rate of mutant channel currents were characterized using the two-microelectrode voltage clamp technique. Mutation to Ala of specific residues in the S1 (Tyr420), S2 (Leu452, Phe463), and S4 (Ile521, Lys525) segments partially inhibited the effects of Rg3 on hERG1. The double mutant Y420A/L452A nearly eliminated the effects of Rg3 on voltage-dependent channel gating but did not prevent the increase in current magnitude. These findings together with molecular modeling suggest that Rg3 alters the gating of hERG1 channels by interacting with and stabilizing the voltage sensor domain in an activated state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Gardner
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (A.G., W.W., S.T., M.C.S.) and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (E.-M.Z.-P., A.S.-W.)
| | - Wei Wu
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (A.G., W.W., S.T., M.C.S.) and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (E.-M.Z.-P., A.S.-W.)
| | - Steven Thomson
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (A.G., W.W., S.T., M.C.S.) and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (E.-M.Z.-P., A.S.-W.)
| | - Eva-Maria Zangerl-Plessl
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (A.G., W.W., S.T., M.C.S.) and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (E.-M.Z.-P., A.S.-W.)
| | - Anna Stary-Weinzinger
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (A.G., W.W., S.T., M.C.S.) and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (E.-M.Z.-P., A.S.-W.)
| | - Michael C Sanguinetti
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (A.G., W.W., S.T., M.C.S.) and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria (E.-M.Z.-P., A.S.-W.)
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5
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Wu W, Gardner A, Sachse FB, Sanguinetti MC. Ginsenoside Rg3, a Gating Modifier of EAG Family K+ Channels. Mol Pharmacol 2016; 90:469-82. [PMID: 27502018 DOI: 10.1124/mol.116.104091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3 (Rg3) is a steroid glycoside that induces human ether-à-go-go-related gene type 1 (hERG1, Kv11.1) channels to activate at more negative potentials and to deactivate more slowly than normal. However, it is unknown whether this action is unique to hERG1 channels. Here we compare and contrast the mechanisms of actions of Rg3 on hERG1 with three other members of the ether-à-go-go (EAG) K(+) channel gene family, including EAG1 (Kv10.1), ERG3 (Kv11.3), and ELK1 (Kv12.1). All four channel types were heterologously expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, and K(+) currents were measured using the two-microelectrode voltage-clamp technique. At a maximally effective concentration, Rg3 shifted the half-point of voltage-dependent activation of currents by -14 mV for ERG1 (EC50 = 414 nM), -20 mV for ERG3 (EC50 = 374 nM), -28 mV for EAG1 (EC50 = 1.18 μM), and more than -100 mV for ELK1 (EC50 = 197 nM) channels. Rg3 also induced slowing of ERG1, ERG3, and ELK1 channel deactivation and accelerated the rate of EAG1 channel activation. A Markov model was developed to simulate gating and the effects of Rg3 on the voltage dependence of activation of hELK1 channels. Understanding the mechanism underlying the action of Rg3 may facilitate the development of more potent and selective EAG family channel activators as therapies for cardiovascular and neural disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wu
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (W.W., A.G., F.B.S., M.C.S.), Department of Bioengineering (F.B.S.), Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Alison Gardner
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (W.W., A.G., F.B.S., M.C.S.), Department of Bioengineering (F.B.S.), Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Frank B Sachse
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (W.W., A.G., F.B.S., M.C.S.), Department of Bioengineering (F.B.S.), Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Michael C Sanguinetti
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute (W.W., A.G., F.B.S., M.C.S.), Department of Bioengineering (F.B.S.), Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (M.C.S.), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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6
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Park JI, Bae HR, Kim CG, Stonik VA, Kwak JY. Relationships between chemical structures and functions of triterpene glycosides isolated from sea cucumbers. Front Chem 2014; 2:77. [PMID: 25250309 PMCID: PMC4159031 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2014.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Many marine triterpene glycosides have in vitro and in vivo activities with very low toxicity, suggesting that they are suitable agents for the prevention and treatment of different diseases, particularly cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms of action of natural marine compounds in cancer, immune, and other various cells are not fully known. This review focuses on the structural characteristics of marine triterpene glycosides and how these affect their biological activities and molecular mechanisms. In particular, the membranotropic and membranolytic activities of frondoside A and cucumariosides from sea cucumbers and their ability to induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis have been discussed, with a focus on structure-activity relationships. In addition, the structural characteristics and antitumor effects of stichoposide C and stichoposide D have been reviewed along with underlying their molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo-In Park
- Department of Biochemistry, Dong-A UniversityBusan, South Korea
| | - Hae-Rahn Bae
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Dong-A UniversityBusan, South Korea
| | - Chang Gun Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Dong-A UniversityBusan, South Korea
- Immune-Network Pioneer Research Center, Dong-A UniversityBusan, South Korea
| | - Valentin A. Stonik
- The Laboratory of Chemistry of Marine Natural Products, G. B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far-Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of ScienceVladivostok, Russia
| | - Jong-Young Kwak
- Department of Biochemistry, Dong-A UniversityBusan, South Korea
- Immune-Network Pioneer Research Center, Dong-A UniversityBusan, South Korea
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7
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Choi SH, Lee BH, Kim HJ, Jung SW, Kim HS, Shin HC, Lee JH, Kim HC, Rhim H, Hwang SH, Ha TS, Kim HJ, Cho H, Nah SY. Ginseng gintonin activates the human cardiac delayed rectifier K+ channel: involvement of Ca2+/calmodulin binding sites. Mol Cells 2014; 37:656-63. [PMID: 25234465 PMCID: PMC4179134 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2014.0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Revised: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gintonin, a novel, ginseng-derived G protein-coupled lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand, elicits [Ca(2+)]i transients in neuronal and non-neuronal cells via pertussis toxin-sensitive and pertussis toxin-insensitive G proteins. The slowly activating delayed rectifier K(+) (I(Ks)) channel is a cardiac K(+) channel composed of KCNQ1 and KCNE1 subunits. The C terminus of the KCNQ1 channel protein has two calmodulin-binding sites that are involved in regulating I(Ks) channels. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of gintonin-mediated activation of human I(Ks) channel activity by expressing human I(Ks) channels in Xenopus oocytes. We found that gintonin enhances IKs channel currents in concentration- and voltage-dependent manners. The EC50 for the I(Ks) channel was 0.05 ± 0.01 μg/ml. Gintonin-mediated activation of the I(Ks) channels was blocked by an LPA1/3 receptor antagonist, an active phospholipase C inhibitor, an IP3 receptor antagonist, and the calcium chelator BAPTA. Gintonin-mediated activation of both the I(Ks) channel was also blocked by the calmodulin (CaM) blocker calmidazolium. Mutations in the KCNQ1 [Ca(2+)]i/CaM-binding IQ motif sites (S373P, W392R, or R539W)blocked the action of gintonin on I(Ks) channel. However, gintonin had no effect on hERG K(+) channel activity. These results show that gintonin-mediated enhancement of I(Ks) channel currents is achieved through binding of the [Ca(2+)]i/CaM complex to the C terminus of KCNQ1 subunit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Hye Choi
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Byung-Hwan Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Seok-Won Jung
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Hyun-Sook Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Ho-Chul Shin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
| | - Jun-Hee Lee
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Cheongju University, Cheongju 360-764, Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 200-701, Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Life Science Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791, Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering College of Health Sciences Sangji University, Wonju 220-702, Korea
| | - Tal soo Ha
- Department of Biomedical Science, Daegu University, Gyeonsan 712-714, Korea
| | - Hyun-Ji Kim
- Department of Physiology and Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Korea
| | - Hana Cho
- Department of Physiology and Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
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Smith I, Williamson EM, Putnam S, Farrimond J, Whalley BJ. Effects and mechanisms of ginseng and ginsenosides on cognition. Nutr Rev 2014; 72:319-33. [DOI: 10.1111/nure.12099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Smith
- School of Chemistry; Food and Nutritional Sciences and Pharmacy; University of Reading; Reading Berkshire UK
| | - Elizabeth M Williamson
- School of Chemistry; Food and Nutritional Sciences and Pharmacy; University of Reading; Reading Berkshire UK
| | | | | | - Benjamin J Whalley
- School of Chemistry; Food and Nutritional Sciences and Pharmacy; University of Reading; Reading Berkshire UK
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Nah SY. Ginseng ginsenoside pharmacology in the nervous system: involvement in the regulation of ion channels and receptors. Front Physiol 2014; 5:98. [PMID: 24678300 PMCID: PMC3958645 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ginseng, the root of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, is one of the oldest traditional medicines and is thought to be a tonic. It has been claimed that ginseng may improve vitality and health. Recent studies have advanced ginseng pharmacology and shown that ginseng has various pharmacological effects in the nervous system. Ginsenosides, steroid glycosides extracted from ginseng, were one of the first class of biologically active plant glycosides identified. The diverse pharmacological effects of ginsenosides have been investigated through the regulation of various types of ion channels and receptors in neuronal cells and heterologous expression systems. Ginsenoside Rg3 regulates voltage-gated ion channels such as Ca(2+), K(+), and Na(+) channels, and ligand-gated ion channels such as GABAA, 5-HT3, nicotinic acetylcholine, and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors through interactions with various sites including channel blocker binding sites, toxin-binding sites, channel gating regions, and allosteric channel regulator binding sites when the respective ion channels or receptors are stimulated with depolarization or ligand treatment. Treatment with ginsenoside Rg3 has been found to stabilize excitable cells by blocking influxes of cations such as Ca(2+) and Na(+), or by enhancing Cl(-) influx. The aim of this review is to present recent findings on the pharmacological functions of the ginsenosides through the interactions with ion channels and receptors. This review will detail the pharmacological applications of ginsenosides as neuroprotective drugs that target ion channels and ligand-gated ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory, Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University Seoul, South Korea
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Yin and Yang of ginseng pharmacology: ginsenosides vs gintonin. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2013; 34:1367-73. [PMID: 24122014 PMCID: PMC3818586 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2013.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ginseng, the root of Panax ginseng, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a tonic herb that provides many beneficial effects. Pharmacologic studies in the last decades have shown that ginsenosides (ginseng saponins) are primarily responsible for the actions of ginseng. However, the effects of ginseng are not fully explained by ginsenosides. Recently, another class of active ingredients called gintonin was identified. Gintonin is a complex of glycosylated ginseng proteins containing lysophosphatidic acids (LPAs) that are the intracellular lipid mitogenic mediator. Gintonin specifically and potently activates the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) for LPA. Thus, the actions of ginseng are now also linked to LPA and its GPCRs. This linkage opens new dimensions for ginseng pharmacology and LPA therapeutics. In the present review, we evaluate the pharmacology of ginseng with the traditional viewpoint of Yin and Yang components. Furthermore, we will compare ginsenoside and gintonin based on the modern view of molecular pharmacology in terms of ion channels and GPCRs.
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Kim HJ, Kim P, Shin CY. A comprehensive review of the therapeutic and pharmacological effects of ginseng and ginsenosides in central nervous system. J Ginseng Res 2013; 37:8-29. [PMID: 23717153 PMCID: PMC3659622 DOI: 10.5142/jgr.2013.37.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2012] [Revised: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ginseng is one of the most widely used herbal medicines in human. Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are most widely investigated diseases among all others in respect to the ginseng’s therapeutic effects. These include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral ischemia, depression, and many other neurological disorders including neurodevelopmental disorders. Not only the various types of diseases but also the diverse array of target pathways or molecules ginseng exerts its effect on. These range, for example, from neuroprotection to the regulation of synaptic plasticity and from regulation of neuroinflammatory processes to the regulation of neurotransmitter release, too many to mention. In general, ginseng and even a single compound of ginsenoside produce its effects on multiple sites of action, which make it an ideal candidate to develop multi-target drugs. This is most important in CNS diseases where multiple of etiological and pathological targets working together to regulate the final pathophysiology of diseases. In this review, we tried to provide comprehensive information on the pharmacological and therapeutic effects of ginseng and ginsenosides on neurodegenerative and other neurological diseases. Side by side comparison of the therapeutic effects in various neurological disorders may widen our understanding of the therapeutic potential of ginseng in CNS diseases and the possibility to develop not only symptomatic drugs but also disease modifying reagents based on ginseng.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine and Advanced Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
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Molecular mechanisms of large-conductance ca (2+) -activated potassium channel activation by ginseng gintonin. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:323709. [PMID: 23662129 PMCID: PMC3638619 DOI: 10.1155/2013/323709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Gintonin is a unique lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand
found in Panax ginseng. Gintonin induces transient
[Ca2+]i
through G protein-coupled LPA receptors. Large-conductance Ca2+-activated
K+ (BKCa)
channels are expressed in blood vessels and neurons and
play important roles in blood vessel relaxation and attenuation of
neuronal excitability. BKCa channels are activated by transient
[Ca2+]i
and are regulated by various Ca2+-dependent kinases. We
investigated the molecular mechanisms of BKCa channel activation
by gintonin. BKCa channels are heterologously expressed in
Xenopus oocytes. Gintonin treatment induced BKCa channel activation in
oocytes expressing the BKCa channel α subunit in a
concentration-dependent manner (EC50 = 0.71 ± 0.08 µg/mL).
Gintonin-mediated BKCa channel activation was blocked by a PKC
inhibitor, calphostin, and by the calmodulin inhibitor,
calmidazolium. Site-directed mutations in BKCa channels targeting
CaM kinase II or PKC phosphorylation sites but not PKA
phosphorylation sites attenuated gintonin action. Mutations in the
Ca2+ bowl and the regulator of K+ conductance (RCK) site also
blocked gintonin action. These results indicate that
gintonin-mediated BKCa channel activations are achieved through
LPA1 receptor-phospholipase C-IP3-Ca2+-PKC-calmodulin-CaM kinase
II pathways and calcium binding to the Ca2+ bowl and RCK domain.
Gintonin could be a novel contributor against blood vessel
constriction and over-excitation of neurons.
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13
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Kim BJ. The role of ginseng total saponin in transient receptor potential melastatin type 7 channels. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2012. [DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2012.680495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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14
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Choi SH, Shin TJ, Hwang SH, Lee BH, Kang J, Kim HJ, Jo SH, Choe H, Nah SY. Ginsenoside Rg(3) decelerates hERG K(+) channel deactivation through Ser631 residue interaction. Eur J Pharmacol 2011; 663:59-67. [PMID: 21586280 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2011.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Revised: 04/13/2011] [Accepted: 05/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) cardiac K(+) channels are one of the representative pharmacological targets for development of drugs against cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmia. Panax ginseng has been known to have cardio-protective effects. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of how ginsenosides, the active ingredients in Panax ginseng, interact with hERG K(+) channel proteins. In the present study, we first examined the effects of various ginsenosides on hERG K(+) channel activity by expressing human α subunits in Xenopus oocytes. Among them ginsenoside Rg(3) (Rg(3)) most potently enhanced outward I(hERG) and peak I(tail). Rg(3) induced a large persistent deactivating-tail current (I(deactivating-tail)) and profoundly decelerated deactivating current decay in both concentration- and voltage-dependent manners. The EC(50) for steady-state I(hERG), peak I(tail), and persistent I(deactivating-tail) was 0.41±0.05, 0.61±0.11, and 0.36±0.04μM, respectively. Rg(3) actions were blocked by bepridil, a hERG K(+) channel antagonist. Site-directed mutation of S631, which is located at the channel pore entryway, to S631C in hERG K(+) channel abolished Rg(3) actions on hERG K(+) channels. These results indicate that S631 residue of hERG K(+) channel plays an important role in Rg(3)-mediated induction of a persistent I(deactivating-tail) and in a deceleration of hERG K(+) channel deactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, South Korea
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