Pharmacokinetic study of ginsenoside Re with pure ginsenoside Re and ginseng berry extracts in mouse using ultra performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometric method

Methods on improvements of the poor oral bioavailability of ginsenosides: Pre-processing, structural modification, drug combination, and micro- or nano- delivery system

Panax ginseng Meyer is a traditional Chinese medicine that is widely used as tonic in Asia. The main pharmacologically active components of ginseng are the dammarane-type ginsenosides, which have been shown to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, neuroprotective, and metabolic regulatory activities. Moreover, some of ginsenosides (eg, Rh2 and Rg3) have been developed into nutraceuticals. However, the utilization of ginsenosides in clinic is restrictive due to poor permeability in cells and low bioavailability in human body. Obviously, the dammarane skeleton and glycosyls of ginsenosides are responsible for these limitations. Therefore, improving the oral bioavailability of ginsenosides has become a pressing issue. Here, based on the structures of ginsenosides, we summarized the understanding of the factors affecting the oral bioavailability of ginsenosides, introduced the methods to enhance the oral bioavailability and proposed the future perspectives on improving the oral bioavailability of ginsenosides.

Protective effects of ginseng and ginsenosides in the development of osteoarthritis (Review)

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic inflammatory joint disease. Traditional chinese medicine provides a resource for drug screening for OA treatment. Ginseng and the associated bioactive compound, ginsenosides, may reduce inflammation, which is considered a risk factor for the development of OA. Specifically, ginsenosides may exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress activities, and inhibit extracellular matrix degradation by suppressing the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Notably, specific ginsenosides, such as compound K and Rk1, may physically interact with IκB kinase and inhibit the associated phosphorylation. Thus, ginsenosides exhibit potential as therapeutic candidates in the management of OA. However, the low water solubility limits the clinical applications of ginsenosides. Numerous effective strategies have been explored to improve bioavailability; however, further investigations are still required.

Self-Double-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System Enteric-Coated Capsules: A Novel Approach to Improve Oral Bioavailability and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Panax notoginseng Saponins

In this work, self-double-emulsifying drug delivery system enteric-coated capsules (PNS-SDE-ECC) were used to enhance the oral bioavailability and anti-inflammatory effects of Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS), which are rapidly biodegradable, poorly membrane permeable, and highly water-soluble compounds. The PNS-SDEDDS formulated by a modified two-step method spontaneously emulsified to W/O/W double emulsions in the outer aqueous solution, which significantly promoted the absorption of PNS in the intestinal tract. The release study revealed that PNS-SDE-ECC exhibited sustained release of PNS within 24 h and the stability study indicated that PNS-SDE-ECC were stable at room temperature for up to 3 months. Furthermore, compared to PNS gastric capsules, the relative bioavailability of NGR1, GRg1, GRe, GRb1, and GRd in PNS-SDE-ECC was increased by 4.83, 10.78, 9.25, 3.58, and 4.63 times, respectively. More importantly, PNS-SDE-ECC significantly reduced OXZ-induced inflammatory damage in the colon by regulating the expression of TNF-α, IL-4, IL-13, and MPO cytokines. Overall, the prepared PNS-SDE-ECC may serve as a viable vehicle for increasing the oral bioavailability of PNS and its anti-inflammatory action on ulcerative colitis.

Ginsenoside Re inhibits myocardial fibrosis by regulating miR-489/myd88/NF-κB pathway

Background

Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is an advanced pathological manifestation of many cardiovascular diseases, which can induce heart failure and malignant arrhythmias. However, the current treatment of MF lacks specific drugs. Ginsenoside Re has anti-MF effect in rat, but its mechanism is still not clear. Therefore, we investigated the anti-MF effect of ginsenoside Re by constructing mouse acute myocardial infarction (AMI) model and AngⅡ induced cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) model.

Methods

The anti-MF effect of miR-489 was investigated by transfection of miR-489 mimic and inhibitor in CFs. Effect of ginsenoside Re on MF and its related mechanisms were investigated by ultrasonographic, ELISA, histopathologic staining, transwell test, immunofluorescence, Western blot and qPCR in the mouse model of AMI and the AngⅡ-induced CFs model.

Results

MiR-489 decreased the expression of α-SMA, collagenⅠ, collagen Ⅲ and myd88, and inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 in normal CFs and CFs treated with AngⅡ. Ginsenoside Re could improve cardiac function, inhibit collagen deposition and CFs migration, promote the transcription of miR-489, and reduce the expression of myd88 and the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65.

Conclusion

MiR-489 can effectively inhibit the pathological process of MF, and the mechanism is at least partly related to the regulation of myd88/NF-κB pathway. Ginsenoside Re can ameliorate AMI and AngⅡ induced MF, and the mechanism is at least partially related to the regulation of miR-489/myd88/NF-κB signaling pathway. Therefore, miR-489 may be a potential target of anti-MF and ginsenoside Re may be an effective drug for the treatment of MF.

Ginsenoside Re attenuates 8-OH-DPAT-induced serotonergic behaviors in mice via interactive modulation between PKCδ gene and Nrf2

It has been recognized that serotonergic blocker showed serious side effects, and that ginsenoside modulated serotonergic system with the safety. However, the effects of ginsenoside on serotonergic impairments remain to be clarified. Thus, we investigated ginsenoside Re (GRe), a major bioactive component in the mountain-cultivated ginseng on (±)-8-hydroxy-dipropylaminotetralin (8-OH-DPAT), a 5-HT_1A receptor agonist. In the present study, we observed that the treatment with GRe resulted in significant inhibition of protein kinase C δ (PKCδ) phosphorylation induced by the 5-HT_1A receptor agonist (±)-8-hydroxy-dipropylaminotetralin (8-OH-DPAT) in the hypothalamus of the wild-type (WT) mice. The inhibition of GRe was comparable with that of the PKCδ inhibitor rottlerin or the 5-HT_1A receptor antagonist WAY100635 (WAY). 8-OH-DPAT-induced significant reduction in nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-related system (i.e., Nrf2 DNA binding activity, γ-glutamylcysteine ligase modifier (GCLm) and γ-glutamylcysteine ligase catalytic (GCLc) mRNA expression, and glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio) was significantly attenuated by GRe, rottlerin, or WAY in WT mice. However, PKCδ gene knockout significantly protected the Nrf2-dependent system from 8-OH-DPAT insult in mice. Increases in 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HT) turnover rate, overall serotonergic behavioral score, and hypothermia induced by 8-OH-DPAT were significantly attenuated by GRe, rottlerin, or WAY in WT mice. Consistently, PKCδ gene knockout significantly attenuated these parameters in mice. However, GRe or WAY did not provide any additional positive effects on the serotonergic protective potential mediated by PKCδ gene knockout in mice. Therefore, our results suggest that PKCδ is an important mediator for GRe-mediated protective activity against serotonergic impairments/oxidative burden caused by the 5-HT_1A receptor.

Pharmacokinetics and Oral Bioavailability of Panax Notoginseng Saponins Administered to Rats Using a Validated UPLC-MS/MS Method

Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) are the most important bioactive components of P. Notoginseng. In this paper, an evaluation of the pharmacokinetics and oral absolute bioavailability of PNS was carried out following intravenous and oral administration of PNS to Sprague-Dawley rats. The plasma concentration of 28 PNS was determined using a validated UPLC-MS/MS system. The results demonstrated that Rb1(32.8%), Rg1(41.4%), R1(9.4%), Re(4.5%), and Rd(3.5%) are the five main ingredients of PNS for administration. After oral administration, it was found that the area under the curve (AUC_0-72 h) for these five major saponins was significantly different. AUC_0-72 h of Rb1 and Rd accounted for about 60% of all PNS exposure, while AUC_0-72 h of Rg1 and R1 only accounted for 0.7%, and Re was undetectable in plasma. Also, PPD, PPT, and CK were detected as the major PNS metabolites in vivo. Furthermore, it was shown that the total oral bioavailability of PNS was only 1.2%.

Panax ginseng against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury: A review of preclinical evidence and potential mechanisms

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (P. ginseng) is effective in the prevention and treatment of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The mechanism by which P. ginseng exerts cardioprotective effects is complex. P. ginseng contains many pharmacologically active ingredients, such as molecular glycosides, polyphenols, and polysaccharides. P. ginseng and each of its active components can potentially act against myocardial I/R injury. Myocardial I/R was originally a treatment for myocardial ischemia, but it also induced irreversible damage, including oxygen-containing free radicals, calcium overload, energy metabolism disorder, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, microvascular injury, autophagy, and apoptosis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to clarify the protective effects of P. ginseng and its active ingredients against myocardial I/R injury, so as to provide experimental evidence and new insights for the research and application of P. ginseng in the field of myocardial I/R injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review was based on a search of PubMed, NCBI, Embase, and Web of Science databases from their inception to February 21, 2022, using terms such as "ginseng," "ginsenosides," and "myocardial reperfusion injury." In this review, we first summarized the active ingredients of P. ginseng, including ginsenosides, ginseng polysaccharides, and phytosterols, as well as the pathophysiological mechanisms of myocardial I/R injury. Importantly, preclinical models with myocardial I/R injury and potential mechanisms of these active ingredients of P. ginseng for the prevention and treatment of myocardial disorders were generally summarized.

RESULTS

P. ginseng and its active components can regulate oxidative stress related proteins, inflammatory cytokines, and apoptosis factors, while protecting the myocardium and preventing myocardial I/R injury. Therefore, P. ginseng can play a role in the prevention and treatment of myocardial I/R injury.

CONCLUSIONS

P. ginseng has a certain curative effect on myocardial I/R injury. It can prevent and treat myocardial I/R injury in several ways. When ginseng exerts its effects, should be based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine and with the help of modern medicine; the clinical efficacy of P. ginseng in preventing and treating myocardial I/R injury can be improved.

Protective effects of Panax ginseng berry extract on blue light-induced retinal damage in ARPE-19 cells and mouse retina

Background

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a significant visual disease that induces impaired vision and irreversible blindness in the elderly. However, the effects of ginseng berry extract (GBE) on the retina have not been studied. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the protective effects of GBE on blue light (BL)-induced retinal damage and elucidate its underlying mechanisms in human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19 cells) and Balb/c retina.

Methods

To investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of GBE on retinal damage in vitro, we performed cell viability assay, pre-and post-treatment of sample, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and western immunoblotting using A2E-laden ARPE-19 cells with BL exposure. In addition, Balb/c mice were irradiated with BL to induce retinal degeneration and orally administrated with GBE (50, 100, 200 mg/kg). Using the harvested retina, we performed histological analysis (thickness of retinal layers), qRT-PCR, and western immunoblotting to elucidate the effects and mechanisms of GBE against retinal damage in vivo.

Results

GBE significantly inhibited BL-induced cell damage in ARPE-19 cells by activating the SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway, regulating NF-kB translocation, caspase 3 activation, PARP cleavage, expressions of apoptosis-related factors (BAX/BCL-2, LC3-Ⅱ, and p62), and ROS production. Furthermore, GBE prevented BL-induced retinal degeneration by restoring the thickness of retinal layers and suppressed inflammation and apoptosis via regulation of NF-kB and SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway, cleavage of caspase 3 and PARP, and expressions of apoptosis-related factors in vivo.

Conclusions

GBE could be a potential agent to prevent dry AMD and progression to wet AMD.

Pharmacological Properties of Ginsenoside Re

Ginsenoside Re is a protopanaxatriol-type saponin extracted from the berry, leaf, stem, flower bud, and root of Panax ginseng. In recent years, ginsenoside Re (Re) has been attracting attention as a dietary phytochemical. In this review, studies on Re were compiled by searching a combination of keywords, namely “pharmacology,” “pharmacokinetics,” and “toxicology,” in the Google Scholar, NCBI, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. The aim of this review was to provide an exhaustive overview of the pharmacological activities, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of Re, focusing on clinical evidence that has shown effectiveness in specific diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, nervous system diseases, inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Re is also known to eliminate virus, enhance the immune response, improve osteoporosis, improve skin barrier function, enhance intracellular anti-oxidant actions, regulate cholesterol metabolism, alleviate allergic responses, increase sperm motility, reduce erectile dysfunction, promote cyclic growth of hair follicles, and reduce gastrointestinal motility dysfunction. Furthermore, this review provides data on pharmacokinetic parameters and toxicological factors to examine the safety profile of Re. Such data will provide a theoretical basis and reference for Re-related studies and future applications.

American Ginseng Attenuates Eccentric Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage via the Modulation of Lipid Peroxidation and Inflammatory Adaptation in Males

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is characterized by a reduction in functional performance, disruption of muscle structure, production of reactive oxygen species, and inflammatory reactions. Ginseng, along with its major bioactive component ginsenosides, has been widely employed in traditional Chinese medicine. The protective potential of American ginseng (AG) for eccentric EIMD remains unclear. Twelve physically active males (age: 22.4 ± 1.7 years; height: 175.1 ± 5.7 cm; weight: 70.8 ± 8.0 kg; peak oxygen consumption [V˙O2peak] 54.1 ± 4.3 mL/kg/min) were administrated by AG extract (1.6 g/day) or placebo (P) for 28 days and subsequently challenged by downhill (DH) running (−10% gradient and 60% V˙O2peak). The levels of circulating 8-iso-prostaglandin F 2α (PGF2α), creatine kinase (CK), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-4, IL-10, and TNF-α, and the graphic pain rating scale (GPRS) were measured before and after supplementation and DH running. The results showed that the increases in plasma CK activity induced by DH running were eliminated by AG supplementation at 48 and 72 h after DH running. The level of plasma 8-iso-PGF2α was attenuated by AG supplementation immediately (p = 0.01 and r = 0.53), 2 h (p = 0.01 and r = 0.53) and 24 h (p = 0.028 and r = 0.45) after DH running compared with that by P supplementation. Moreover, our results showed an attenuation in the plasma IL-4 levels between AG and P supplementation before (p = 0.011 and r = 0.52) and 72 h (p = 0.028 and r = 0.45) following DH running. Our findings suggest that short-term supplementation with AG alleviates eccentric EIMD by decreasing lipid peroxidation and promoting inflammatory adaptation.

Preparation, Characterization, and Bioavailability of Host-Guest Inclusion Complex of Ginsenoside Re with Gamma-Cyclodextrin

This work aimed at improving the water solubility of Ginsenoside (G)-Re by forming an inclusion complex. The solubility parameters of G-Re in alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ) cyclodextrin (CD) were investigated. The phase solubility profiles were all classified as AL-type that indicated the 1:1 stoichiometric relationship with the stability constants Ks which were 22 M⁻¹ (α-CD), 612 M⁻¹ (β-CD), and 14,410 M⁻¹ (γ-CD), respectively. Molecular docking studies confirmed the results of phase solubility with the binding energy of −4.7 (α-CD), −5.10 (β-CD), and −6.70 (γ-CD) kcal/mol, respectively. The inclusion complex (IC) of G-Re was prepared with γ-CD via the water-stirring method followed by freeze-drying. The successful preparation of IC was confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In-vivo absorption studies were carried out by LC-MS/MS. Dissolution rate of G-Re was increased 9.27 times after inclusion, and the peak blood concentration was 2.7-fold higher than that of pure G-Re powder. The relative bioavailability calculated from the ratio of Area under the curve AUC₀–_∞ of the inclusion to pure G-Re powder was 171%. This study offers the first report that describes G-Re’s inclusion into γ-CD, and explored the inclusion complex’s mechanism at the molecular level. The results indicated that the solubility could be significantly improved as well as the bioavailability, implying γ-CD was a very suitable inclusion host for complex preparation of G-Re.

UHPLC-MS-Based Serum and Urine Metabolomics Reveals the Anti-Diabetic Mechanism of Ginsenoside Re in Type 2 Diabetic Rats

Panax ginseng was employed in the treatment of “Xiao-Ke” symptom, which nowadays known as diabetes mellitus, in traditional Chinese medicine for more than a thousand years. Ginsenoside Re was the major pharmacologic ingredient found abundantly in ginseng. However, the anti-diabetic of Ginsenoside Re and its underlying mechanism in metabolic level are still unclear. Serum and urine metabolomic method was carried out to investigate the anti-diabetic pharmacological effects and the potential mechanism of Ginsenoside Re on high-fat diet combined streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole exactive orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS). Serum and urine samples were collected from the control group (CON), T2DM group, metformin (MET) treatment group, and ginsenoside Re treatment group after intervention. The biochemical parameters of serum were firstly analyzed. The endogenous metabolites in serum and urine were detected by UHPLC-MS. The potential metabolites were screened by multivariate statistical analysis and identified by accurate mass measurement, MS/MS, and metabolite databases. The anti-diabetic-related metabolites were analyzed by KEGG metabolic pathway, and its potential mechanism was discussed. The treatment of ginsenoside Re significantly reduced the blood glucose and serum lipid level improved the oxidative stress caused by T2DM. Biochemical parameters (urea nitrogen, uric acid) showed that ginsenoside Re could improve renal function in T2DM rats. Respective 2 and 6 differential metabolites were found and identified in serum and urine of ginsenoside Re compared with T2DM group and enriched in KEGG pathway. Metabolic pathways analysis indicated that the differential metabolites related to T2DM were mainly involved in arachidonic acid metabolism, Vitamin B6, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and bile secretion metabolic pathways. This study verified the anti-diabetic and anti-oxidation effects of ginsenoside Re, elaborated that ginsenoside Re has a good regulation of the metabolic disorder in T2DM rats, which could promote insulin secretion, stimulated cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB₁), and CaMKK β to activate AMPK signaling pathway, inhibited insulin resistance, and improved blood glucose uptake and diabetic nephropathy, so as to play the role of anti-diabetic.

Ginsenoside Re Protects against Serotonergic Behaviors Evoked by 2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodo-amphetamine in Mice via Inhibition of PKCδ-Mediated Mitochondrial Dysfunction

It has been recognized that serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT_2A) agonist 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodo-amphetamine (DOI) impairs serotonergic homeostasis. However, the mechanism of DOI-induced serotonergic behaviors remains to be explored. Moreover, little is known about therapeutic interventions against serotonin syndrome, although evidence suggests that ginseng might possess modulating effects on the serotonin system. As ginsenoside Re (GRe) is well-known as a novel antioxidant in the nervous system, we investigated whether GRe modulates 5-HT_2A receptor agonist DOI-induced serotonin impairments. We proposed that protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) mediates serotonergic impairments. Treatment with GRe or 5-HT_2A receptor antagonist MDL11939 significantly attenuated DOI-induced serotonergic behaviors (i.e., overall serotonergic syndrome behaviors, head twitch response, hyperthermia) by inhibiting mitochondrial translocation of PKCδ, reducing mitochondrial glutathione peroxidase activity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and mitochondrial oxidative stress in wild-type mice. These attenuations were in line with those observed upon PKCδ inhibition (i.e., pharmacologic inhibitor rottlerin or PKCδ knockout mice). Furthermore, GRe was not further implicated in attenuation mediated by PKCδ knockout in mice. Our results suggest that PKCδ is a therapeutic target for GRe against serotonergic behaviors induced by DOI.

Serum metabolomic analysis of the anti-diabetic effect of Ginseng berry in type II diabetic rats based on ultra high-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry

Serum metabolomic method was used to investigated the anti-diabetic effects and mechanism of Ginseng berry (GB) on high-fat diet combined streptozotocin induced type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats based on ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole Exactive orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS). Serum samples from control group, T2DM group, metformin treatment group, and GB ginsenoside treatment group rats were collected after intervention. The biochemical parameters of serum were firstly analyzed. Then metabolomic studies based on UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS and multivariate statistical analysis were performed for the pattern recognition and characteristic metabolites identification. The differential metabolites were analyzed by KEGG metabolic pathway to study the potential mechanism. The treatment of GB ginsenoside significantly reduced the blood glucose level, increased the content of serum SOD, and reduced the content of malondialdehyde. Respectively 16, 9, and 24 differential metabolites were found and identified in T2DM compared to control group, metformin compared to T2DM group and GB compared to T2DM group. Metabolic pathways analysis indicated that GB ginsenoside regulated bile acid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, glucuronization to play a role in the treatment of T2DM. This study verified the anti-diabetic and anti-oxidation effects of ginseng berry, elaborated that GB regulated the secretion of bile acids, activated GLP-1 pathway, increased the secretion of insulin, promoted the hydrolysis of fat and triglyceride, inhibited the activity of 5α - reductase, reduced weight and insulin resistance, so as to improved and treated T2DM, and laid the foundation for the further development and utilization.

Thermal transformation of polar into less-polar ginsenosides through demalonylation and deglycosylation in extracts from ginseng pulp

The present study was conducted to qualitatively and quantitatively elucidate dynamic changes of ginsenosides in ginseng pulp steamed under different temperatures (100 or 120 °C) for different durations (1-6 h) through UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS and HPLC with the aid of as numerous as 18 authentic standards of ginsenosides. Results show that levels of eight polar ginsenosides (i.e., Rg₁, Re, Rb₁, Rc, Rb₂, Rb₃, F₁, and Rd) declined but those of 10 less-polar ginsenosides [i.e., Rf, Rg₂, 20(S)-Rh₁, 20(R)-Rg₂, F₄, 20(S)-Rg₃, 20(R)-Rg₃, PPT, Rg₅, and 20(R)-Rh₂] elevated with increases of both steaming temperature and duration; the optimum steaming conditions for achieving the highest total ginsenosides were 100 °C for 1 h. Particular, 20(R)-Rg₃, a representative less-polar ginsenoside with high bioactivity such as potent anti-cancer effect, increased sharply but Re, the most abundant polar ginsenoside in fresh ginseng pulp, decreased dramatically. More importantly, ginsenoside species enhanced from 18 to 42 after steaming, mainly due to transformation of polar into less-polar ginsenosides. Furthermore, four malonyl-ginsenosides were detected in fresh ginseng pulps and ten acetyl-ginsenosides were formed during steaming, demonstrating that demalonylation and acetylation of ginsenosides were the dominant underling mechanisms for transformation of polar into less-polar ginsenosides.

Recent Advances in the Semisynthesis, Modifications and Biological Activities of Ocotillol-Type Triterpenoids

Ginseng is one of the most widely consumed herbs in the world and plays an important role in counteracting fatigue and alleviating stress. The main active substances of ginseng are its ginsenosides. Ocotillol-type triterpenoid is a remarkably effective ginsenoside from Vietnamese ginseng that has received attention because of its potential antibacterial, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, among others. The semisynthesis, modification and biological activities of ocotillol-type compounds have been extensively studied in recent years. The aim of this review is to summarize semisynthesis, modification and pharmacological activities of ocotillol-type compounds. The structure-activity relationship studies of these compounds were reported. This summary should prove useful information for drug exploration of ocotillol-type derivatives.

Ginsenoside Re Preserves Cardiac Function and Ameliorates Left Ventricular Remodeling in a Rat Model of Myocardial Infarction

Ginsenoside Re, an herbal ingredient from ginseng, has been demonstrated to protect the heart from various cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we investigated the protective effects and mechanisms of ginsenoside Re (Gin-Re) on cardiac function and left ventricular remodeling in a rat model of myocardial infarction (MI). After ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery, Wistar rats were treated with Gin-Re (135 mg/kg) by gavage everyday for 4 weeks. Serological detection showed that Gin-Re significantly inhibited myocardial injury and attenuated oxidative stress in MI rats. Echocardiographic observation showed that Gin-Re significantly improved cardiac function and prevented left ventricular dilatation induced by MI. Pathological observation found that Gin-Re significantly decreased interstitial fibrosis in the left ventricle of MI rats. Compared with the MI group, Gin-Re treatment promoted AMPKα phosphorylation, decreased TGF-β1 expression, and attenuated Smad2/3 activation. After Gin-Re treatment, the phosphorylation of FAK, PI3K p110α, and Akt was enhanced in MI rats, while PI3K p110β showed no difference compared with the MI group. These results indicate that Gin-Re may improve MI-induced cardiac dysfunction and mitigate ventricular remodeling through regulation of the AMPK/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 and FAK/PI3K p110α/Akt signaling pathways.

Herbal Medicine of the 21st Century: A Focus on the Chemistry, Pharmacokinetics and Toxicity of Five Widely Advocated Phytotherapies

Widely advocated for their health benefits worldwide, herbal medicines (HMs) have evolved into a billion dollar generating industry. Much is known regarding their wellness inducing properties, prophylactic and therapeutic benefits for the relief of both minor to chronic ailment conditions given their long-standing use among various cultures worldwide. On the other hand, their equally meaningful chemistry, pharmacokinetic profile in humans, interaction and toxicity profile have been poorly researched and documented. Consequently, this review is an attempt to highlight the health benefits, pharmacokinetics, interaction, and toxicity profile of five globally famous HMs. A systematic literature search was conducted by browsing major scientific databases such as Bentham Science, SciFinder, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar and EBSCO to include 196 articles. In general, ginsenosides, glycyrrhizin and curcumin demonstrate low bioavailability when orally administered. Ginkgo biloba L. induces both CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 and alters the AUC and Cmax of conventional medications including midazolam, tolbutamide, lopinavir and nifedipine. Ginsenosides Re stimulates CYP2C9, decreasing the anticoagulant activity of warfarin. Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze increases the bioavailability of buspirone and is rich in vitamin K thereby inhibiting the activity of anticoagulant agents. Glycyrrhiza glabra L. displaces serum bound cardiovascular drugs such as diltiazem, nifedipine and verapamil. Herbal medicine can directly affect hepatocytes leading to hepatoxicity based on both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The potentiation of the activity of concurrently administered conventional agents is potentially lethal especially if the drugs bear dangerous side effects and have a low therapeutic window.

Synergistic Mechanisms of Constituents in Herbal Extracts during Intestinal Absorption: Focus on Natural Occurring Nanoparticles

The systematic separation strategy has long and widely been applied in the research and development of herbal medicines. However, the pharmacological effects of many bioactive constituents are much weaker than those of the corresponding herbal extracts. Thus, there is a consensus that purer herbal extracts are sometimes less effective. Pharmacological loss of purified constituents is closely associated with their significantly reduced intestinal absorption after oral administration. In this review, pharmacokinetic synergies among constituents in herbal extracts during intestinal absorption were systematically summarized to broaden the general understanding of the pharmaceutical nature of herbal medicines. Briefly, some coexisting constituents including plant-produced primary and secondary metabolites, promote the intestinal absorption of active constituents by improving solubility, inhibiting first-pass elimination mediated by drug-metabolizing enzymes or drug transporters, increasing the membrane permeability of enterocytes, and reversibly opening the paracellular tight junction between enterocytes. Moreover, some coexisting constituents change the forms of bioactive constituents via mechanisms including the formation of natural nanoparticles. This review will focus on explaining this new synergistic mechanism. Thus, herbal extracts can be considered mixtures of bioactive compounds and pharmacokinetic synergists. This review may provide ideas and strategies for further research and development of herbal medicines.

Effects of Harvest Time on Phytochemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Panax ginseng Berry Extracts

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) has long been used as a traditional medicine for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. Generally, the harvest time and age of ginseng have been regarded as important factors determining the efficacy of ginseng. However, most studies have mainly focused on the root of ginseng, while studies on other parts of ginseng such as its berry have been relatively limited. Thus, the aim of this study iss to determine effects of harvest time on yields, phenolics/ginsenosides contents, and the antioxidant/anti-elastase activities of ethanol extracts of three- and four-year-old ginseng berry. In both three- and fourfour-year-old ginseng berry extracts, antioxidant and anti-elastase activities tended to increase as berries ripen from the first week to the last week of July. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis has revealed that contents of ginsenosides except Rg1 tend to be the highest in fourfour-year-old ginseng berries harvested in early July. These results indicate that biological activities and ginsenoside profiles of ginseng berry extracts depend on their age and harvest time in July, suggesting the importance of harvest time in the development of functional foods and medicinal products containing ginseng berry extracts. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the influence of harvest time on the biological activity and ginsenoside contents of ginseng berry extracts.

Ginseng Berry Prevents Alcohol-Induced Liver Damage by Improving the Anti-Inflammatory System Damage in Mice and Quality Control of Active Compounds

The ginseng berry contains a variety of biologically active compounds and has a higher ginsenoside content than its roots. This study focused on the hepatoprotective activity of ginseng berry extract prepared by enzyme treatment (EGB) compared to the non-enzyme-treated ginseng berry extract (GB) and quality control of EGB. The feeding effect of EGB on alcohol-induced liver damage (AILD) was investigated by measuring the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) compared with those of EtOH-fed mice. Furthermore, cytokine levels in the culture supernatants of EGB- or GB-treated RAW 264.7 cells were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The developed method was applied to the simultaneous quantification of four major ginsenosides in EGB using UPLC-QTOF/MS. Treatment with EGB at a dose of 0.5 or 1 mg/mouse significantly suppressed the AST and ALT levels in mice with AILD. Enzyme-treated ginseng berry was also found to suppress the production of inflammatory mediators like nitric oxide (NO), tumor-necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, showing higher activity than that of GB. The amount of ginsenoside Re, F5, F3, and Rd in the EGB obtained using UPLC-QTOF/MS was 45.9, 3.3, 4.0, and 6.2 mg/g, respectively. These results suggest that EGB has a potential effect on AILD, and its hepatoprotective effect provides beneficial insights into developing new candidates for the prevention and cure of AILD. Also, this study demonstrated the utility of UPLC-QTOF/MS-based major compounds for quality control (QC) of EGB.

Non-clinical pharmacokinetic behavior of ginsenosides

Ginsenosides, the major active ingredients of ginseng and other plants of the genus Panax, have been used as natural medicines in the East for a long time; in addition, their popularity in the West has increased owing to their various beneficial pharmacological effects. There is therefore a wealth of literature regarding the pharmacological effects of ginsenosides. In contrast, there are few comprehensive studies that investigate their pharmacokinetic behaviors. This is because ginseng contains the complicated mixture of herbal materials as well as thousands of constituents with complex chemical properties, and ginsenosides undergo multiple biotransformation processes after administration. This is a significant issue as pharmacokinetic studies provide crucial data regarding the efficacy and safety of compounds. Moreover, there have been many difficulties in the development of the optimal dosage regimens of ginsenosides and the evaluation of their interactions with other drugs. Therefore, this review details the pharmacokinetic properties and profiles of ginsenosides determined in various animal models administered through different routes of administration. Such information is valuable for designing specialized delivery systems and determining optimal dosing strategies for ginsenosides.

Pharmacokinetics comparison of 15 ginsenosides and 3 aglycones in Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma and Baoyuan decoction using ultra-fast liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry

BACKGROUND

Ginsenosides were considered as the main bioactive constituents in Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma (GRR). However, because of high polarity, ginsenosides were hard to be absorbed in human or animal gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Up to now, very few studies have been performed in the area of simultaneous pharmacokinetic analysis of multiple ginsenosides with similar structures.

PURPOSE

This research aimed to compare the different absorption characteristics of ginsenosides and aglycones between GRR and Baoyuan decoction (BYD), one of formulas containing GRR, with the same dosage.

METHODS

GRR and BYD extracts were prepared with same method. A single dose of GRR and BYD extracts were administrated to rats through gavage, respectively. A solid phase extraction method was used to purify the plasma samples. An ultra-fast liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UFLC-MS/MS) method was established and fully validated for quantitative analysis. In addition, an in vitro incubation of GRR extract with intestinal flora was conducted to confirm the influence of gut microbiota to the absorption of ginsenosides and aglycones.

RESULTS

The results of incubation experiments showed that most high polar ginsenosides could transform to less polar ginsenosides via intestinal flora. The validated UFLC-MS/MS method was sensitive and precise to simultaneously analyze the pharmacokinetics of multiple ginsenosides. After oral administration of GRR and BYD extracts, the pharmacokinetic results showed that a total of 11 ginsenosides and 2 aglycones could be quantitatively determined in both groups of plasma. Besides, five compounds were only quantified in BYD extract group. In addition, another 21 ginsenosides could be qualitatively measured.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated significant pharmacokinetic differences of ginsenosides and aglycones between two groups. For most less polar ginsenosides who had better bioactivity, the preparation was possessed of higher plasma concentrations. The comparative results indicated that some co-existing compounds in BYD might inhibit the exocytosis of ginsenosides. Moreover, what is worth mentioning, some ginsenosides and aglycones could only be detected and quantified a few hours later after administration to rats. Combining with the in vitro incubation experiments, the results demonstrated that transformation of ginsenosides in gastrointestinal tract via intestinal flora existed during absorption.

Quality evaluation of Panax ginseng adventitious roots based on ginsenoside constituents, functional genes, and ferric-reducing antioxidant power

In the study, six adventitious root lines of Panax ginseng have been successfully established. HPLC-ESI-MS analysis showed that 20 ginsenosides were identified in root lines, notoginsenoside Fa and notoginsenoside R₂ were not found in AR lines. In AR lines, the highest accumulation of total ginsenosides was obtained in five-year main AR (24.87 mg/g). Principal component analysis classified root lines into three groups. Five-year ginseng was mostly similar with five-year main AR, five-year rootlet AR, and four-year rootlet AR in ginsenosides composition of group 1. Besides, gene expressions were consistent with the production of total ginsenosides, and correlation analysis revealed that total ginsenosides biosynthesis was significantly positively correlated with the gene expression of dammarenediol synthase. Five-year rootlet AR showed the highest activity on ferric-reducing antioxidant power test among samples. It provides a scientific evidence for the further exploitation and large-scale production of P. ginseng. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This study provides valuable information for the commercial scale culture of ginseng adventitious roots. This report combines morphology, ginsenoside composition and content, gene expression, and ferric-reducing antioxidant power test to evaluate the quality of P. ginseng adventitious root, and combined with principal component analysis to screen out the high yield and stable ginseng adventitious roots. It would be profitable to use adventitious root culture of P. ginseng instead of field cultivation.

Ginseng: A Qualitative Review of Benefits for Palliative Clinicians

Ginseng has been used for centuries to treat various diseases and has been commercially developed and cultivated in the past 300 years. Ginseng products may be fresh, dried (white), or dried and steamed (red). Extracts may be made using water or alcohol. There are over 50 different ginsenosides identified by chromatography. We did an informal systematic qualitative review that centered on fatigue, cancer, dementia, respiratory diseases, and heart failure, and we review 113 studies in 6 tables. There are multiple potential benefits to ginseng in cancer. Ginseng, in certain circumstances, has been shown to improve dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and heart failure through randomized trials. Most trials had biases or unknown biases and so most evidence is of low quality. We review the gaps in the evidence and make some recommendations regarding future studies.

Ginsenoside Re Improves Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Fibrosis and Heart Failure in Rats

Objective. Panax ginseng is used widely for treatment of cardiovascular disorders in China. Ginsenoside Re is the main chemical component of P. ginseng. We aimed to investigate the protective effect of ginsenoside Re on isoproterenol-induced myocardial fibrosis and heart failure in rats. Methods. A model of myocardial fibrosis and heart failure was established by once-daily subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol (5 mg/kg/day) to rats for 7 days. Simultaneously, rats were orally administrated ginsenoside Re (5 or 20 mg/kg) or vehicle daily for 4 weeks. Results. Isoproterenol enhanced the heart weight, myocardial fibrosis, and hydroxyproline content in rat hearts. Ginsenoside Re inhibited (at least in part) the isoproterenol-induced increase in heart weight, myocardial fibrosis, and hydroxyproline content. Compared with the isoproterenol group, treatment with ginsenoside Re ameliorated changes in left ventricular systolic pressure, left ventricular end diastolic pressure, and the positive and negative maximal values of the first derivative of left ventricular pressure. Ginsenoside Re administration also resulted in decreased expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in serum and decreased expression of Smad3 and collagen I in heart tissue. Conclusion. Ginsenoside Re can improve isoproterenol-induced myocardial fibrosis and heart failure by regulation of the TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway.

Biopharmaceutical characters and bioavailability improving strategies of ginsenosides

Deglycosylation is the most important gastrointestinal metabolism in which ginsenosides are split off from glycosyl moieties by the enzymes secreted from intestinal microflora, and two possible metabolic pathways of protopanaxdiol-type ginsenosides (PPD-type ginsenosides) and protopanaxtriol-type ginsenosides (PPT-type ginsenosides) have been concluded. The former is deglycosylated at C-3 and/or C-20, and transformed to protopanaxdiol (PPD). By comparison, the latter is deglycosylated at C-6 and/or C-20, and eventually transformed to protopanaxtriol (PPT) instead. The pharmacokinetic behavior of PPD-type ginsenosides and PPT-type ginsenosides is different, mainly in a faster absorption and elimination rate of PPT-type ginsenosides, but almost all of ginsenosides have a low oral bioavailability, which is relevant to the properties, the stability in the gastrointestinal tract, membrane permeability and the intestinal and hepatic first-pass effect of ginsenosides. Fortunately, its bioavailability can be improved by means of pharmaceutical strategies, including nanoparticles, liposomes, emulsions, micelles, etc. These drug delivery systems can significantly increase the bioavailability of ginsenosides, as well as controlling or targeting drug release. Ginsenosides are widely used in the treatment of various diseases, the most famous one is the Shen Yi capsule, which is the world's first clinical application of tumor neovascularization inhibitors. Hence, this article aims to draw people's attention on ocotillol-type ginsenosides, which have prominent anti-Alzheimer's disease activity, but have been overlooked previously, such as its representative compound-Pseudoginsenoside F11(PF11), and then provide a reference for the druggability and further developments of ocotillol-type ginsenosides by utilizing the homogeneous structure between dammarane-type ginsenosides and ocotillol-type ginsenosides.

Stereoselective and Simultaneous Analysis of Ginsenosides from Ginseng Berry Extract in Rat Plasma by UPLC-MS/MS: Application to a Pharmacokinetic Study of Ginseng Berry Extract

The role of ginseng berry extract (GBE) has been attributed to its anti-hyperglycemic effect in humans. However, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of GBE constitutes after oral GBE administration have not been established yet. In this study, stereoselective and simultaneous analytical methods for 10 ginsenosides (ginsenoside Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, Rg1, S-Rg2, R-Rg2, S-Rg3, and R-Rg3) were developed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography, coupled with electrospray ionization triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), for the pharmacokinetic study of GBE. Furthermore, the pharmacokinetic profiles of 10 ginsenosides after oral GBE were evaluated in rats. All analytes were detected with a linear concentration range of 0.01–10 µg/mL. Lower limits of detection (LLOD) and quantification (LLOQ) were 0.003 and 0.01 µg/mL, respectively, for all 10 ginsenosides. This established method was adequately validated in linearity, sensitivity, intra- and inter-day precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect, and stability. Relative standard deviations for all intra- and inter-precision of the 10 ginsenosides were below 11.5% and accuracies were 85.3–111%, which were sufficient to evaluate the pharmacokinetic study of oral GBE in rats. We propose that Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, Rg1, S-Rg2, R-Rg2 and/or S-Rg3 were appropriate pharmacokinetic markers of systemic exposure following oral GBE administration.

Saponins from Sea Cucumber and Their Biological Activities

Sea cucumbers, belonging to the phylum Echinodermata, have been valued for centuries as a nutritious and functional food with various bioactivities. Sea cucumbers can produce highly active substances, notably saponins, the main secondary metabolites, which are the basis of their chemical defense. The saponins are mostly triterpene glycosides with triterpenes or steroid in aglycone, which possess multiple biological properties including antitumor, hypolipidemic activity, improvement of nonalcoholic fatty liver, inhibition of fat accumulation, antihyperuricemia, promotion of bone marrow hematopoiesis, antihypertension, etc. Sea cucumber saponins have received attention due to their rich sources, low toxicity, high efficiency, and few side effects. This review summarizes current research on the structure and activities of sea cucumber saponins based on the physiological and pharmacological activities from source, experimental models, efficacy, and mechanisms, which may provide a valuable reference for the development of sea cucumber saponins.

Changes in intestinal microbiota affect metabolism of ginsenoside Re

Ginsenoside Re, an active ingredient in Panax ginseng, is widely used as a therapeutic and nutriment. The intestinal microbiota plays crucial roles in modulating the pharmacokinetics and pharmacological actions of ginsenoside Re. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between bacterial community variety and the metabolic profiles of ginsenoside Re. We developed two models with intestinal dysbacteriosis: a pseudo-germ-free model induced by a nonabsorbable antimicrobial mixture (ATM), and Qi-deficiency model established via over-fatigue and acute cold stress (OACS). First, the bacterial community structures in control, ATM and OACS rats were compared via 16S ribosomal RNA amplicon sequencing. Then, the gut microbial metabolism of ginsenoside Re was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively in the three groups by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS and HPLC-TQ-MS, respectively. Ten metabolites of ginsenoside Re were detected and tentatively identified, three of which were novel. Moreover, owing to significant differences in bacterial communities, deglycosylated products, as the main metabolites of ginsenoside Re, were produced at lower levels in ATM and OACS models. Importantly, the levels of these deglycosylated metabolites correlated with alterations in Prevotella, Lactobacillus and Bacteroides populations, as well as glycosidase activities. Collectively, biotransformation of ginsenoside Re is potentially influenced by regulation of the composition of intestinal microbiota and glycosidase activities.

LC-MS based metabolic and metabonomic studies of Panax ginseng

INTRODUCTION

Panax ginseng has received much attention as a valuable health supplement with medicinal potential. Its chemical diversity and multiple pharmacological properties call for comprehensive methods to better understand the effects of ginseng and ginsenosides. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based metabonomic approaches just fit the purpose.

OBJECTIVE

Aims to give a review of recent progress on LC-MS based pharmacokinetic, metabolic, and phytochemical metabolomic studies of ginseng, and metabonomic studies of ginseng intervention effects.

METHODS

The review has four sections: the first section discusses metabolic studies of ginsenosides based on LC-MS, the second focuses on ginsenoside-drug interactions and pharmacokinetic interaction between herb compounds based on LC-MS, the third is phytochemical metabolomic studies of ginseng based on LC-MS, and the fourth deals with metabonomic studies of ginseng intervention effects based on LC-MS.

RESULTS

LC-MS based metabonomic research on ginseng include analysis of single ginsenoside and total ginsenosides. The theory of multi-components and multi-targeted mechanisms helps to explain ginseng effects.

CONCLUSION

LC-MS based metabonomics is a promising way to comprehensively assess ginseng. It is valuable for quality control and mechanism studies of ginseng.

Micro-/nano-sized delivery systems of ginsenosides for improved systemic bioavailability

Ginsenosides, dammarane-type triterpene saponins obtained from ginseng, have been used as a natural medicine for many years in the Orient due to their various pharmacological activities. However, the therapeutic potential of ginsenosides has been largely limited by the low bioavailability of the natural products caused mainly by low aqueous solubility, poor biomembrane permeability, instability in the gastrointestinal tract, and extensive metabolism in the body. To enhance the bioavailability of ginsenosides, diverse micro-/nano-sized delivery systems such as emulsions, polymeric particles, and vesicular systems have been investigated. The delivery systems improved the bioavailability of ginsenosides by enhancing solubility, permeability, and stability of the natural products. This mini-review aims to provide comprehensive information on the micro-/nano-sized delivery systems for increasing the bioavailability of ginsenosides, which may be helpful for designing better delivery systems to maximize the versatile therapeutic potential of ginsenosides.

Simultaneous determination of six bioactive saponins from Rhizoma Panacis Japonici in rat plasma by UHPLC-MS/MS: Application to a pharmacokinetic study

A specific, sensitive and rapid ultra high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of six major bioactive constituents in Rhizoma Panacis Japonici (RPJ), including oleanolic acid-type chikusetsusaponin V, IV, hemsgiganoside B, damarane-type ginsenoside Rb1, Rg1 and Re in rat plasma, using estazolam as the internal standard (IS). Plasma samples were pretreated with methanol/acetonitrile (1:1, V/V) for protein precipitation. Chromatographic separation was performed on an Agilent Eclipse Plus C₁₈ column, using a gradient mobile phase consisting of methanol and 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution. A tandem mass spectrometric detection with an electrospray ionization (ESI) interface was conducted via multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) under positive ionization mode. For all the six analytes of interest, the calibration curves were linear in the concentration range of 2.00-500 ng/mL with r ≥ 0.9956. The intra- and inter-day precisions (in terms of relative standard deviation, RSD) were all below 10.2% and the accuracies (in terms of relative error, RE) were within -5.0% to 6.3% for all six analytes. Extraction recovery, matrix effect and stability data all met the acceptance criteria of FDA guideline for bioanalytical method validation. The developed method was applied to the pharmacokinetic study in rat. After oral administration of the total saponins from RPJ, six analytes were quickly absorbed into the blood and presented the phenomenon of double peaks. Among the six analytes, ginsenoside Rb1 showed slowest elimination from plasma with a t_1/2z of 16.00 h, while that of the others were between 1.72 and 5.62 h. In conclusion, the developed method was successfully used to simultaneously analyze major oleanolic acid-type and damarane-type saponins of RPJ in rat plasma after oral administration.

Mechanism Analysis of Selective Adsorption and Specific Recognition by Molecularly Imprinted Polymers of Ginsenoside Re

In this article, the molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) of ginsenoside Re (Re) were synthesized by suspension polymerization with Re as the template molecule, methacrylic acid (MAA) as the functional monomers, and ethyl glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as the crosslinker. The MIPs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and surface porosity detector, and the selective adsorption and specific recognition of MIPs were analyzed using the theory of kinetics and thermodynamics. The experimental results showed that compared with non-imprinted polymers (NIPs), MIPs had a larger specific surface area and special pore structure and that different from the Langmuir model of NIPs, the static adsorption isotherm of MIPs for Re was in good agreement with the Freundlich model based on the two adsorption properties of MIPs. The curves of the adsorption dynamics and the lines of kinetic correlation indicate that there was a fast and selective adsorption equilibrium for Re because of the affinity of MIPs to the template rather than its analogue of ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1). The study of thermodynamics indicate that the adsorption was controlled by enthalpy and that MIPs had higher enthalpy and entropy than NIPs, which contributed to the specific recognition of MIPs.

Ginsenoside Re protects methamphetamine-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity in mice via upregulation of dynorphin-mediated κ-opioid receptor and downregulation of substance P-mediated neurokinin 1 receptor

BACKGROUND

We previously reported that ginsenoside Re (GRe) attenuated against methamphetamine (MA)-induced neurotoxicity via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials. We also demonstrated that dynorphin possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials against dopaminergic loss, and that balance between dynorphin and substance P is important for dopaminergic neuroprotection. Thus, we examined whether GRe positively affects interactive modulation between dynorphin and substance P against MA neurotoxicity in mice.

METHODS

We examined changes in dynorphin peptide level, prodynorphin mRNA, and substance P mRNA, substance P-immunoreactivity, homeostasis in enzymatic antioxidant system, oxidative parameter, microglial activation, and pro-apoptotic parameter after a neurotoxic dose of MA to clarify the effects of GRe, prodynorphin knockout, pharmacological inhibition of κ-opioid receptor (i.e., nor-binaltorphimine), or neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor (i.e., L-733,060) against MA insult in mice.

RESULTS

GRe attenuated MA-induced decreases in dynorphin level, prodynorphin mRNA expression in the striatum of wild-type (WT) mice. Prodynorphin knockout potentiated MA-induced dopaminergic toxicity in mice. The imbalance of enzymatic antioxidant system, oxidative burdens, microgliosis, and pro-apoptotic changes led to the dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Neuroprotective effects of GRe were more pronounced in prodynorphin knockout than in WT mice. Nor-binaltorphimine, a κ-opioid receptor antagonist, counteracted against protective effects of GRe. In addition, we found that GRe significantly attenuated MA-induced increases in substance P-immunoreactivity and substance P mRNA expression in the substantia nigra. These increases were more evident in prodynorphin knockout than in WT mice. Although, we observed that substance P-immunoreactivity was co-localized in NeuN-immunreactive neurons, GFAP-immunoreactive astrocytes, and Iba-1-immunoreactive microglia. NK1 receptor antagonist L-733,060 or GRe selectively inhibited microgliosis induced by MA. Furthermore, L-733,060 did not show any additive effects against GRe-mediated protective activity (i.e., antioxidant, antimicroglial, and antiapoptotic effects), indicating that NK1 receptor is one of the molecular targets of GRe.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that GRe protects MA-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity via upregulatgion of dynorphin-mediated κ-opioid receptor and downregulation of substance P-mediated NK1 R.

Comprehensive Profiling and Quantification of Ginsenosides in the Root, Stem, Leaf, and Berry of Panax ginseng by UPLC-QTOF/MS

The effective production and usage of ginsenosides, given their distinct pharmacological effects, are receiving increasing amounts of attention. As the ginsenosides content differs in different parts of Panax ginseng, we wanted to assess and compare the ginsenosides content in the ginseng roots, leave, stems, and berries. To extract the ginsenosides, 70% (v/v) methanol was used. The optimal ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS) method was used to profile various ginsenosides from the different parts of P. ginseng. The datasets were then subjected to multivariate analysis including principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA). A UPLC-QTOF/MS method with an in-house library was constructed to profile 58 ginsenosides. With this method, a total of 39 ginsenosides were successfully identified and quantified in the ginseng roots, leave, stem, and berries. PCA and HCA characterized the different ginsenosides compositions from the different parts. The quantitative ginsenoside contents were also characterized from each plant part. The results of this study indicate that the UPLC-QTOF/MS method can be an effective tool to characterize various ginsenosides from the different parts of P. ginseng.

Ginsenoside Re prevents angiotensin II-induced gap-junction remodeling by activation of PPARγ in isolated beating rat atria

AIMS

Ginsenoside Re (G-Re), a major ginsenoside in ginseng, has many beneficial pharmacological effects on negative cardiac contractility, electromechanical alternans, antiarrhythmia, angiogenic regeneration and cardiac electrophysiological function. However, effects of G-Re on gap-junction remodeling are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of G-Re on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced downregulation of connexin-40 (CX40) and -43 (CX43) in beating rat left atria.

MAIN METHODS

In this study, the isolated perfused beating rat atrial model was used and atrial gap-junction remodeling was induced by Ang II. In vivo hemodynamic experiments were analyzed with a biological recorder. Changes in protein expression were analyzed by western blot.

KEY FINDINGS

G-Re attenuated Ang II-induced abnormal changes in heart rate, MAP, LVESP, LVEDP, +dp/dt max, -dp/dt min, P wave amplitude, P-R interval and P wave length. This indicated a dose-dependent preventive role against Ang II-induced hyper hemodynamics in rats. Atrial activities of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1) were significantly increased by Ang II, as was expression of atrial collagen I and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2). Atrial CX40 and CX43 expression was downregulated by Ang II. These Ang II-induced atrial effects were blocked by G-Re, as well as rosiglitazone, an agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), in a dose-dependent manner. However, this inhibition was abolished by the PPARγ inhibitor GW9662.

SIGNIFICANCE

G-Re may suppress Ang II-induced downregulation of CX40 and CX43, by activating PPARγ signaling, in isolated perfused beating rat atria.

Simultaneous quantification six active compounds in rat plasma by UPLC-MS/MS and its application to a pharmacokinetic study of Pien-Tze-Huang

Pien-Tze-Huang (PZH) is a popular traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula in China, but its pharmacokinetics has not been investigated yet. To better study the pharmacokinetic behaviors of PZH, an optimal ultra-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed for rapid quantification of six compounds (notoginsenoside R1, ginsenosides Re, Rg1, Rb1, Rd, and muscone) in rat plasma after oral administration of PZH. All analytes were extracted by protein precipitation with acetonitrile and separated on a Waters Acquity Cortecs C18 column within 3.9min, and detected by multiple-reaction monitoring in positive ion mode. This proposed method exhibited good linearity (r≥0.9932) with a lower quantification limits of 0.558-1.566ng/mL for all analytes. The intra- and inter-day precisions were within 8.24%, and the accuracy was within -10.05 to 9.87% for each analyte. The extraction recovery for each analyte ranged from 80.02 to 96.12%. This UPLC-MS/MS method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study for PZH in rats.

Ginseng-berry-mediated gold and silver nanoparticle synthesis and evaluation of their in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxicity effects on human dermal fibroblast and murine melanoma skin cell lines

There has been a growing interest in the design of environmentally affable and biocompatible nanoparticles among scientists to find novel and safe biomaterials. Panax ginseng Meyer berries have unique phytochemical profile and exhibit beneficial pharmacological activities such as antihyperglycemic, antiobesity, antiaging, and antioxidant properties. A comprehensive study of the biologically active compounds in ginseng berry extract (GBE) and the ability of ginseng berry (GB) as novel material for the biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (GBAuNPs) and silver nanoparticles (GBAgNPs) was conducted. In addition, the effects of GBAuNPs and GBAgNPs on skin cell lines for further potential biological applications are highlighted. GBAuNPs and GBAgNPs were synthesized using aqueous GBE as a reducing and capping agent. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized for their size, morphology, and crystallinity. The nanoparticles were evaluated for antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, antibacterial, and cytotoxicity activities and for morphological changes in human dermal fibroblast and murine melanoma skin cell lines. The phytochemicals contained in GBE effectively reduced and capped gold and silver ions to form GBAuNPs and GBAgNPs. The optimal synthesis conditions (ie, temperature and v/v % of GBE) and kinetics were investigated. Polysaccharides and phenolic compounds present in GBE were suggested to be responsible for stabilization and functionalization of nanoparticles. GBAuNPs and GBAgNPs showed increased scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radicals compared to GBE. GBAuNPs and GBAgNPs effectively inhibited mushroom tyrosinase, while GBAgNPs showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, GBAuNPs were nontoxic to human dermal fibroblast and murine melanoma cell lines, and GBAgNPs showed cytotoxic effect on murine melanoma cell lines. The current results evidently suggest that GBAgNPs can act as potential agents for antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and antibacterial activities. In addition, GBAuNPs can be further developed into mediators in drug delivery and as antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and protective skin agents in cosmetic products. Consequently, the study showed the advantages of using nanotechnology and green chemistry to enhance the natural properties of GBs.

Effects of processing method on the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of orally administered ginseng

Background

The use of different methods for the processing of ginseng can result in alterations in its medicinal properties and efficacy. White ginseng (WG), frozen ginseng (FG), and red ginseng (RG) are produced using different methods. WG, FG, and RG possess different pharmacological properties.

Methods

WG, FG, and RG extracts and pure ginsenosides were administered to rats to study the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution characteristics of the following ginsenosides—Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rd. The concentrations of the ginsenosides in the plasma and tissues were determined using UPLC-MS/MS.

Results

The rate and extent of absorption of Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rd appeared to be affected by the different methods used in processing the ginseng samples. The areas under the plasma drug concentration-time curves (AUCs) of Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rd were significantly higher than those of the pure ginsenosides. In addition, the AUCs of Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rd were different for WG, FG, and RG. The amounts of Rg1, Re, Rd, and Rb1 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the tissues than those of the pure ginsenosides. The amounts of Re, Rb1, and Rd from the RG extract were significantly higher than those from the WG and FG extracts in the heart, lungs, and kidneys of the rats.

Conclusion

Our results show that the use of different methods to process ginseng might affect the pharmacokinetics and oral bioavailability of ginseng as well as the tissue concentrations of Rg1, Re, Rd, and Rb1.

Development and validation of an UPLC-Q/TOF-MS assay for the quantitation of neopanaxadiol in beagle dog plasma: Application to a pharmacokinetic study

Neopanaxadiol (NPD), the main panaxadiol constituent of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (Araliaceae), has been regarded as the active component for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. However, few references are available about pharmacokinetic evaluation for NPD. Accordingly, a rapid and sensitive method for quantitative analysis of NPD in beagle dog plasma based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was developed and validated. Analytes were extracted from plasma by liquid-liquid extraction and chromatographic separation was achieved on an Agilent Zorbax Stable Bond C₁₈ column. Detection was performed in the positive ion mode using multiple reaction monitoring of the transitions both at m/z 461.4 → 425.4 for NPD and internal standard of panaxadiol. All validation parameters, such as lower limit of quantitation, linearity, specificity, precision, accuracy, extraction recovery, matrix effect and stability, were within acceptable ranges and the method was appropriate for multitude sample determination. After oral intake, NPD was slowly absorbed and eliminated from circulatory blood system and corresponding plasma exposure was low. Application of this quantitative method will yield the first pharmacokinetic profile after oral administration of NPD to beagle dog. The information obtained here will be useful to understand the pharmacological effects of NPD.

Profiling of ginsenosides in the two medicinal Panax herbs based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry

As the king of herb plants, ginseng has been used for nearly 5000 years in medicines in Asia and recently in the West. Ginsenosides, the main active constituents in Panax herbs, have prominent immunoregulatory effects. Although extensively studied in the roots, ginsenosides have not been studied with regard to their profiles and natural variations in the leaf, stem, petiole, lateral root, and main roots during development or among species. In this study, a sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry method with a shorter chromatographic running time was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of ten ginsenosides. Comparing ginsenoside contents in various parts during different developmental stages revealed part-specific accumulation of most ginsenosides. Further investigation indicated that Rg3 accumulated at significantly higher levels in the petiole of P. ginseng than in that of P. quinquefolius. The relative ratio of ginsenoside Rb2 to Rb1 appears to be a candidate metabolic marker for identifying the ginseng cultivar within a diverse collection of ginseng accessions. In addition, the PCA showed that aboveground parts differed significantly between species and can be considered as species-specific markers rather than roots. This comprehensive survey, providing reliable, affordable and adequate scientific evidence, could be used to differentiate two species and discriminate ginseng cultivar ages.