UPLC-QTOF-MS/mS profiling and antioxidant activity of Ngoc Linh ginseng (<i>panax vietnamensis</i>) hairy root extract from zebrafish: insights into Keap1/Nrf2-dependent mechanisms

<i>Panax vietnamensis</i> (Ngoc Linh ginseng) hairy root extract (PV-HRE) was comprehensively analysed <i>via</i> UPLC–QTOF–MS/MS. The analysis revealed 41 phytochemical constituents, predominantly saponins, with the major bioactive compounds identified as 23,27-dihydroxypennogenin, decumbesterone A, phytolaccagenin, trillin, and nigakilactone H. By employing a zebrafish model under hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress, we demonstrated that PV-HRE pre-treatment significantly enhanced larval survival. Molecular investigations revealed Keap1/Nrf2 pathway-dependent mechanisms characterised by substantial upregulation of the antioxidant genes glutathione S-transferase pi 1 (<i>gstp1</i>) and peroxiredoxin 1 (<i>prdx1</i>). Comparative experiments with Nrf2-deficient zebrafish (<i>nfe2l2a^dl703)</i> confirmed the critical role of the pathway in mediating protective cellular responses. These findings substantiate the therapeutic potential of <i>Panax vietnamensis</i> hairy root extract as a sophisticated natural intervention for oxidative stress-related pathological conditions.