Saponin Fraction from Korean Red Ginseng Has Anti-platelets Effects by Regulating Cyclic Nucleotides in U46619-induced Human Platelets

Physiological platelet activation plays a crucial role in hemostasis; however, excessive or dysregulated activation contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disorders such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and stroke. Consequently, discovering novel bioactive compounds capable of modulating platelet function represents an important strategy for preventing and managing these diseases. Recent studies have indicated that the saponin fraction isolated from Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunoregulatory activities. Despite these findings, its specific influence on platelet activation and thrombus formation, and the signaling mechanisms involved, remain insufficiently characterized. The present study aimed to elucidate the effects of the ginseng-derived saponin fraction on platelet responses and thrombus development. Exposure of platelets to the saponin fraction resulted in a marked elevation of intracellular cyclic nucleotides (cAMP and cGMP) and promoted phosphorylation of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP₃R). These alterations in signaling cascades led to reduced cytosolic Ca²⁺ mobilization and impaired activation of integrin αIIb/β3, thereby diminishing fibrinogen binding affinity. Furthermore, the formation of thrombin-induced fibrin clots was significantly attenuated in a concentration-dependent manner. Chemical profiling by HPLC coupled with evaporative light scattering detection (HPLC–ELSD) revealed that the saponin fraction contained high levels of ginsenosides Rg1, Rg2, and Rg3—components previously associated with antiplatelet activity. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the Korean red ginseng–derived saponin fraction, enriched in Rg1, Rg2, and Rg3, may exert protective cardiovascular effects by suppressing platelet activation and thrombus formation, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate for cardiovascular health.