Dietary ginsenosides for longevity: from biosynthesis and bioactive potential to functional food applications

Ginsenosides, a class of bioactive substances, exhibit multi targets and notable anti-aging properties. However, their application as functional food ingredients is still limited. This review begins by examining the research advancements related to key drivers of aging, including mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. By integrating data from network pharmacology and molecular docking, it systematically reviews the intervention effects of ginsenosides on aging mechanisms that the regulation of cellular senescence and the maintenance of mitochondrial function and intestinal flora homeostasis. Biosynthesis strategies provide a viable pathway for the industrial production of ginsenosides and the development of functional foods. Furthermore, structural modifications combined with targeted delivery systems, supported by AI, have been strategically employed to enhance bioavailability and unlock their full bioactive potential as functional food ingredients. This work highlights the necessity of dietary ginsenosides in aging management based on the health burden of aging, and proposes an integrated strategy covering biosynthesis, mechanisms, AI-driven delivery applications and safety verification. It provides a comprehensive perspective on ginsenosides as functional food ingredients for evidence-based aging management.