Search Results (667)

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is highly sensitive to heat stress caused by climate change; thus, the introduction of heat-tolerant cultivars is essential. However, the stable dissemination of heat-tolerant cultivars remains limited due to low propagation efficiency. Plant tissue culture has been introduced as an alternative approach, yet in vitro-grown ginseng often exhibit low survival rates during acclimatization, thereby restricting their practical application. This study was conducted as a fundamental investigation to address this limitation by comparing the morphological, histological, physiological, and metabolic differences between ginseng plants grown in vitro and ex vitro. The results demonstrated that in vitro-grown ginseng had stems and roots that were approximately 30% shorter, less prominent taproot development, and more than 30% lower root fresh weight. These plants also contained about 50% lower chlorophyll content and 52% higher stomatal density compared with ex vitro-grown ginseng. Histologically, in vitro plants exhibited narrow intercellular spaces, underdeveloped root cambium, and lignin deposition in cell walls. Metabolically, in vitro-grown ginseng was clearly distinguishable based on ginsenoside content and volatile compound profiles. The comprehensive findings of this study provide baseline information for future research and can be utilized to enhance the practicality of tissue culture-based micropropagation of ginseng. Full article

Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer (P. ginseng) is a medicinal plant rich in bioactive components such as ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and volatile oils and is widely used in both the pharmaceutical and food industries. While the AP2/ERF gene family is well-documented to play crucial roles in plant growth, development, and defense responses, functional studies on this gene family in P. ginseng remain unreported. Our genome-wide analysis identified 318 PgAP2/ERF family members, which are classified into five subfamilies: AP2, DREB, ERF, RAV, and Soloist. Homology analysis revealed that segmental duplication serves as the primary evolutionary driver for the PgAP2/ERF gene family in P. ginseng. RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated that all PgAP2/ERF members in the DREB-A1 subgroup respond to cold stress. Specifically, we found that the DREB-A1 member PgAP2/ERF187 plays a pivotal role in the cold stress response, with its expression specifically induced by ABA. Overexpression of PgAP2/ERF187 in Arabidopsis significantly enhanced the expression of cold tolerance-related genes. Subcellular localization analysis confirmed the co-localization of PgABF and PgAP2/ERF187 in the nucleus. Combining transcription factor interaction predictions and yeast one-hybrid experiments, we propose that PgABF likely regulates PgAP2/ERF187 expression by directly binding to its promoter region. These findings unveil the potential mechanism of the “PgABF-PgAP2/ERF187” regulatory module within the ABA signaling pathway during P. ginseng’s cold stress adaptation, thereby providing novel theoretical insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying P. ginseng’s cold resistance. Full article

Models that predict the 3D structure of proteins enable us to easily analyze the structure of unknown proteins. Though many of these models have been found to be accurate, their application in plant proteins is not always entirely accurate. Thus, we aimed to develop a versatile yet simple pipeline that can predict novel proteins with a specific function. As an example, via benchmark studies, we sought to discover novel UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) potentially involved in ginsenoside biosynthesis. Since the functionality of these UGTs has been shown to be determined by a few amino acids, a 3D-structure-based pipeline was required. Our pipeline includes four sequential steps: a sequence-based homology search, AlphaFold3-based 3D structure prediction, docking simulations with ginsenoside intermediates using SwissDock and CB-Dock2, and MPEK analysis to assess interaction stability. Through the application of this benchmark, we optimized the role of each module in the pipeline and successfully identified four novel UGT candidates. These candidates are predicted to catalyze the conversion of protopanaxadiol (PPD) to compound K (CK) or protopanaxatriol (PPT) to ginsenoside F1. This pilot study demonstrates how our pipeline can be used for the functional annotation of plant proteins and the discovery of enzymes involved in specialized pathways. Full article

Considering the multiple benefits of nutraceuticals, and given the growing interest in exploring these effects, understanding their mechanisms and implications in mental well-being and neurological integrity is essential and requires further examination to clarify their therapeutic potential. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in plant-derived nutraceuticals, particularly regarding their impact on mental health and brain function, by examining their bioactive components, their involvement in neuropsychiatric conditions, their role in neurodegeneration, emerging nutraceuticals with clinical relevance, and gut microbiome interactions with nutraceuticals and phytochemicals. Essential fatty acids, prebiotics, phytochemicals, and nutrients such as amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to mood regulation and cognitive function. Nutraceuticals can prevent or slow neurodegeneration by targeting misfolded proteins and modulating oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and dysregulated signaling pathways. Phytochemicals act as phytopsychobiotics, influencing mental health through gut microbiome modulation and generation of bioactive metabolites. Hypericum and curcumin exert neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antidepressant effects. Ginsenosides promote neuroprotection, partially via gut microbiome-mediated mechanisms. Administration of Ginkgo biloba polysaccharides and lavender essential oil improves neurotransmitter regulation, intestinal barrier integrity, and depressive-like behaviors in preclinical models. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, anthocyanins, quercetin, catechins, and chlorogenic acid support neuroprotection and cognitive function via modulation of beneficial gut bacteria, short-chain fatty acid production, anti-inflammatory effects, and serotonin metabolism. The landscape of nutraceuticals offers a diverse range of dietary options with considerable potential to promote mental health and prevent neurodegeneration, but further research is required to elucidate how the gut microbiome may enhance these bioactivities. Full article

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, where conventional chemotherapy is often limited by severe side effects and drug resistance. Ginsenosides, the primary bioactive triterpenoid saponins isolated from the root of Panax ginseng C. A. Mey, have demonstrated potential in combating non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, their efficacy under nutrient-deficient conditions remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ginsenosides on the growth and death of lung cancer cells under low-nutrient conditions and to explore the underlying mechanisms. A549 cells were divided into two groups: one cultured in 10% serum and another under serum-free conditions, followed by treatment with ginsenosides CK, Rh2(S), and Rg3(S) for 24 h. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated using a CCK-8 assay, Calcein/PI fluorescence staining, Hoechst 33258 staining, and flow cytometry. Potential targets and signaling pathways of ginsenosides were predicted using network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses. The mRNA expression of key genes was measured by qRT-PCR, and mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed using JC-1 staining. The results showed that ginsenosides induced dose-dependent apoptosis in serum-starved A549 cells. Bioinformatics analysis suggested the involvement of the PI3K/Akt/FoxO signaling pathway, which was supported by decreased Akt mRNA levels and increased FoxO mRNA expression. Furthermore, mRNA levels of Bim, Caspase-3, Caspase-8, and Caspase-9 were significantly upregulated, accompanied by a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. These findings indicate that under serum deprivation, ginsenosides enhance apoptosis in A549 cells, likely through the regulation of the PI3K/Akt/FoxO pathway. Full article

Ginsenosides, the primary bioactive components of Panax ginseng, exhibit diverse pharmacological properties, ranging from anticancer to neuroprotective effects. However, traditional production by ginseng cultivation faces limitations due to extended growth cycles, insufficient yields, intricate extraction processes, and significant environmental dependencies. Synthetic biology and synthetic metabolic engineering offer promising alternatives for sustainable manufacturing of essential bioactive compounds, including ginsenosides. First, this review describes the ginsenoside biosynthesis pathways, emphasizing crucial enzymes (e.g., HMG-CoA reductase, squalene epoxidase, dammarenediol-II synthase, amyrin synthase, and various UDP-glycosyltransferases) and their regulatory networks. Understanding these fundamental pathways enables rational engineering of production systems. Second, it examines current synthetic biology approaches, encompassing plant cell, tissue, and hairy root cultures, engineered microbial hosts including Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli, and cell-free enzymatic synthesis. Third, it evaluates the medicinal significance, market prospects, and industrial feasibility of these biomanufactured compounds. Finally, it analyzes the sustainability of production models and explores the emerging potential of engineered plant chassis. These advanced methodologies directly address traditional agricultural constraints and establish a robust framework for future ginsenoside synthesis. Full article

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating neurological condition marked by primary mechanical damage followed by a complex secondary injury cascade, in which oxidative stress plays a central role. Mitochondrial dysfunction, ionic imbalance, and inflammatory responses drive excessive generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, leading to lipid peroxidation, protein and DNA damage, apoptosis, and progressive neurological impairment. Antioxidant-based therapies have emerged as promising neuroprotective strategies, with compounds such as A91 peptide, curcumin, edaravone, ginsenosides, and glutathione demonstrating preclinical efficacy in reducing oxidative damage, restoring redox balance, modulating signaling pathways (e.g., Nrf2, NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt), and enhancing neuronal survival. While therapeutic outcomes depend on injury severity, timing, and combinatorial approaches, translating these findings into clinical practice and integrating antioxidants with cell-based therapies, biomaterials, and rehabilitation offers a critical avenue for improving functional recovery in SCI. Full article

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a widespread, multifaceted disorder involving overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative liver injury, and dysfunction of the brain’s dopaminergic reward circuits. Korean red ginseng (KRG), an herbal supplement derived from Panax ginseng, has demonstrated qualities potentially useful to the treatment of AUD, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic effects. This review examines active constituents of KRG, their pharmacological actions, and evidence supporting KRG’s therapeutic potential in the context of AUD, while also assessing its safety profile, adverse effects, and potential drug interactions. KRG’s main bioactive constituents, ginsenosides, appear to have roles in modulating alcohol-metabolizing enzymes, ethanol-activated inflammatory cytokine cascades, and neurological systems disrupted by AUD, including GABAergic and dopaminergic pathways. Evidence from animal models and limited small-scale human trials suggests KRG may alleviate symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, enhance cognitive performance, and attenuate anxiety through these pathways. While generally safe for consumption, several case reports and animal studies have indicated KRG’s potential to pose a variety of risks in vulnerable populations at high, prolonged doses, including hepatotoxicity, cardiovascular changes, mood disturbances, and hormonal effects. Furthermore, KRG’s neuromodulating role and influence on cytochrome P450 enzymes make it liable to interact with several medications, including warfarin, midazolam, selegiline, and serotonergic agents. Overall, KRG shows promise as a complementary supplement in managing aspects of AUD, though current evidence is limited by low sample sizes, inconsistent reports regarding nuances of ginsenosides’ mechanisms, and a low number of human trials. Further human-focused research is needed to elucidate its safety, efficacy, and mechanism. Full article

This study aims to further analyze the chemical characteristics of mountainous forest cultivated ginseng (MFCG) and garden ginseng (GG), concerning their calcium oxalate crystals, organic acids, and ginsenosides. The results demonstrate that MFCG had higher levels of non-free oxalate, calcium oxalate crystals, and most ginsenosides, while GG had higher fumaric acid/total organic acids. The content of non-free oxalate and calcium oxalate crystals in rhizome was the highest, showing a positive correlation with the growth years (5–20 years). In most cases, in MFCG, non-free oxalic acid ≥ 0.8%, calcium oxalate ≥ 160/mg, fumaric acid/total organic acids < 9%, Rb1 ≥ 6 mg/g, PPD/PPT was close to 2, and Rb1/Ro ≥ 2.5, while in GG, non-free oxalic acid < 0.8%, calcium oxalate ≤ 60/mg, fumaric acid/total organic acids ≥ 9%, Rb1 < 6 mg/g, PPD/PPT was close to 1, and Rb1/Ro < 2.5. These results can be used as the basis for distinguishing between GG and MFCG. Chemometric analysis of non-free oxalate, calcium oxalate crystals, and ginsenosides could distinguish MFCG from GG. Chemometric analysis of succinate, citrate, and malonic acids could mostly differentiate MFCG of over 15 years from that of less than 12 years. As far as we know, the present study is the first to determine the difference in the ratio of ginsenosides (Rb1/Ro, PPD/PPT) and the ratio of organic acids, which provides an innovative method for the distinction between the two and a scientific basis for effective quality control of MFCG. Full article

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a valuable medicinal plant whose primary active components, known as ginsenosides, play a significant role in anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic effects. WRKY transcription factors represent a prominent class of transcription factors in higher plants, fulfilling essential functions in numerous processes such as plant growth and development, reactions to biotic and abiotic stresses, and the control of secondary metabolism. This study is based on the laboratory’s previous bioinformatics analysis of the WRKY gene family in ginseng. After in-depth analysis, the PgWRKY064-04 gene was identified, which is significantly associated with ginsenosides. The physicochemical properties and expression patterns of this gene were analyzed, indicating that its expression in ginseng is temporally and spatially specific. A subcellular localization vector for this gene was constructed, confirming that it functions in the cell nucleus. Subsequently, overexpression vectors and interference vectors for PgWRKY064-04 were constructed, and ginseng adventitious roots were transformed using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, successfully yielding positive materials. Gene expression levels and saponin content in the positive materials were detected, preliminary findings indicate that the expression of the PgWRKY064-04 gene is negatively correlated with the biosynthesis of ginsenosides. This study complements research on the functional roles of WRKY transcription factor family genes in ginseng, paving the way for future efforts to enhance ginsenoside production using modern biotechnological approaches. Full article

This study investigated individual/combined nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) deficiencies on ginseng root aroma using GC–MS metabolomics. Four treatments (normal supply, N deficiency (LN), K deficiency (LK), and dual deficiency (LNLK)) were analyzed. Deficiencies impaired growth, mineral accumulation, and induced oxidative stress, suppressing ginsenoside biosynthesis. From 1768 detected VOCs, 304 compounds (rOAV ≥ 1) significantly contributed to aroma. LN inhibited terpenoids (e.g., isoborneol) but upregulated sulfur compounds (e.g., di-2-propenyl tetrasulfide), intensifying pungency. LK enhanced sweet/woody notes (e.g., 2′-acetonaphthone) via flavonoid biosynthesis and toluene degradation. LNLK reduced esters (e.g., benzyl acetate) and terpenes, attenuating floral–balsamic nuances by coordinating aromatic degradation, glutathione metabolism, and ABC transporters. N–K nutrition dynamically shapes ginseng aroma by differentially regulating phenylpropanoid, terpenoid, and sulfur pathways, providing a foundation for precision fertilization and quality improvement. Full article

Preformed porous media (PPM) technology has emerged as a transformative approach to enhance heat and mass transfer in vacuum freeze-drying (VFD) of agricultural and food products. This review systematically analyzes recent advances in PPM research, with particular focus on spray freeze-drying (SFD) as the dominant technique for precision pore architecture control. Empirical studies confirm PPM’s efficacy: drying time reductions of 20–50% versus conventional VFD while improving product quality (e.g., 15% higher ginsenoside retention in ginseng, 90% enzyme activity preservation). Key innovations include gradient porous structures and multi-technology coupling strategies that fundamentally alter transfer mechanisms through: resistance mitigation via interconnected macropores (50–500 μm, 40–90% porosity), pseudo-convection effects enabling 30% faster vapor removal, and radiation enhancement boosting absorption by 40–60% and penetration depth 2–3 times. While inherent VFD limitations (e.g., low thermal conductivity) persist, we identify PPM-specific bottlenecks: precision regulation of pore structures (<5% size deviation), scalable fabrication of gradient architectures, synergy mechanisms in multi-field coupling (e.g., microwave-PPM interactions). The most promising advancements include 3D-printed gradient pores for customized transfer paths, intelligent monitoring-feedback systems, and multiscale modeling bridging pore-scale physics to macroscale kinetics. This review provides both a critical assessment of current progress and a forward-looking perspective to guide future research and industrial adoption of PPM-enhanced VFD. Full article

The increasing demographic aging of society is a great challenge to the healthcare sector and raises the socio-economic burden. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms of aging and developing safe effective anti-aging products to prolong people’s healthy lifespan are paramount nowadays. Panax ginseng has been highly regarded since ancient times for its ability to enhance health and prolong life. However, its main active substances of anti-aging and their mechanisms are not fully understood. In this research, Caenorhabditis elegans was used as a model organism to explore and confirm the key active substances from Panax ginseng and the mechanisms that exert anti-aging effects. Various ginsenoside compounds were evaluated based on longevity, anti-stress, physiological function, etc. Ginsenoside Re, which has powerful anti-aging activity, was screened. In the follow-up trials, transcriptomics and RT-qPCR techniques were used to investigate the mechanism of Re in exerting its anti-aging properties. Differential genes were enriched in the Insulin/Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Signaling (IIS) pathway, the neuropeptide signaling pathway, and lipid metabolism. A significant increase in the expression levels of daf-16, sgk-1, skn-1, hsf-1, hsp-16.2, sod-3, gst-4, fil-2, lips-11, cyp-35A4, and aex-2 genes, and a significant decrease in the expression levels of daf-2, age-1, and akt-2 genes were verified. These suggest that ginsenoside Re exerts its life-extending influence by regulating lipid metabolism and the IIS pathway. Full article

Twin-screw extrusion is a promising method to transform medicinal herbs into functional food ingredients. However, limited research has focused on the application of this technique to ginseng–astragalus compounds. In this study, the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extrusion process (screw speed, temperature, and moisture content). The optimal parameters (208 rpm, 128 °C, 29%) significantly increased ginsenoside, polysaccharide, phenolic content, and antioxidant capacities (DPPH•, OH•, O₂⁻•). Furthermore, extrusion improved the aroma profile while reducing bitterness, as revealed by electronic nose and electronic tongue, and PCA. The treated product also exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity. These findings demonstrate that twin-screw extrusion is an effective tool for developing medicinal food products with improved quality and biofunctionality. The response surface methodology model showed high reliability (R² > 0.95) with prediction errors and relative standard deviations below 5%, confirming the robustness of the optimization. Full article

This study aims to develop a gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-based ginsenoside Rb3 (G-Rb3) drug delivery system and investigate its application in the treatment of periodontitis and the underlying mechanisms. Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) were obtained and identified. The appropriate concentration ranges of G-Rb3 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were investigated by the CCK-8 experiments. Quantitative RT-PCR, ELISA, and Western blot were performed to assess the effects of GelMA@G-Rb3 on LPS-treated PDLSCs. The possible mechanisms were determined through network pharmacology analysis and Western blot. The therapeutic effects of GelMA@G-Rb3 in rat periodontitis animal models were systematically evaluated using Micro-CT, H&E staining, Masson staining, and immunofluorescence staining. PDLSCs were successfully isolated and characterized. The in vitro results indicated that GelMA@G-Rb3 significantly alleviated LPS-induced inflammation in PDLSCs by inhibiting the p38/ERK signaling pathway and activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. In vivo experiments confirmed that GelMA@G-Rb3 significantly reduced alveolar bone resorption, and promoted periodontal tissue regeneration, while simultaneously demonstrating significant regulatory effects on the MAPK signaling pathway. This study demonstrated the efficacy of the GelMA@G-Rb3 system in modulating the inflammatory responses of periodontitis and improving the periodontal tissue regeneration, which establish a solid foundation and proposed innovative therapeutic approaches for the treatment of periodontitis. Full article