Vietnamese Ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha and Grushv.) Extract Finetunes Hematopoietic Stem Cell Senescence

Abstract

Introduction: Vietnamese ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv.), known for its protective properties, has shown potential benefits in various disease models. This study aimed to characterize a Vietnamese ginseng extract and investigate its effects on premature senescence in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) subjected to oxidative stress. Methods: The saponin content of the P. vietnamensis (PV) extract was quantified using HPLC. HSCs were isolated from the peripheral blood of multiple myeloma patients in complete remission. Cells were pretreated with PV extract (50, 100, 200, and 500 μg/mL) before senescence was induced with 100 μM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Anti-senescence effects were evaluated by cell viability (MTT assay) and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) staining. Gene expression analysis of key stemness and cell cycle regulatory markers was performed using qRT-PCR. Results: Pretreatment with the PV extract at all tested concentrations significantly enhanced HSC viability and reduced the percentage of SA-β-Gal-positive senescent cells compared to the H2O2-only control. Notably, the 100 μg/mL concentration was the most effective, demonstrating a robust anti-senescence effect. This was accompanied by the favorable upregulation of crucial genes involved in maintaining stemness and regulating the cell cycle. Discussion: This study has highlighted the potential of Vietnamese ginseng as a natural agent to counteract premature cellular senescence, suggesting its therapeutic utility in preserving the hematopoietic stem cell pool under conditions of chronic stress or age-related decline. Conclusion: An extract of Vietnamese ginseng (100 μg/mL) effectively protected HSCs against oxidative stress and premature senescence induced by H2O2.

Key Points