Iron metabolism: An emerging therapeutic target underlying the anti-Alzheimer's disease effect of ginseng

• Published in: Journal of trace elements in medicine and biology 2023-09, Vol.79, p.127252-127252, Article 127252
• Main Authors: Li, Nan, Duan, Yu-han, Chen, Lei, Zhang, Kun
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Alzheimer's disease; Ferroptosis; Ginseng; Network pharmacology
• ISSN: 0946-672X; 1878-3252
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2023.127252

Finding neuroprotective drugs with fewer side effects and more efficacy has become a major problem as the global prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) rises. Natural drugs have risen to prominence as potential medication candidates. Ginseng has a long history of use in China, and it has a wide range of pharmacological actions that can help with neurological issues. Iron loaded in the brain has been linked to AD pathogenesis. We reviewed the regulation of iron metabolism and its studies in AD and explored how ginseng might regulate iron metabolism and prevent or treat AD. Researchers utilized network pharmacology analysis to identify key factive components of ginseng that protect against AD by regulating ferroptosis. Ginseng and its active ingredients may benefit AD by regulating iron metabolism and targeting ferroptosis genes to inhibit the ferroptosis process. The results present new ideas for ginseng pharmacological studies and initiatives for further research into AD-related drugs. To provide comprehensive information on the neuroprotective use of ginseng to modulate iron metabolism, reveal its potential to treat AD, and provide insights for future research opportunities. [Display omitted] •The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is high, its causes are diverse, and treatment options are limited.•The role of estrogen and ferroptosis in Alzheimer's disease is known.•Ginseng has estrogen-like effects and a regulatory role in Alzheimer's disease and iron metabolism.•This paper discusses for the first time the link between ginseng, ferroptosis, and Alzheimer's disease.•Using network pharmacology to mine drugs relevant to the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease.