Functional roles and mechanisms of ginsenosides from Panax ginseng in atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Natural Products

Background:

• Atherosclerosis (AS) is a primary driver of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), characterized by inflammation, lipid accumulation, and plaque formation.
• Despite therapeutic advances, AS prevalence increases with age, necessitating novel treatments.
• Ginsenosides, derived from ginseng, exhibit diverse pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pharmacological functions of specific ginsenosides (Rb1, Rd, F, Rg1, Rg2, Rg3, and compound K) in the context of atherosclerosis.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms by which these ginsenosides exert their effects on AS.
• To provide insights for the development of novel anti-atherosclerosis therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on ginsenosides and atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of pharmacological activities and mechanisms of action.
• Focus on key ginsenosides including Rb1, Rd, F, Rg1, Rg2, Rg3, and compound K.

Main Results:

• Ginsenosides demonstrate significant anti-atherosclerotic properties.
• Mechanisms include anti-inflammatory effects, lipid metabolism regulation, and plaque stabilization.
• Specific ginsenosides show distinct therapeutic potentials against AS progression.

Conclusions:

• Active ginsenosides possess promising therapeutic potential for atherosclerosis.
• Understanding their mechanisms can guide the development of effective anti-cardiovascular drugs.
• Ginseng-derived compounds offer a natural avenue for managing cardiovascular disease burden.