Panax Ginseng Root Extract Exhibits Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties by Diminishing Oxidative Stress Levels and Modulating the NF-κB Signaling Pathway at Both the Cellular and Tissue Levels in the Skin
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background Panax ginseng root extract (PGRE), rich in bioactive ginsenosides, has been widely recognized for its potential health benefits. However, its skincare efficacy, particularly in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, remains to be fully elucidated. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the skincare efficacy of PGRE using primary keratinocytes and a 3D human epidermal model (EpiKutis ® ), focusing on its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and barrier repair mechanisms. Methods The cytotoxicity of PGRE was assessed at a concentration of 50 μg/mL, and its anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated by measuring the suppression of IL-1α, PGE2, and NF-κB activation. The antioxidant activity of PGRE was tested under 4-HNE-induced oxidative stress by quantifying reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction. Additionally, the modulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway was investigated to understand its role in mitigating inflammatory feedback loops. Results PGRE at 50 μg/mL showed no cytotoxicity (>80% cell viability) and demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing IL-1α (34.17%), PGE2 (20.70%), and NF-κB activation (43.65%). Under oxidative stress conditions, PGRE significantly reduced ROS levels by 51.6%, highlighting its strong anti-carbonylation activity. Furthermore, PGRE effectively modulated the NF-κB signaling pathway, mitigating inflammatory feedback loops and underscoring its multitarget mechanism in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Conclusion PGRE exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a promising natural ingredient for anti-aging and anti-inflammatory skincare formulations. These findings suggest that PGRE could play a vital role in barrier repair and inflammation modulation. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate these in vitro results and to explore the role of NF-κB in PGRE's anti-inflammatory and barrier repair mechanisms.
Source: Natural Product Communications
Authors: Bo-Zheng Zhang, Hao-Yang Yu, Chao-Fan Tian, Min Yu, Yun-Ha Lee, Zhi Xiong
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,650
OpenAlex ID: W4413895627