Ginsenoside Rg1 prevents bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell senescence via NRF2 and PI3K/Akt signaling

Nrf2 mediated signaling axis in heart failure: Potential pharmacological receptor

Heart failure (HF) has emerged as the most pressing health concerns globally, and extant clinical therapies are accompanied by side effects and patients have a high burden of financial. The protein products of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) target genes have a variety of cardioprotective effects, including antioxidant, metabolic functions and anti-inflammatory. By evaluating established preclinical and clinical research in HF to date, we explored the potential of Nrf2 to exert unique cardioprotective functions as a novel therapeutic receptor for HF. In this review, we generalize the progression, structure, and function of Nrf2 research in the cardiovascular system. The mechanism of action of Nrf2 involved in HF as well as agonists of Nrf2 in natural compounds are summarized. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and implications for future clinical translation and application of pharmacology targeting Nrf2. It's critical to developing new drugs for HF.

Research progress of the mechanisms and applications of ginsenosides in promoting bone formation

BACKGROUND

Bone deficiency-related diseases caused by various factors have disrupted the normal function of the skeleton and imposed a heavy burden globally, urgently requiring potential new treatments. The multi-faceted role of compounds like ginsenosides and their interaction with the bone microenvironment, particularly osteoblasts can promote bone formation and exhibit anti-inflammatory, vascular remodeling, and antibacterial properties, holding potential value in the treatment of bone deficiency-related diseases and bone tissue engineering.

PURPOSE

This review summarizes the interaction between ginsenosides and osteoblasts and the bone microenvironment in bone formation, including vascular remodeling and immune regulation, as well as their therapeutic potential and toxicity in the broad treatment applications of bone deficiency-related diseases and bone tissue engineering, to provide novel insights and treatment strategies.

METHODS

The literature focusing on the mechanisms and applications of ginsenosides in promoting bone formation before March 2024 was searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. Keywords such as "phytochemicals", "ginsenosides", "biomaterials", "bone", "diseases", "bone formation", "microenvironment", "bone tissue engineering", "rheumatoid arthritis", "periodontitis", "osteoarthritis", "osteoporosis", "fracture", "toxicology", "pharmacology", and combinations of these keywords were used.

RESULTS

Ginsenoside monomers regulate signaling pathways such as WNT/β-catenin, FGF, and BMP/TGF-β, stimulating osteoblast generation and differentiation. It exerts angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects by regulating the bone surrounding microenvironment through signaling such as WNT/β-catenin, NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and Notch. It shows therapeutic effects and biological safety in the treatment of bone deficiency-related diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, periodontitis, osteoporosis, and fractures, and bone tissue engineering by promoting osteogenesis and improving the microenvironment of bone formation.

CONCLUSION

The functions of ginsenosides are diverse and promising in treating bone deficiency-related diseases and bone tissue engineering. Moreover, potential exists in regulating the bone microenvironment, modifying biomaterials, and treating inflammatory-related bone diseases and dental material applications. However, the mechanisms and effects of some ginsenoside monomers are still unclear, and the lack of clinical research limits their clinical application. Further exploration and evaluation of the potential of ginsenosides in these areas are expected to provide more effective methods for treating bone defects.

Ginsenoside Rg3 attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion-induced ferroptosis via the keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Ginsenoside Rg3 is a component of ginseng that protects against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury. Ferroptosis is a new form of cell death characterized by oxidative damage to phospholipids. The purpose of this study was to examine the role and of ginsenoside Rg3 in MI/R and the mechanism.

METHODS

A mouse model of left anterior descending (LAD) ligation-induced myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) were used as in vitro and in vivo models, respectively. Echocardiographic analysis, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining were used to assess the cardioprotective effects of ginsenoside Rg3. Western blotting, biochemical analysis, small interfering RNA analysis and molecular docking were performed to examine the underlying mechanism.

RESULTS

Ginsenoside Rg3 improved cardiac function and infarct size in mice with MI/R injury. Moreover, ginsenoside Rg3 increased the expression of the ferroptosis-related protein GPX4 and inhibited iron deposition in mice with MI/R injury. Ginsenoside Rg3 also activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Ginsenoside Rg3 attenuated myocardial ischemia/reperfusion-induced ferroptosis via the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Notably, ginsenoside Rg3 regulated the keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway to attenuate OGD/R-induced ferroptosis in H9C2 cells. Taken together, ginsenoside Rg3 attenuated myocardial ischemia/reperfusion-induced ferroptosis via the keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated that ginsenoside Rg3 ameliorate MI/R-induced ferroptosis via the keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway.

Bone transport induces the release of factors with multi-tissue regenerative potential for diabetic wound healing in rats and patients

Tibial cortex transverse distraction is a surgical method for treating severe diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), but the underlying mechanism is unclear. We show that antioxidant proteins and small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) with multiple-tissue regenerative potential are released during bone transport (BT) in humans and rats. These vesicles accumulate in diabetic wounds and are enriched with microRNAs (miRNAs) (e.g., miR-494-3p) that have high regenerative activities that improve the circulation of ischemic lower limbs while also promoting neovascularization, fibroblast migration, and nerve fiber regeneration. Deletion of miR-494-3p in rats reduces the beneficial effects of BT on diabetic wounds, while hydrogels containing miR-494-3p and reduced glutathione (GSH) effectively repair them. Importantly, the ginsenoside Rg1 can upregulate miR-494-3p, and a randomized controlled trial verifies that the regimen of oral Rg1 and GSH accelerates wound healing in refractory DFU patients. These findings identify potential functional factors for tissue regeneration and suggest a potential therapy for DFUs.

Melatonin attenuates dental pulp stem cells senescence due to vitro expansion via inhibiting MMP3

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify the crucial genes involved in dental pulp stem cell (DPSC) senescence and evaluate the impact of melatonin on DPSC senescence.

METHODS

Western blotting, SA-β-Gal staining and ALP staining were used to evaluate the senescence and differentiation potential of DPSCs. The optimal concentration of melatonin was determined using the CCK-8 assay. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in DPSC senescence were obtained via bioinformatics analysis, followed by RT-qPCR. Gain- and loss-of-function studies were conducted to explore the role of MMP3 in DPSC in vitro expansion and in response to melatonin. GSEA was employed to analyse MMP3-related pathways in cellular senescence.

RESULTS

Treatment with 0.1 μM melatonin attenuated cellular senescence and differentiation potential suppression in DPSCs due to long-term in vitro expansion. MMP3 was a crucial gene in senescence, as confirmed by bioinformatics analysis, RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Furthermore, gain- and loss-of-function studies revealed that MMP3 played a regulatory role in cellular senescence. Rescue assays showed that overexpression of MMP3 reversed the effect of melatonin on senescence. GSEA revealed that the MMP3-dependent anti-senescence effect of melatonin was associated with the IL6-JAK-STAT3, TNF-α-Signalling-VIA-NF-κB, COMPLEMENT, NOTCH Signalling and PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathways.

CONCLUSION

Melatonin attenuated DPSC senescence caused by long-term expansion by inhibiting MMP3.

Developing Chinese herbal-based functional biomaterials for tissue engineering

The role of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in treating diseases is receiving increasing attention. Chinese herbal medicine is an important part of TCM with various applications and the active ingredients extracted from Chinese herbal medicines have physiological and pathological effects. Tissue engineering combines cell biology and materials science to construct tissues or organs in vitro or in vivo. TCM has been proposed by the World Health Organization as an effective treatment modality. In recent years, the potential use of TCM in tissue engineering has been demonstrated. In this review, the classification and efficacy of TCM active ingredients and delivery systems are discussed based on the TCM theory. We also summarized the current application status and broad prospects of Chinese herbal active ingredients in different specialized biomaterials in the field of tissue engineering. This review provides novel insights into the integration of TCM and modern Western medicine through the application of Chinese medicine in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Traditional herbs: mechanisms to combat cellular senescence

Cellular senescence plays a very important role in the ageing of organisms and age-related diseases that increase with age, a process that involves physiological, structural, biochemical and molecular changes in cells. In recent years, it has been found that the active ingredients of herbs and their natural products can prevent and control cellular senescence by affecting telomerase activity, oxidative stress response, autophagy, mitochondrial disorders, DNA damage, inflammatory response, metabolism, intestinal flora, and other factors. In this paper, we review the research information on the prevention and control of cellular senescence in Chinese herbal medicine through computer searches of PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct and CNKI databases.

Molecular mechanisms of cellular metabolic homeostasis in stem cells

Many tissues and organ systems have intrinsic regeneration capabilities that are largely driven and maintained by tissue-resident stem cell populations. In recent years, growing evidence has demonstrated that cellular metabolic homeostasis plays a central role in mediating stem cell fate, tissue regeneration, and homeostasis. Thus, a thorough understanding of the mechanisms that regulate metabolic homeostasis in stem cells may contribute to our knowledge on how tissue homeostasis is maintained and provide novel insights for disease management. In this review, we summarize the known relationship between the regulation of metabolic homeostasis and molecular pathways in stem cells. We also discuss potential targets of metabolic homeostasis in disease therapy and describe the current limitations and future directions in the development of these novel therapeutic targets.

Bazi Bushen maintains intestinal homeostasis through inhibiting TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway and regulating gut microbiota in SAMP6 mice

BACKGROUND

Bazi Bushen is a Chinese patented medicine with multiple health benefits and geroprotective effects, yet, no research has explored its effects on intestinal homeostasis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of Bazi Bushen on intestinal inflammation and the potential mechanism of gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal homeostasis in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 6 (SAMP6). The hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry were performed to assess the function of the intestinal mucosal barrier. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blotting were used to determine the level of intestinal inflammation. The aging-related β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining and Western blotting were used to measure the extent of intestinal aging. The 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) was performed to analyze the change in gut microbiota composition and distribution.

RESULTS

Bazi Bushen exerted remarkable protective effects in SAMP6, showing a regulated mucosal barrier and increased barrier integrity. It also suppressed intestinal inflammation through down-regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) and inhibiting TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway (MYD88, p-p65, and TLR4). Bazi Bushen improved intestinal aging by reducing the area of SA-β-gal-positive cells and the expression of senescence markers p16, p21, and p53. In addition, Bazi Bushen effectively rebuilt the gut microbiota ecosystem by decreasing the abundance of Bacteroides and Klebsiella, whiles increasing the ratio of Lactobacillus/Bacteroides and the abundance of Akkermansia.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that Bazi Bushen could serve as a potential therapy for maintaining intestinal homeostasis. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

The anti-aging mechanism of ginsenosides with medicine and food homology

With the acceleration of global aging and the rise in living standards, the achievement of healthy aging is becoming an imperative issue globally. Ginseng, a medicinal plant that has a long history of dietary intake and remarkable medicinal value, has become a research hotspot in the field of food and medicine. Ginsenosides, especially protopanaxadiol-type saponins and protopanaxatriol-type saponins, are among the most important active ingredients in ginseng. Ginsenosides have been found to exhibit powerful and diverse pharmacological activities, such as antiaging, antitumor, antifatigue and immunity enhancement activities. Their effects in antiaging mainly include (1) promotion of metabolism and stem cell proliferation, (2) protection of skin and nerves, (3) modulation of intestinal flora, (4) maintenance of mitochondrial function, and (5) enhancement of telomerase activity. The underlying mechanisms are primarily associated with the intervention of the signaling pathways in apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress. In this review, the mechanism of action of ginsenosides in antiaging as well as the potential values of developing ginsenoside-based functional foods and antiaging drugs are discussed.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Senescence during Aging:From Mechanisms to Rejuvenation Strategies

In cell transplantation therapy, mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are ideal seed cells due to their easy acquisition and cultivation, strong regenerative capacity, multi-directional differentiation abilities, and immunomodulatory effects. Autologous MSCs are better applicable compared with allogeneic MSCs in clinical practice. The elderly are the main population for cell transplantation therapy, but as donor aging, MSCs in the tissue show aging-related changes. When the number of generations of in vitro expansion is increased, MSCs will also exhibit replicative senescence. The quantity and quality of MSCs decline during aging, which limits the efficacy of autologous MSCs transplantation therapy. In this review, we examine the changes in MSC senescence as a result of aging, discuss the progress of research on mechanisms and signalling pathways of MSC senescence, and discuss possible rejuvenation strategies of aged MSCs to combat senescence and enhance the health and therapeutic potential of MSCs.

Enhancing mesenchymal stem cell survival and homing capability to improve cell engraftment efficacy for liver diseases

Although mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation provides an alternative strategy for end-stage liver disease (ESLD), further widespread application of MSC therapy is limited owing to low cell engraftment efficiency. Improving cell engraftment efficiency plays a critical role in enhancing MSC therapy for liver diseases. In this review, we summarize the current status and challenges of MSC transplantation for ESLD. We also outline the complicated cell-homing process and highlight how low cell engraftment efficiency is closely related to huge differences in extracellular conditions involved in MSC homing journeys ranging from constant, controlled conditions in vitro to variable and challenging conditions in vivo. Improving cell survival and homing capabilities enhances MSC engraftment efficacy. Therefore, we summarize the current strategies, including hypoxic priming, drug pretreatment, gene modification, and cytokine pretreatment, as well as splenectomy and local irradiation, used to improve MSC survival and homing capability, and enhance cell engraftment and therapeutic efficiency of MSC therapy. We hope that this review will provide new insights into enhancing the efficiency of MSC engraftment in liver diseases.

Bazi Bushen alleviates skin senescence by orchestrating skin homeostasis in SAMP6 mice

Bazi Bushen, a Chinese-patented drug with the function of relieving fatigue and delaying ageing, has been proven effective for extenuating skin senescence. To investigate the potential mechanism, senescence-accelerated mouse prone 6 (SAMP6) was intragastrically administered with Bazi Bushen for 9 weeks to induce skin homeostasis. Skin homeostasis is important in mitigating skin senescence, and it is related to many factors such as oxidative stress, SASP, apoptosis, autophagy and stem cell. In our study, skin damage in SAMP6 mice was observed using HE, Masson and SA-β-gal staining. The content of hydroxyproline and the activities of SOD, MDA, GSH-PX and T-AOC in the skin were measured using commercial assay kits. The level of SASP factors (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, MMP2 and MMP9) in skin were measured using ELISA kits. The protein expressions of p16, p21, p53, Bax, Bcl-2, Cleaved caspase-3, LC3, p62, Beclin1, OCT4, SOX2 and NANOG were measured by western blotting. The expression of ITGA6 and COL17A1 was measured by immunofluorescence staining and western blotting. Our findings demonstrated that Bazi Bushen alleviated skin senescence by orchestrating skin homeostasis, reducing the level of oxidative stress and the expression of SASP, regulating the balance of apoptosis and autophagy and enhancing the protein expressions of ITGA6 and COL17A1 to improve skin structure in SAMP6 mice. This study indicated that Bazi Bushen could serve as a potential therapy for alleviating skin senescence.

Korean Red Ginseng Attenuates Particulate Matter-Induced Senescence of Skin Keratinocytes

Skin is a direct target of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), as it is constantly exposed. Herein, we investigate whether Korean red ginseng (KRG) can inhibit PM2.5-induced senescence in skin keratinocytes. PM2.5-treated human keratinocyte cell lines and normal human epidermal keratinocytes showed characteristics of cellular senescence, including flat and enlarged forms; however, KRG suppressed them in both cell types. Moreover, while cells exposed to PM2.5 showed a higher level of p16INK4A expression (a senescence inducer), KRG inhibited its expression. Epigenetically, KRG decreased the expression of the ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzyme, a DNA demethylase induced by PM2.5, and increased the expression of DNA methyltransferases suppressed by PM2.5, resulting in the decreased methylation of the p16INK4A promoter region. Additionally, KRG decreased the expression of mixed-lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1), a histone methyltransferase, and histone acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1) induced by PM2.5. Contrastingly, KRG increased the expression of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2, a histone methyltransferase, and histone deacetyltransferase 1 reduced by PM2.5. Furthermore, KRG decreased TET1, MLL1, and HAT1 binding to the p16INK4A promoter, corresponding with the decreased mRNA expression of p16INK4A. These results suggest that KRG exerts protection against the PM2.5-induced senescence of skin keratinocytes via the epigenetic regulation of p16INK4A.

Research Progress on the Anti-Aging Potential of the Active Components of Ginseng

Aging is a cellular state characterized by a permanent cessation of cell division and evasion of apoptosis. DNA damage, metabolic dysfunction, telomere damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction are the main factors associated with senescence. Aging increases β-galactosidase activity, enhances cell spreading, and induces Lamin B1 loss, which further accelerate the aging process. It is associated with a variety of diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, type 2 diabetes, and chronic inflammation. Ginseng is a traditional Chinese medicine with anti-aging effects. The active components of ginseng, including saponins, polysaccharides, and active peptides, have antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotective, and age-delaying effects. DNA damage is the main factor associated with aging, and the mechanism through which the active ingredients of ginseng reduce DNA damage and delay aging has not been comprehensively described. This review focuses on the anti-aging mechanisms of the active ingredients of ginseng. Furthermore, it broadens the scope of ideas for further research on natural products and aging.

Ginsenosides on stem cells fate specification-a novel perspective

Recent studies have demonstrated that stem cells have attracted much attention due to their special abilities of proliferation, differentiation and self-renewal, and are of great significance in regenerative medicine and anti-aging research. Hence, finding natural medicines that intervene the fate specification of stem cells has become a priority. Ginsenosides, the key components of natural botanical ginseng, have been extensively studied for versatile effects, such as regulating stem cells function and resisting aging. This review aims to summarize recent progression regarding the impact of ginsenosides on the behavior of adult stem cells, particularly from the perspective of proliferation, differentiation and self-renewal.

Effect of Nrf2 loss on senescence and cognition of tau-based P301S mice

Cellular senescence may contribute to chronic inflammation involved in the progression of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), and its removal prevents cognitive impairment in a model of tauopathy. Nrf2, the major transcription factor for damage response pathways and regulators of inflammation, declines with age. Our previous work showed that silencing Nrf2 gives rise to premature senescence in cells and mice. Others have shown that Nrf2 ablation can exacerbate cognitive phenotypes of some AD models. In this study, we aimed to understand the relationship between Nrf2 elimination, senescence, and cognitive impairment in AD, by generating a mouse model expressing a mutant human tau transgene in an Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2KO) background. We assessed senescent cell burden and cognitive decline of P301S mice in the presence and absence of Nrf2. Lastly, we administered 4.5-month-long treatments with two senotherapeutic drugs to analyze their potential to prevent senescent cell burden and cognitive decline: the senolytic drugs dasatinib and quercetin (DQ) and the senomorphic drug rapamycin. Nrf2 loss accelerated the onset of hind-limb paralysis in P301S mice. At 8.5 months of age, P301S mice did not exhibit memory deficits, while P301S mice without Nrf2 were significantly impaired. However, markers of senescence were not elevated by Nrf2 ablation in any of tissues that we examined. Neither drug treatment improved cognitive performance, nor did it reduce expression of senescence markers in brains of P301S mice. Contrarily, rapamycin treatment at the doses used delayed spatial learning and led to a modest decrease in spatial memory. Taken together, our data suggests that the emergence of senescence may be causally associated with onset of cognitive decline in the P301S model, indicate that Nrf2 protects brain function in a model of AD through mechanisms that may include, but do not require the inhibition of senescence, and suggest possible limitations for DQ and rapamycin as therapies for AD.

Exosomal miR-141-3p from PDLSCs Alleviates High Glucose-Induced Senescence of PDLSCs by Activating the KEAP1-NRF2 Signaling Pathway

Human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) are the most promising stem cells for periodontal tissue engineering. Senescent PDLSCs have diminished abilities to proliferate and differentiate, affecting the efficiency of periodontal tissue repair and regeneration. Stem cell-derived exosomes are important participants in intercellular information exchange and can help ameliorate senescence. In this study, we investigated PDLSC senescence in a high glucose microenvironment as well as the ability of human periodontal ligament stem cell-derived exosomes (PDLSC-Exos) to alleviate cellular senescence and the underlying mechanisms. Herein, PDLSCs and PDLSC-Exos were isolated and extracted. Then, cellular senescence indicators were evaluated after high glucose (25 mM) treatment of cultured PDLSCs. PDLSC-Exos were cocultured with senescent PDLSCs to further explore the role of PDLSC-Exos in cellular senescence and determine the differences in cellular oxidative stress levels after PDLSC-Exo treatment. Next, we investigated whether PDLSC-Exos alleviated cellular senescence by restoring the balance of oxidative stress signals and explored the underlying molecular pathways. We discovered that PDLSCs underwent premature senescence due to high glucose culture, but they were rejuvenated by PDLSC-Exos. The rejuvenating effects of PDLSC-Exos were notably reversed by cotreatment with ML385, an inhibitor of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), indicating that this recovery depended on NRF2 activation. Further analyses revealed that microRNA-141-3p (miR-141-3p) was expressed at relatively high levels in PDLSC-Exos and was instrumental in PDLSC-Exo-mediated restoration by downregulating Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), which is a negative regulator of NRF2 expression. Our findings suggest that PDLSC-Exos alleviate high glucose-induced senescence of PDLSCs by transferring miR-141-3p to activate the KEAP1-NRF2 signaling pathway. Based on this research, PDLSC-Exos may behave similarly to their parental PDLSCs and have significant effects on cellular senescence by delivering their encapsulated bioactive chemicals to target cells.

Ginsenoside Rg1 in neurological diseases: From bench to bedside

Ginseng has been used in China as a superior medicinal material for thousands of years that can nourish the five internal organs, calm the mind and benefit wisdom. Due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective activities, one of the active components of ginseng, ginsenoside Rg1, has been extensively investigated in the remedy of brain disorders, especially dementia and depression. In this review, we summarized the research progress on the action mechanisms of Rg1 ameliorating depression-like behaviors, including inhibition of hyperfunction of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, regulation of synaptic plasticity and gut flora. Rg1 may alleviate Alzheimer's disease in the early phase, as well as in the middle-late phases through repairing dendrite, axon and microglia- and astrocyte-related inflammations. We also proposed that Rg1 could regulate memory state (the imbalance of working and aversive memory) caused by distinct stimuli. These laboratory studies would further the clinical trials on Rg1. From the prospective of drug development, we discussed the limitations of the present investigations and proposed our ideas to increase permeability and bioavailability of Rg1. Taken together, Rg1 has the potential to treat neuropsychiatric disorders, but a future in-depth investigation of the mechanisms is still required. In addition, drug development will benefit from the clinical trials in one specific neuropsychiatric disorder.

DNA protein kinase promotes cellular senescence in dental follicle cells

OBJECTIVE

Short telomeres and genomic DNA damage are causes of cellular senescence in dental follicle cells (DFCs).

DESIGN

This study examined the role of the DNA damage response (DDR) during cellular senescence of DFCs by β-galactosidase activity and DNA damage by comet assay. Expression of genes/proteins was determined by Western Blots and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, while glycolysis was enzymatically estimated. Cell cycle stages and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were investigated by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

During the induction of cellular senescence gene expression of DDR genes were down-regulated, while DNA double-strand breaks occurred at the same time. Furthermore, inhibition of DNA protein kinase (DNA-PK) reduced senescence and ROS, both of which are associated with cellular senescence. In contrast, while these data suggest that inhibition of DDR is associated with the induction of cellular senescence, inhibition of DNA-PK did not result in renewal of DFCs, as inhibition resulted in typical features of depleted cells such as increased cell size and reduced cell proliferation rate. DNA-PK repression inhibited both osteogenic differentiation potential and glycolysis, which are typical features of cellular exhaustion. Moreover, DNA-PK affects cellular senescence via activation of AKT1 (protein kinase B).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that DNA-PK promotes cellular senescence, but DFCs may control the induction of cellular senescence via down-regulation of DDR genes. However, we also showed that inhibition of DNA-PK cannot renew senescent DFCs.

Ginsenoside Rg2 Promotes the Proliferation and Stemness Maintenance of Porcine Mesenchymal Stem Cells through Autophagy Induction

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be used as a cell source for cultivated meat production due to their adipose differentiation potential, but MSCs lose their stemness and undergo replicative senescence during expansion in vitro. Autophagy is an important mechanism for senescent cells to remove toxic substances. However, the role of autophagy in the replicative senescence of MSCs is controversial. Here, we evaluated the changes in autophagy in porcine MSCs (pMSCs) during long-term culture in vitro and identified a natural phytochemical, ginsenoside Rg2, that could stimulate pMSC proliferation. First, some typical senescence characteristics were observed in aged pMSCs, including decreased EdU-positive cells, increased senescence-associated beta-galactosidase activity, declined stemness-associated marker OCT4 expression, and enhanced P53 expression. Importantly, autophagic flux was impaired in aged pMSCs, suggesting deficient substrate clearance in aged pMSCs. Rg2 was found to promote the proliferation of pMSCs using MTT assay and EdU staining. In addition, Rg2 inhibited D-galactose-induced senescence and oxidative stress in pMSCs. Rg2 increased autophagic activity via the AMPK signaling pathway. Furthermore, long-term culture with Rg2 promoted the proliferation, inhibited the replicative senescence, and maintained the stemness of pMSCs. These results provide a potential strategy for porcine MSC expansion in vitro.

Effects of Ginsenoside Rg1 on the Biological Behavior of Human Amnion-Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells (hAD-MSCs)

Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) is purified from ginseng with various pharmacological effects, which might facilitate the biological behavior of human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (hAD-MSCs). This study is aimed at investigating the effects of Rg1 on the biological behavior, such as viability, proliferation, apoptosis, senescence, migration, and paracrine, of hAD-MSCs. hAD-MSCs were isolated from human amnions. The effects of Rg1 on the viability, proliferation, apoptosis, senescence, migration, and paracrine of hAD-MSCs were detected by CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry, SA-β-Gal staining, wound healing, and ELISA assays, respectively. The protein expression levels were detected by western blot. Cell cycle distribution was evaluated using flow cytometry. We found that Rg1 promoted hAD-MSC cycle progression from G0/G1 to S and G2/M phases and significantly increased hAD-MSC proliferation rate. Rg1 activated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and significantly upregulated the expressions of cyclin D, cyclin E, CDK4, and CDK2 in hAD-MSCs. Inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling significantly downregulated the expressions of cyclin D, cyclin E, CDK4, and CDK2, prevented cell cycle progression, and reduced hAD-MSC proliferation induced by Rg1. hAD-MSC senescence rate was significantly increased by D-galactose, while the elevated hAD-MSC senescence rate induced by D-galactose was significantly decreased by Rg1 treatment. D-galactose significantly induced the expressions of senescence markers, p16^INK4a, p14^ARF, p21^CIP1, and p53 in hAD-MSCs, while Rg1 significantly reduced the expressions of those markers induced by D-galactose in hAD-MSCs. Rg1 significantly promoted the secretion of IGF-I in hAD-MSCs. Rg1 reduced the hAD-MSC apoptosis rate. However, the difference was not significant. Rg1 had no influence on hAD-MSC migration. Altogether, our results demonstrate that Rg1 can promote the viability, proliferation, and paracrine and relieve the senescence of hAD-MSCs. PI3K/AKT signaling pathway is involved in the promotive effect of Rg1 on hAD-MSC proliferation. The protective effect of Rg1 on hAD-MSC senescence may be achieved via the downregulation of p16^INK4A and p53/p21^CIP1 pathway.

How ginseng regulates autophagy: Insights from multistep process

BACKGROUND

Although autophagy is a recognized contributor to the pathogenesis of human diseases, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are the only two FDA-approved autophagy inhibitors to date. Emerging evidence has revealed the potential therapeutic benefits of various extracts and active compounds isolated from ginseng, especially ginsenosides and their derivatives, by mediating autophagy. Mechanistically, active components from ginseng mediate key regulators in the multistep processes of autophagy, namely, initiation, autophagosome biogenesis and cargo degradation.

AIM OF REVIEW

To date, a review that systematically described the relationship between ginseng and autophagy is still lacking. Breakthroughs in finding the key players in ginseng-autophagy regulation will be a promising research area, and will provide positive insights into the development of new drugs based on ginseng and autophagy.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

Here, we comprehensively summarized the critical roles of ginseng-regulated autophagy in treating diseases, including cancers, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and neurotoxicity. The dual effects of the autophagy response in certain diseases are worthy of note; thus, we highlight the complex impacts of both ginseng-induced and ginseng-inhibited autophagy. Moreover, autophagy and apoptosis are controlled by multiple common upstream signals, cross-regulate each other and affect certain diseases, especially cancers. Therefore, this review also discusses the cross-signal transduction pathways underlying the molecular mechanisms and interaction between ginseng-regulated autophagy and apoptosis.

Inhibitory effects and molecular mechanisms of ginsenoside Rg1 on the senescence of hematopoietic stem cells

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) produce all blood cell lineages and maintain life-long hematopoiesis. However, the self-renewal ability and differentiation capacity of HSCs reduces with age. The senescence of HSCs can lead to the imbalance of hematopoietic homeostasis and immune disorder and induce a variety of age-related diseases. Recent studies have shown that therapeutic interventions targeting the senescence of HSCs may prevent disease progression. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1), extracted from roots or stems of ginseng, has beneficial antiaging activities. It has been reported that Rg1 can inhibit the senescence of HSCs. Here, we reviewed recent advances of Rg1 in inhibiting the senescence of HSCs and discussed related molecular mechanisms. Bioinformatics and network databases have been widely applied to drug discoveries. Here, we predicted potential antiaging targets of Rg1 explored by bioinformatic methods, which may help discover new targets of Rg1 and provide novel strategies for delaying the aging process of HSCs.

Integrating network pharmacology, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and molecular docking to investigate the effect and mechanism of Chuanxiong Renshen decoction against Alzheimer's disease

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Chuanxiong Renshen decoction (CRD) is a traditional Chinese medicine compound used to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the effects and active ingredients of CRD and its mechanism have not been clarified. We aimed to determine the neuroprotective effects of CRD in a triple-transgenic mouse model of AD (3 × Tg-AD) and investigate the possible active ingredients and their mechanisms.

METHODS

Morris water maze (MWM) tests were used to determine the protective effect of CRD on learning and memory ability. Afterward, we used brain tissue staining, immunofluorescent staining and western blotting to detect the neuroprotective effects of CRD. Ultraperformance liquid-chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was applied to determine the ingredients of CRD, and the potential AD targets were obtained from DisGeNET and the GeneCards database. The protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network was built with the additional use of STRING 11.0. Metascape was used in the pathway enrichment analysis. Discovery Studio 2016 (DS) software was used to analyze the binding ability of CRD and AD-related genes. Finally, we verified the regulatory effect of CRD on the predicted core targets EGFR and CASP3 by western blotting.

RESULTS

Our study indicated that CRD can significantly improve learning and memory, reduce the expression of Aβ and protect neurons. A total of 95 ingredients were identified in the CRD. Then, 25 ingredients were identified in serum, and 5 ingredients were identified in the brain tissue homogenate. PPI network analysis identified CASP3, EGFR, APP, CNR1, HIF1A, PTGS2 and MTOR as hub targets. KEGG and GO analyses revealed that the TNF signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway were enriched in multiple targets. The results of molecular docking proved that the binding of the ingredients with potential key targets was excellent. The western blotting results showed that CRD could significantly reduce the expression of CASP3 and EGFR in the hippocampus of 3 × Tg-AD mice. Combined with literature analysis, we assumed the neuroprotective effect of CRD on AD may occur through regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

CRD significantly alleviated injury in 3 × Tg-AD mice. The possible active ingredients are ferulic acid, rutin, ginsenoside Rg1 and panaxydol. The therapeutic effect of CRD on AD is achieved through the downregulation of CASP3 and EGFR. The neuroprotective effect of CRD on AD may occur through regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway.

Biometrics Data Visualization of Ginsenosides in Anticancer Investigations

Ginsenoside extracts have been shown to have anticancer effects by a growing number of studies and have thus become a hot topic in cancer research. Our study used VOSviewer and CiteSpace softwares to conduct a bibliometric approach to co-citation and co-occurrence analysis of countries, institutions, authors, references, and keywords in the field of cancer research to investigate the current status and trends of ginsenosides research in cancer. The web of science core collection (WoSCC) contained a total of 1102 papers. China made the most contributions in this area, with the most publications (742, 67.3%), and collaborated closely with Korea and the USA. The Journal of Ginseng Research, with the most total citations (1607) and an IF of 6.06, is the leading journal in the field of ginsenoside and cancer research, publishing high quality articles. Saponin and its extracts inhibit oxidative stress, promote apoptosis, and inhibits chemotherapy resistance by ginsenosides, all of which are hot research areas in this field. In the coming years, it is expected that the combination of ginsenosides and nanoparticles, in-depth mechanisms of cancer inhibition, and targeted therapy will receive widespread attention.

Ginsenosides: Allies of gastrointestinal tumor immunotherapy

In the past decade, immunotherapy has been the most promising treatment for gastrointestinal tumors. But the low response rate and drug resistance remain major concerns. It is therefore imperative to develop adjuvant therapies to increase the effectiveness of immunotherapy and prevent drug resistance. Ginseng has been used in Traditional Chinese medicine as a natural immune booster for thousands of years. The active components of ginseng, ginsenosides, have played an essential role in tumor treatment for decades and are candidates for anti-tumor adjuvant therapy. They are hypothesized to cooperate with immunotherapy drugs to improve the curative effect and reduce tumor resistance and adverse reactions. This review summarizes the research into the use of ginsenosides in immunotherapy of gastrointestinal tumors and discusses potential future applications.

Ginsenoside Rg1 Reduces Oxidative Stress Via Nrf2 Activation to Regulate Age-Related Mesenchymal Stem Cells Fate Switch Between Osteoblasts and Adipocytes

Background

An important feature of aging cells is the gradual loss of physiological integrity. As aging progresses, MSCs change preferring to differentiate toward adipocytes rather than osteoblasts. Oxidative stress accumulation is an important factor in age-related bone loss. Many experiments have demonstrated the good therapeutic effect of Ginsenoside (Rg1) on oxidative stress injury. In this study, we investigated the effect of Rg1 on the osteogenic-adipogenic differentiation balance of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSC).

Objective

To analyze the potential application value of Rg1 in the treatment of senile osteoporosis.

Methods

BMMSCs were isolated from healthy donors of different ages and identified based on isotype and by multi-differentiation induction. Rg1 was used to treat BMMSCs, The differentiation propensity was analyzed by induction of differentiation assay. Antioxidant capacity of BMMSCs as measured by oxidative stress product assay Related mechanism studies were confirmed by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunofluorescence, western blotting, and inhibitor treatment. Moreover, Observation of the effects of Rg1 on aging BMMSCs under in vivo conditions by treatment of aged mice with Rg1 injections.

Results

Rg1 treatment rescued age-induced switch of BMMSCs differentiation fate in vitro. In elderly people, Rg1 markedly increased osteogenic differentiation of BMMSCs by decreasing oxidative stress, while inhibiting adipogenic differentiation. However, this effect was abolished in BMMSCs by an Nrf2-inhibitor. Notably, aging mice showed a reduction in adipocyte distribution in the bone marrow and a decrease in oxidative stress products after a 3-month period of Rg1 treatment.

Conclusion

We have uncovered a novel function for Rg1 that involves attenuating bone loss via Nrf2 antioxidant signaling, which in turn may potentially be utilized as a therapeutic agent for improving osteogenic differentiation in aging BMMSCs.

Ginsenoside Rg1 Inhibits STAT3 Expression by miR-15b-5p to Attenuate Lung Injury in Mice with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-Associated Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been regarded as a critical risk factor for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). Ginsenoside Rg1 has been identified as a potential therapeutic agent for T2DM by suppressing the inflammatory response. However, the effect of Rg1 on T2DM-associated PTB has not been reported. In this study, we aimed to explore the function of Rg1 in the regulation of T2DM-associated PTB. We established a T2DM-associated PTB mouse model and found that the fibrosis of lung tissues was inhibited by Rg1 in T2DM-associated PTB mice. The lung injury of T2DM-associated PTB mice was repressed by Rg1. Moreover, the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β in the lung tissues and serum were decreased by Rg1 in T2DM-associated PTB mice. The treatment with Rg1 inhibited the levels of free fatty acid and enhanced the expression of miR-15b-5p in lung tissues of T2DM-associated PTB mice. MiR-15b-5p targeted and inhibited the STAT3 expression. The expression of STAT3 was downregulated by Rg1, while the inhibition of miR-15b-5p reversed the downregulation. The expression of miR-15b-5p was reduced, but the expression of STAT3 was upregulated in the lung tissues of T2DM-associated PTB mice. We validated that miR-15b-5p attenuated inflammation and lung injury in the T2DM-associated PTB mouse model. The overexpression of STAT3 or the suppression of miR-15b-5p restored lung fibrosis and injury inhibited by Rg1 in T2DM-associated PTB mice. Meanwhile, the Rg1-repressed levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β were enhanced by the overexpression of STAT3 or the suppression of miR-15b-5p. In addition, the levels of free fatty acid repressed by Rg1 were reversed by STAT3 overexpression and miR-15b-5p inhibition. Thus, we conclude that ginsenoside Rg1 inhibits the STAT3 expression by miR-15b-5p to attenuate lung injury in mice with type 2 diabetes mellitus-associated pulmonary tuberculosis.

Cellular senescence: the good, the bad and the unknown

Cellular senescence is a ubiquitous process with roles in tissue remodelling, including wound repair and embryogenesis. However, prolonged senescence can be maladaptive, leading to cancer development and age-related diseases. Cellular senescence involves cell-cycle arrest and the release of inflammatory cytokines with autocrine, paracrine and endocrine activities. Senescent cells also exhibit morphological alterations, including flattened cell bodies, vacuolization and granularity in the cytoplasm and abnormal organelles. Several biomarkers of cellular senescence have been identified, including SA-βgal, p16 and p21; however, few markers have high sensitivity and specificity. In addition to driving ageing, senescence of immune and parenchymal cells contributes to the development of a variety of diseases and metabolic disorders. In the kidney, senescence might have beneficial roles during development and recovery from injury, but can also contribute to the progression of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. Therapies that target senescence, including senolytic and senomorphic drugs, stem cell therapies and other interventions, have been shown to extend lifespan and reduce tissue injury in various animal models. Early clinical trials confirm that senotherapeutic approaches could be beneficial in human disease. However, larger clinical trials are needed to translate these approaches to patient care.

Revealing the Therapeutic Targets and Mechanism of Ginsenoside Rg1 for Liver Damage Related to Anti-Oxidative Stress Using Proteomic Analysis

Ginsenoside Rg1 is an important active substance isolated from the root of ginseng. In previous studies, Rg1 has shown excellent therapeutic effects in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic modulation. However, the therapeutic targets of Rg1 are still unknown. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of Rg1 on oxidative stress-related liver damage. The oxidative stress damage model was achieved by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactose (D-gal) for 42 consecutive days in C57BL/6J mice. Rg1 treatment started on Day 16. Body weight, liver weight, degree of hepatic oxidative stress damage, serum lipid levels, and hepatic lipid and glucose metabolism were measured. Proteomics analysis was used to measure liver protein expression. The differential expression proteins were analyzed with bioinformatics. The results showed that Rg1 treatment attenuated liver damage from oxidative stress, reduced hepatic fat accumulation, promoted hepatic glycogen synthesis, and attenuated peripheral blood low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol (CHO), and triglycerides (TG) levels. Proteomic analysis suggested that Rg1 may regulate hepatocyte metabolism through ECM-Receptor, the PI3K-AKT pathway. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) may be the key protein. In conclusion, this study provides an experimental basis for further clarifying the specific mechanism of Rg1 in the treatment of oxidative stress damage-related liver disease.

Dietary Supplements and Natural Products: An Update on Their Clinical Effectiveness and Molecular Mechanisms of Action During Accelerated Biological Aging

Accelerated biological aging, which involves the gradual decline of organ or tissue functions and the distortion of physiological processes, underlies several human diseases. Away from the earlier free radical concept, telomere attrition, cellular senescence, proteostasis loss, mitochondrial dysfunction, stem cell exhaustion, and epigenetic and genomic alterations have emerged as biological hallmarks of aging. Moreover, nutrient-sensing metabolic pathways are critical to an organism's ability to sense and respond to nutrient levels. Pharmaceutical, genetic, and nutritional interventions reverting physiological declines by targeting nutrient-sensing metabolic pathways can promote healthy aging and increase lifespan. On this basis, biological aging hallmarks and nutrient-sensing dependent and independent pathways represent evolving drug targets for many age-linked diseases. Here, we discuss and update the scientific community on contemporary advances in how dietary supplements and natural products beneficially revert accelerated biological aging processes to retrograde human aging and age-dependent human diseases, both from the clinical and preclinical studies point-of-view. Overall, our review suggests that dietary/natural products increase healthspan-rather than lifespan-effectively minimizing the period of frailty at the end of life. However, real-world setting clinical trials and basic studies on dietary supplements and natural products are further required to decisively demonstrate whether dietary/natural products could promote human lifespan.