Proteomic analysis of Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer)

Identification of PgRg1-3 Gene for Ginsenoside Rg1 Biosynthesis as Revealed by Combining Genome-Wide Association Study and Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis of Jilin Ginseng Core Collection

Ginseng, an important medicinal plant, is characterized by its main active component, ginsenosides. Among more than 40 ginsenosides, Rg1 is one of the ginsenosides used for measuring the quality of ginseng. Therefore, the identification and characterization of genes for Rg1 biosynthesis are important to elucidate the molecular basis of Rg1 biosynthesis. In this study, we utilized 39,327 SNPs and the corresponding Rg1 content from 344 core ginseng cultivars from Jilin Province. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) combining weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), SNP-Rg1 content association analysis, and gene co-expression network analysis; three candidate Rg1 genes (PgRg1-1, PgRg1-2, and PgRg1-3) and one crucial candidate gene (PgRg1-3) were identified. Functional validation of PgRg1-3 was performed using methyl jasmonate (MeJA) regulation and RNAi, confirming that this gene regulates Rg1 biosynthesis. The spatial-temporal expression patterns of the PgRg1-3 gene and known key enzyme genes involved in ginsenoside biosynthesis differ. Furthermore, variations in their networks have a significant impact on Rg1 biosynthesis. This study established an accurate and efficient method for identifying candidate genes, cloned a novel gene controlling Rg1 biosynthesis, and identified 73 SNPs significantly associated with Rg1 content. This provides genetic resources and effective tools for further exploring the molecular mechanisms of Rg1 biosynthesis and molecular breeding.

Improved performance of proteomic characterization for Panax ginseng by strong cation exchange extraction and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis

Panax ginseng is a precious and ancient medicinal plant. The completion of its genome sequencing has laid the foundation for the study of proteome and peptidome. However, the high abundance of secondary metabolites in ginseng reduces the identification efficiency of proteins and peptides in mass spectrometry. In this report, strong cation exchange pretreatment was carried out to eliminate the interference of impurities. Based on the charge separation of proteolytic peptides and metabolites, the sensitivity of mass spectrometry detection was greatly improved. After pretreatment, 2322 and 2685 proteins were identified from the root and stem leaf extract. Further, the ginseng peptidome was analyzed based on this optimized strategy, where 970 and 653 endogenous peptides were identified from root and stem leaf extract, respectively. Functional analysis of proteins and endogenous peptides provided valuable information on the biological activities, metabolic processes, and ginsenoside biosynthesis pathways of ginseng.

Comprehensive fecal metabolomics and gut microbiota for the evaluation of the mechanism of Panax Ginseng in the treatment of Qi-deficiency liver cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qi deficiency liver cancer (QDLC) is an important part of liver cancer research in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In the course of its treatment, Panax ginseng is often selected as the main Chinese herbal medicine, and its function has special significance in the tumor treatment of Qi deficiency constitution. However, its mechanism is not clear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The research tried to evaluate the mechanism of Panax ginseng in the treatment of QDLC through fecal metabonomics and gut microbiota on the basis of previous pharmacodynamic evaluation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, biomarkers and related metabolic pathways were screened and identified by metabonomics and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. Then, 16S rRNA sequencing technique was used to investigate the composition, β diversity and key differences of gut microbiota. Finally, the relationship among phenotypes, gut microbiota and fecal metabolites was comprehensively analyzed by spearman correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

31 pharmacodynamic potential biomarkers and 20 synergistic potential biomarkers of effective parts of Panax ginseng on QDLC were screened and identified by fecal metabonomics. And then, 6 major metabolic pathways were searched, including bile acid biosynthesis, unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis, tryptophan metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, vitamin B6 metabolism. In the study of gut microbiota, at the genus level, 25 species of bacteria with significant differences of effective parts on QDLC and 23 species of bacteria with significant differences of synergistic action of ginsenosides and polysaccharides were screened. In addition, Spearman correlation analysis showed that there was a complex potential relationship among phenotype, gut microbiota and fecal metabolites during the development of QDLC and Panax ginseng intervention, which was mainly reflected in the close potential relationship between bacteria and fecal metabolites such as bile acids, unsaturated fatty acids and indole compounds.

CONCLUSION

Through the changes of fecal endogenous metabolites and intestinal bacteria, the mechanism of Panax ginseng on QDLC were preliminarily clarified.

Optimization of Protein Isolation and Label-Free Quantitative Proteomic Analysis in Four Different Tissues of Korean Ginseng

Korean ginseng is one of the most valuable medicinal plants worldwide. However, our understanding of ginseng proteomics is largely limited due to difficulties in the extraction and resolution of ginseng proteins because of the presence of natural contaminants such as polysaccharides, phenols, and glycosides. Here, we compared four different protein extraction methods, namely, TCA/acetone, TCA/acetone-MeOH/chloroform, phenol-TCA/acetone, and phenol-MeOH/chloroform methods. The TCA/acetone-MeOH/chloroform method displayed the highest extraction efficiency, and thus it was used for the comparative proteome profiling of leaf, root, shoot, and fruit by a label-free quantitative proteomics approach. This approach led to the identification of 2604 significantly modulated proteins among four tissues. We could pinpoint differential pathways and proteins associated with ginsenoside biosynthesis, including the methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway, the mevalonate (MVA) pathway, UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs), and oxidoreductases (CYP450s). The current study reports an efficient and reproducible method for the isolation of proteins from a wide range of ginseng tissues and provides a detailed organ-based proteome map and a more comprehensive view of enzymatic alterations in ginsenoside biosynthesis.

Ginseng Omics for Ginsenoside Biosynthesis

Ginseng, also known as the king of herbs, has been regarded as an important traditional medicine for several millennia. Ginsenosides, a group of triterpenoid saponins, have been characterized as bioactive compounds of ginseng. The complexity of ginsenosides hindered ginseng research and development both in cultivation and clinical research. Therefore, deciphering the ginsenoside biosynthesis pathway has been a focus of interest for researchers worldwide. The new emergence of biological research tools consisting of omics and bioinformatic tools or computational biology tools are the research trend in the new century. Ginseng is one of the main subjects analyzed using these new quantification tools, including tools of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. Here, we review the current progress of ginseng omics research and provide results for the ginsenoside biosynthesis pathway. Organization and expression of the entire pathway, including the upstream MVA pathway, the cyclization of ginsenoside precursors, and the glycosylation process, are illustrated. Regulatory gene families such as transcriptional factors and transporters are also discussed in this review.

Protocol Optimization of Proteomic Analysis of Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer)

The benefits of ginseng have been mainly attributed to its triterpenoids, called ginsenosides. Recent genome sequencing of the Panax ginseng has paved the way for in-depth proteomic studies of this medicinal plant. The current study was conducted to deepen the proteomic information on the root proteome of Korean ginseng. Proteomic workflow was optimized by testing two different strategies, characterized by the phenol extraction procedure, the presence or the absence of SDS-PAGE fractionation step, and nano-scale liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometry (nLC-MS/MS) analysis. The results highlighted an evident improvement of proteome extraction by the combination of phenol extraction with SDS-PAGE before the nLC-MS/MS analysis. In addition, a dramatic impact of the steaming process (the treatment to produce red ginseng from ginseng) on protein properties was observed. Overall, the analyses of Korean ginseng permitted the characterization of a total of 2412 proteins. A large number of identified proteins belonged to the functional categories of protein and carbon/energy metabolism (22.4% and 14.6%, respectively). The primary and secondary metabolisms are major metabolic pathways, which emerged from the proteomic analysis. In addition, a large number of proteins known to play an important role in response to (a)biotic stresses were also identified. The current proteomic study not only confirmed the previous transcriptomic and proteomic reports but also extended proteomic information, including the main metabolic pathways involved in Korean ginseng.

Quinetides: diverse posttranslational modified peptides of ribonuclease-like storage protein from Panax quinquefolius as markers for differentiating ginseng species

Background

Peptides have diverse and important physiological roles in plants and are ideal markers for species identification. It is unclear whether there are specific peptides in Panax quinquefolius L. (PQ). The aims of this study were to identify Quinetides, a series of diverse posttranslational modified native peptides of the ribonuclease-like storage protein (ginseng major protein), from PQ to explore novel peptide markers and develop a new method to distinguish PQ from Panax ginseng.

Methods

We used different fragmentation modes in the LTQ Orbitrap analysis to identify the enriched Quinetide targets of PQ, and we discovered Quinetide markers of PQ and P. ginseng using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis. These "peptide markers" were validated by simultaneously monitoring Rf and F11 as standard ginsenosides.

Results

We discovered 100 Quinetides of PQ with various post-translational modifications (PTMs), including a series of glycopeptides, all of which originated from the protein ginseng major protein. We effectively distinguished PQ from P. ginseng using new "peptide markers." Four unique peptides (Quinetides TP6 and TP7 as markers of PQ and Quinetides TP8 and TP9 as markers of P. ginseng) and their associated glycosylation products were discovered in PQ and P. ginseng.

Conclusion

We provide specific information on PQ peptides and propose the clinical application of peptide markers to distinguish PQ from P. ginseng.

Spatial protein expression of Panax ginseng by in-depth proteomic analysis for ginsenoside biosynthesis and transportation

Background

Panax ginseng, as one of the most widely used herbal medicines worldwide, has been studied comprehensively in terms of the chemical components and pharmacology. The proteins from ginseng are also of great importance for both nutrition value and the mechanism of secondary metabolites. However, the proteomic studies are less reported in the absence of the genome information. With the completion of ginseng genome sequencing, the proteome profiling has become available for the functional study of ginseng protein components.

Methods

We optimized the protein extraction process systematically by using SDS-PAGE and one-dimensional liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. The extracted proteins were then analyzed by two-dimensional chromatography separation and cutting-edge mass spectrometry technique.

Results

A total of 2,732 and 3,608 proteins were identified from ginseng root and cauline leaf, respectively, which was the largest data set reported so far. Only around 50% protein overlapped between the cauline leaf and root tissue parts because of the function assignment for plant growing. Further gene ontology and KEGG pathway revealed the distinguish difference between ginseng root and leaf, which accounts for the photosynthesis and metabolic process. With in-deep analysis of functional proteins related to ginsenoside synthesis, we interestingly found the cytochrome P450 and UDP-glycosyltransferase expression extensively in cauline leaf but not in the root, indicating that the post glucoside synthesis of ginsenosides might be carried out when growing and then transported to the root at withering.

Conclusion

The systematically proteome analysis of Panax ginseng will provide us comprehensive understanding of ginsenoside synthesis and guidance for artificial cultivation.

A ROS-mediated lysosomal-mitochondrial pathway is induced by ginsenoside Rh2 in hepatoma HepG2 cells

Ginsenoside Rh2 (GRh2), isolated from Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, has been proven as an anticancer compound both in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, we investigated the role of the lysosomes during the apoptosis of HepG2 cells induced by GRh2. The results showed that GRh2 significantly induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in the HepG2 cells, which consequently resulted in early lysosomal membrane permeabilization with the release of cathepsin B (Cat B) to the cytosol. Western blot analysis showed that the released Cat B in the cytosol contributed to Bid cleavage. Subsequently mitochondrial damage was observed in the HepG2 cells. Interestingly, when the HepG2 cells were pre-treated with N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) for 1 h, which inhibited ROS generation before being exposed to GRh2, the permeabilization of lysosomal membranes and the levels of Cat B in the cytosol were down-regulated. Moreover, mitochondrial damage was alleviated when the HepG2 cells were pre-treated with leupeptin (Leu). From the above results, it could be concluded that GRh2 induced apoptosis of the HepG2 cells through accumulation of ROS and activation of the lysosomal-mitochondrial apoptotic pathway involving the release of Cat B.

The Effect of Red Ginseng Extract Intake on Ischemic Flaps

Red ginseng is well known for its angiogenic effects and its effect of increasing expression of vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), but little experimental evidence has been published. In this study, we examined the effect of red ginseng using an ischemic flap model. Twenty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups of 10. One group drank red ginseng solution from 7 days prior to surgery to 7 days after, whereas the other group drank distilled water. We created a local flap on the back of each rat. We analyzed the surviving area of the flap for 10 days after surgery and measured the blood flow of the flap. Ten days after the operation, CD31-positive vessels and VEGF expression were examined by immunohistochemistry. The percentages of surviving areas of the flap were 76 ± 3% for the experimental group and 39 ± 5% for the control group (P = 0.0002). Blood flow in the experimental group increased for 10 days after the surgery. The number of newly generated capillaries in the experimental group was 14.0 ± 3.5, which was significantly higher than 5.7 ± 1.9 in the control group. The expression of VEGF in the experimental group was significantly higher than in the control group (p = 0.0003). Administration of red ginseng extract increases the survival of ischemic flaps via angiogenesis and elevated blood flow. Further clinical studies are warranted to apply the effect shown in this current investigation to various ischemic conditions.

20(S)-ginsenoside Rh2 inhibits the proliferation and induces the apoptosis of KG-1a cells through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Previous research has shown that total saponins of Panax ginseng (TSPG) and other ginsenoside monomers inhibit the proliferation of leukemia cells. However, the effect has not been compared among them. Cell viability was determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, and ultra-structural characteristics were observed under transmission electron microscopy. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry (FCM). Real-time fluorescence quantitative‑PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to measure the expression of β-catenin, TCF4, cyclin D1 and NF-κBp65. β-catenin/TCF4 target gene transcription were observed by ChIP-PCR assay. We found that 20(S)-ginsenoside Rh2 [(S)Rh2] inhibited the proliferation of KG-1a cells more efficiently than the other monomers. Moreover, (S)Rh2 arrested KG-1a cells in the G0/G1 phase and induced apoptosis. In addition, the levels of β-catenin, TCF4, cyclin D1 mRNA and protein were decreased. The ChIP-PCR showed that (S)Rh2 downregulated the transcription of β-catenin/TCF4 target genes, such as cyclin D1 and c-myc. These results indicated that (S)Rh2 induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, demonstrating its potential as a chemotherapeutic agent for leukemia therapy.

Practical application of DNA markers for high-throughput authentication of Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius from commercial ginseng products

Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) are widely used medicinal plants with similar morphology but different medicinal efficacy. Roots, flowers, and processed products of Korean and American ginseng can be difficult to differentiate from each other, leading to illegal trade in which one species is sold as the other. This study was carried out to develop convenient and reliable chloroplast genome-derived DNA markers for authentication of Korean and American ginseng in commercial processed products. One codominant marker could reproducibly identify both species and intentional mixtures of the two species. We further developed a set of species-unique dominant DNA markers. Each species-specific dominant marker could detect 1% cross contamination with other species by low resolution agarose gel electrophoresis or quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Both markers were successfully applied to evaluate the original species from various processed ginseng products purchased from markets in Korea and China. We believe that high-throughput application of this marker system will eradicate illegal trade and promote confident marketing for both species to increase the value of Korean as well as American ginseng in Korea and worldwide.

Proteomic profiling of Stemona alkaloids production response to chitosan elicitor

The study purposed to investigate the protein expression of Stemona alkaloids biosynthesis response to chitosan elicitor by 2D gel electrophoresis. The total proteins extraction of Stemona roots were performed for comparison with the control and chitosan treatments. It was found that 15 out of 150 protein spots exhibited different expression between control and chitosan culture treatment. The identified 15 protein spots were subjected to amino acid sequencing and two proteins appeared interesting for examining Stemona alkaloids biosynthesis. After treated with chitosan, glutathione S-transferase became down-regulated while heat shock protein up-regulated in relation to the control treatment. These proteins may play roles in alkaloids biosynthesis via plant defense metabolism from the presumptions that chitosan might weaken the detoxifying function of glutathione S-transferase, then, heat shock protein is probably produced to signal for tissue protection mechanism. Thus, Stemona alkaloids may be responsive to this stress.

Proteomic changes in different growth periods of ginseng roots

For the first time, proteomics and biochemical variables have been employed to unravel the growth strategies for the different root growth periods of ginseng (Panax ginseng CA May., Araliaceae). Enzymatic activities and cellular contents, except for starch, related to defence and metabolism were significantly increased in the slow-growth period but decreased in the fast-growth period. Proteomic characterisation by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) showed 83 differentially expressed spots; 62 spots were up-regulated and 21 spots were down-regulated in the slow-growth period when compared to the fast-growth period. The identification of these spots indicated that the major groups of differential proteins were associated with energy metabolism (37%) and defence (17%), which was consistent with the changes observed in the biochemical measurements. These results clearly demonstrate that ginseng stores energy during its fast-growth period to promote root elongation, whereas it expends energy to improve the synthesis of secondary metabolites and stress resistance during its slow-growth period. The levels of many proteins were changed during the conversion period from fast to slow growth, providing new insights into ginseng proteome evolution. The proposed hypothetical model explains the interaction of metabolic proteins associated with the growth strategies of ginseng.

Ginsenoside Rh2 induces human hepatoma cell apoptosisvia bax/bak triggered cytochrome C release and caspase-9/caspase-8 activation

Ginsenoside Rh2 (G-Rh2) has been shown to induce apoptotic cell death in a variety of cancer cells. However, the details of the signal transduction cascade involved in G-Rh2-induced cell death is unclear. In this manuscript we elucidate the molecular mechanism of G-Rh2-induced apoptosis in human hepatoma SK-HEP-1 cells by demonstrating that G-Rh2 causes rapid and dramatic translocation of both Bak and Bax, which subsequently triggers mitochondrial cytochrome c release and consequent caspase activation. Interestingly, siRNA-based gene inactivation of caspase-8 effectively delays caspase-9 activation and apoptosis induced by G-Rh2, indicating that caspase-8 also plays an important role in the G-Rh2-induced apoptosis program. Taken together, our results indicate that G-Rh2 employs a multi pro-apoptotic pathway to execute cancer cell death, suggesting a potential role for G-Rh2 as a powerful chemotherapeutic agent.

Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) ameliorates type 1 diabetes and restores immune cell compartments

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Historical records reveal that in traditional medicine, a disease similar to diabetes was treated with ginseng. Korean red ginseng has been considered beneficial as a dietary supplement for its anti-diabetic potential.

AIM

This study was designed to investigate the prophylactic potential of Korean red ginseng (KRG) extract (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer Radix Rubra) in a well-established mouse model of Type 1 diabetes (T1D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The prophylactic effect of KRG extract was evaluated in mice fed with KRG extract for two weeks prior to induction of diabetes by streptozotocin (STZ) administration. Glucose levels and glucose challenge test results of KRG-treated diabetic mice were compared to those of untreated diabetic mice and healthy control mice. Examination of the immune compartments in lymphoid organs and immunohistochemical staining of pancreas for islet cell morphology and insulin producing beta cells were performed.

RESULTS

KRG extract significantly lowered blood glucose levels to an average of 250mg/dl from 350mg/dl and improved glucose challenge testing when applied as prophylaxis. Histological findings indicated that KRG extract protected against STZ-induced destruction of pancreatic tissue and restored insulin secretion. Strikingly, this effect was accompanied by restoration of lymphocytes in secondary lymphoid organs, suggesting that KRG extract facilitated immune homeostasis.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report to demonstrate the prophylactic function of KRG extract in ameliorating the hyperglycemia of T1D. Immune compartments of diabetic mice were found to be preserved in KRG-treated mice suggesting that Korean red ginseng may benefit T1D patients, not only for its hypoglycemic but also for its immunomodulatory effects.

Study on the interactions between ginsenosides and lysozyme under acidic condition by ESI-MS and molecular docking

In order to study the different effects of ginsenosides with similar structures, research on interactions between ginsenoside Rg1, Re and lysozyme was carried out by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and molecular docking. The 1:1 and 2:1 noncovalent complexes of ginsenosides and lysozyme were observed in the mass spectra and the dissociation constants for them were directly calculated based on peak intensities of lysozyme and its noncovalent complexes with ginsenosides. The results showed that the 1:1 complex of ginsenoside Rg1 and lysozyme was more stable than that of ginsenoside Re and lysozyme. As the acidity increased, the stabilities of the 1:1 complexes of Rg1, Re and lysozyme both decreased. Interestingly, as the acidity increased, the stability of the 2:1 complex of Rg1 and lysozyme increased while that of Re decreased. From the result of molecular docking, ginsenosides interacted with the active sites of lysozyme. And the stability of the complexes could be affected by the conformation changes of lysozyme as acidity increased.

Energy Drinks: An Assessment of Their Market Size, Consumer Demographics, Ingredient Profile, Functionality, and Regulations in the United States

  The consumption of energy drinks is rapidly increasing, as demonstrated by their large market growth. The targeted demographic group is teenagers, young adults, 18 to 34 y old; although expansion into nontraditional markets is also occurring. It is claimed that energy drinks can offer an increased energy boost related to their ingredient profile of caffeine, taurine, herbal extracts, and vitamins. Research suggests that energy drink formulations, in addition to increasing energy utilization, may also improve mood, enhance physical endurance, reduce mental fatigue, and increase reaction time. However, in most cases, the corresponding mechanisms of action are not clear. In addition, concerns have been raised over their safety and with a currently weak regulatory environment, efforts need to be made to ensure consumer safety. The objective of this article is to review the current U.S. energy drink market with emphasis on its market size, target demographic, active ingredients, potential benefits, safety, and regulations.

Investigation of the interactions between ginsenosides and amino acids by mass spectrometry and theoretical chemistry

In order to evaluate the essence of the interactions of ginsenosides and proteins which are composed by alpha-amino acids, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry was employed to study the noncovalent interactions between ginsenosides (Rb(2), Rb(3), Re, Rg(1) and Rh(1)) and 18 kinds of alpha-amino acids (Asp, Glu, Asn, Phe, Gln, Thr, Ser, Met, Trp, Val, Gly, Ile, Ala, Leu, Pro, His, Lys and Arg). The 1:1 and 2:1 noncovalent complexes of ginsenosides and amino acids were observed in the mass spectra. The dissociation constants for the noncovalent complexes were directly calculated based on peak intensities of ginsenosides and the noncovalent complexes in the mass spectra. Based on the dissociation constants, it can be concluded that the acidic and the basic amino acids, Asp, Glu, Lys and Arg, bound to ginsenosides more strongly than other amino acids. The experimental results were verified by theoretical calculations of parameters of noncovalent interaction between ginsenoside Re and Arg which served as a representative example. Two kinds of binding forms, "head-tail" ("H-T") and "head-head" ("H-H"), were proposed to explain the interaction between ginsenosides and amino acids. And the interaction in "H-T" form was stronger than that in "H-H" form.

Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer modulates the levels of MMP3 in S12 murine articular cartilage cell line

AIM OF THE STUDY

The destruction of cartilage in patients with osteoarthritis occurs due to an imbalance between matrix synthesis and degradation. Cartilage degradation is induced by the activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the cartilage protective effect of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer (PG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

S12 cells were treated with various concentrations of extract of PG and gensenosides Rd and Rb(3) for 3h, after which 10 ng/ml interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) was added to the culture media. The levels of MMP3 in the conditioned media were then evaluated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to evaluate the mRNA expression of Type II Collagen and Pro-collagenase. Furthermore, Western blot analysis was performed to identify the roles that PG played in the ERK and p38 signaling pathways.

RESULTS

The MMP3 secretion levels of S12 cells were significantly lowered in response to treatment with PG and gensenosides Rd and Rb(3) at a concentration of 100 microg/ml when compared to cells that were treated with IL-1beta. In addition, PG induced the mRNA expression of Type II Collagen dose dependently. Furthermore, phosphorylated p38 and ERK were detected in S12 articular cartilage cell line that was treated with IL-1beta. PG decreased the phosphorylation of p38, but PG did not exert any effect on phospho-ERK.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that PG and gensenosides Rd and Rb(3) suppress MMP3 secretion and that gensenosides Rd and Rb(3) are the major elements involved in the suppression of MMP3 by PG. Furthermore, the suppression of MMP3 by PG occurs via the inhibition of phospho-p38 activation. Therefore, PG may exert a protective effect against the cartilage degradation of OA.

Panax ginseng induces anterograde transport of pigment organelles in Xenopus melanophores

Melanophores from Xenopus laevis are pigmented cells, capable of quick colour changes through cyclic adenosine 3':5'-monophosphate (cAMP) coordinated transport of their intracellular pigment granules, melanosomes. In this study we use the melanophore cell line to evaluate the effects of Panax ginseng extract G115 on organelle transport. Absorbance readings of melanophore-coated microplates, Correlate-EIA direct cAMP enzyme immunoassay kit, and western blot were used to measure the melanosome movement and changes in intracellular signalling. We show that Panax ginseng induces a fast concentration-dependent anterograde transport of the melanosomes. No significant increase in the cAMP level was seen and pre-incubation of melanophores with the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor EGF-R Fragment 651-658 (M-EGF) only partly decreased the ginseng-induced dispersion. We also demonstrate that Panax ginseng, endothelin-3 (ET-3) and alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) stimulate an activation of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK). Pre-incubation with M-EGF decreased the MAPK activity induced by ET-3 and MSH, but again only marginally affected the response of Panax ginseng. Thus, in melanophores we suggest that Panax ginseng stimulates an anterograde transport of pigment organelles via a non-cAMP and mainly PKC-independent pathway.

Proteomics applied on plant abiotic stresses: role of heat shock proteins (HSP)

The most crucial function of plant cell is to respond against stress induced for self-defence. This defence is brought about by alteration in the pattern of gene expression: qualitative and quantitative changes in proteins are the result, leading to modulation of certain metabolic and defensive pathways. Abiotic stresses usually cause protein dysfunction. They have an ability to alter the levels of a number of proteins which may be soluble or structural in nature. Nowadays, in higher plants high-throughput protein identification has been made possible along with improved protein extraction, purification protocols and the development of genomic sequence databases for peptide mass matches. Thus, recent proteome analysis performed in the vegetal Kingdom has provided new dimensions to assess the changes in protein types and their expression levels under abiotic stress. As reported in this review, specific and novel proteins, protein-protein interactions and post-translational modifications have been identified, which play a role in signal transduction, anti-oxidative defence, anti-freezing, heat shock, metal binding etc. However, beside specific proteins production, plants respond to various stresses in a similar manner by producing heat shock proteins (HSPs), indicating a similarity in the plant's adaptive mechanisms; in plants, more than in animals, HSPs protect cells against many stresses. A relationship between ROS and HSP also seems to exist, corroborating the hypothesis that during the course of evolution, plants were able to achieve a high degree of control over ROS toxicity and are now using ROS as signalling molecules to induce HSPs.

Characterization of proteomic and metabolomic responses to dietary factors and supplements

Over the past decade there has been a renewed interest in research and development of both dietary and nutritional supplements. Significant advancements have been made in the scientific assessment of the quality, safety, and efficacy of these products because of the strong interest in and financial support of these projects. As research in both fields continues to advance, opportunities to use new and innovative research technologies and methodologies, such as proteomics and metabolomics, are critical for the future progress of the science. The purpose of the symposium was to begin the process of communicating new innovative proteomic and metabolomic methodologies that may be applied by researchers in both the nutrition and the natural product communities. This symposium highlighted 2 proteomic approaches, protein fingerprinting in complex mixtures with peptoid microarrays and top-down mass spectrometry for annotation of gene products. Likewise, an overview of the methodologies used in metabolomic profiling of natural products was presented, and an illustration of an integrated metabolomics approach in nutrition research was highlighted.

Water extract of Korean red ginseng stimulates angiogenesis by activating the PI3K/Akt-dependent ERK1/2 and eNOS pathways in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Angiogenesis is important for promoting cardiovascular disease, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. We investigated the effects of Korean red ginseng water extract (KRGE) on angiogenesis and its underlying signal mechanism. KRGE increased in vitro proliferation, migration, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, as well as stimulated in vivo angiogenesis without increasing VEGF expression. KRGE-induced angiogenesis was accompanied by phosphorylation of ERK1/2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (Akt), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) as well as an increase in NO production. Inhibition of PI3K activity by wortmannin completely inhibited KRGE-induced angiogenesis and phosphorylation of Akt, ERK1/2, and eNOS, indicating that PI3K/Akt activation is an upstream event of the KRGE-mediated angiogenic pathway. The MEK inhibitor PD98059 blocked KRGE-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation without affecting Akt and eNOS activation. However, the eNOS inhibitor N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine effectively inhibited tube formation, but partially blocked proliferation and migration as well as ERK phosphorylation, without altering Akt and eNOS activation, revealing that the eNOS/NO pathway is partially involved in ERK1/2 activation. This study demonstrated that KRGE stimulates in vitro and in vivo angiogenesis through the activation of the PI3K/Akt-dependent ERK1/2 and eNOS signal pathways and their cross talk.

Plant proteome analysis: A 2004–2006 update

Since the appearance of the review entitled "Plant Proteome Analysis" in Proteomics in February 2004 (Cánovas, F. M., Dumas-Gaudot, E., Recorbert, G., Jorrín, J. et al., Proteomics 2004, 4, 285-298), about 200 original articles focusing on plant proteomics have been published. Although this represents less than 1% of the global proteomics output during this period, it nevertheless reflects an increase in activity over the period 1999-2004. These papers concern the proteome of at least 35 plant species but have concentrated mainly on thale cress (Arabidopsis thaliana) and rice (Oryza sativa). The scientific objectives have ranged from a proteomic analysis of organs, tissues, cell suspensions, or subcellular fractions to the study of plant development and response to various stresses. A number of contributions have covered PTMs and protein interactions. The dominant analytical platform has been 2-DE coupled to MS, but "second generation" techniques such as DIGE, multidimensional protein identification technology, isotope-coded affinity tags, and stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture have begun to make an impact. This review aims to provide an update of the contribution of proteomics to plant biology during the period 2004-2006, and is divided into six sections: introduction, subcellular proteomes, plant development, responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, PTMs, and protein interactions. The conclusions summarize a view of the major pitfalls and challenges of plant proteomics.

Overview on the Analytical Tools for Quality Control of Natural Product-Based Supplements: A Case Study of Ginseng

The quality of pharmaceutical products like ginseng is important for ensuring consumer safety and efficacy. Many ginseng products sold today are in various formulations such as powder, capsules, tablets, soft-gels, liquid extracts, and tea. This renders ginseng less identifiable by smell, taste, or physical appearance. Furthermore, as ginseng is expensive, adulteration with other cheaper products occurs. Hence quality assurance of ginseng is needed. This paper reviews the major techniques for ascertaining the level of ginsenosides, the primary active ingredients for ginseng, and covers high-performance liquid, gas, and thin-layer chromatographies, infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies, enzyme immunoassays, and other molecular methods. Supporting techniques such as ultraviolet, fluorescence, diode array and evaporative light scattering detections, and mass spectrometry will also be touched upon. This review also discusses the principles and applications of biosensors-in particular fiber optic-based sensors-and their feasibility in ginseng analysis based on preliminary studies. Despite their potential, there is currently no or limited commercial exploitation of fiber optic-based sensors to perform ginseng quality analysis. The opportunity for biosensors to be used for the rapid quality surveillance of ginseng is appealing, but several key issues still need to be addressed before they find widespread applications in the traditional Chinese medicine industry.