Heonsik Kim, University of Ulsan College of Medicine

1. Overview

Ginseng is renowned for its pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer activity and immune enhancement, largely attributed to its component called ginsenoside. Ginsenosides are neutral glycosides of bisdesmoside that bind various sugars to the dammarane skeleton of the triterpenoid series. There are approximately 40 identified types of ginsenoside components, categorized into protopanaxadiol (PPD) and protopanaxatriol (PPT) types based on their chemical structures. Major saponins of the PPD family include Rb1, Rb2, Rb3, Rc, Rd, Rg3, Rh2, and the aglycone PD, while major saponins of the PPT family include Rg1, Rg2, F1, Rh1, and the aglycone PT.

Ginseng saponins can be further classified into major and minor saponins based on their content in ginseng. Major saponins, including Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, and Rg1, constitute over 90% of total saponins. These major saponins are transformed into minor saponins like Rg3, Rh1, and Rh2 through hydrolysis by intestinal microorganisms, which enhances their absorbability. Minor saponins exhibit superior medicinal effects compared to major saponins in terms of anti-cancer activity, immunity enhancement, blood improvement, and dementia prevention.

While global consumption and sales of ginseng and related products amount to approximately KRW 3 trillion annually, research on ginsenosides remains relatively low due to challenges in obtaining sufficient samples. However, recent advancements in synthetic biological methods have made it easier to secure minor saponins, allowing for more systematic studies on their pharmacological effects, particularly in immune enhancement and anti-cancer activities. This report focuses on the immune function regulation effects of ginsenosides and the importance of identifying the activities of individual ginsenosides for selective immune function modulation.

2. Immune function regulation by ginseng saponins (ginsenosides)

The immune system is crucial for defending the body against cancer cells and external pathogens. Several studies have demonstrated the immune-enhancing effects of ginseng. Research in Denmark and Japan has highlighted ginseng’s ability to improve immune function and prevent colds. In Korea, Korean red ginseng has been extensively studied for its immunomodulatory effects, showing promotion of T lymphocyte proliferation, increased cytotoxic lymphocyte activity, and inhibition of cancer cell metastasis. Ginseng extracts have also been associated with the regulation of inflammatory factors, further supporting their role in immune function modulation.

However, the specific relationship between ginsenosides, the active ingredients in ginseng, and immune activity is still unclear due to limited systematic research. Among ginsenosides, Rg1 and Rg3 have been particularly linked to immunity enhancement and anti-cancer effects. While Rg1 is predominantly associated with immunity enhancement, Rg3 has shown promise in cancer treatment, although the exact mechanisms remain unknown.

3. Regulation of NK cell and macrophage function by ginsenosides

Natural Killer (NK) cells play a critical role in immune surveillance against cancer and viral infections. Ginseng polysaccharides and extracts have been reported to enhance NK cell activity, but research on the specific ginsenosides responsible for this effect is lacking. Ginsenosides such as Rg1 and Rh2 have shown potential in enhancing NK cell activity in animal models, suggesting their potential therapeutic applications in NK cell-related diseases. Additionally, ginsenosides have been found to modulate macrophage function, with some, such as CK, Rb1, Rc, Re, Rg1, and Rg5, alleviating inflammatory responses associated with various diseases.

4. Considerations

Although research on ginseng and ginsenosides has been extensive, there is a need for more systematic studies to elucidate their immune-modulating effects. Previous research has primarily focused on ginseng extracts, and there is limited understanding of the specific immune functions regulated by individual ginsenosides. Future research should aim to systematically identify the immune-modulating activities of each ginsenoside, paving the way for personalized immune function control and disease treatment. The development of synthetic biological methods for mass-producing standardized ginsenosides holds promise for addressing these research gaps and advancing ginsenoside-based immune function regulation.

The above information is a translation of a news article about Korean ginseng in Korea. The actual efficacy of ginseng may vary depending on individual circumstances and environments. SeoulGinseng adheres to laws and regulations and does not make explicit claims about the treatment of diseases in its advertisements. Instead, it mentions general claims about the potential health benefits of Korean ginseng or its scientifically validated efficacy, such as immune system enhancement, fatigue improvement, blood circulation enhancement, and stamina enhancement. We recommend consulting a doctor before consuming our ginseng products, and SeoulGinseng does not take responsibility for the health consequences of following this information. Especially for those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, it’s essential to consult with a doctor before consuming our ginseng products.

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