Ginsenoside-Re-rich ethanol extract of Panax ginseng berry enhances healthspan extension via mitostasis and NAD metabolism.

<h4>Background</h4>Ginseng Berry Concentrate (GBC) enhances exercise capacity in mice, but the effects of its key component, ginsenoside Re (G-Re), on aging and mitochondrial function are not well understood. This study investigates the impact of G-Re on mitophagy and its potential to promote healthy aging.<h4>Methods</h4>Experiments in C2C12 myocytes and HeLa-mitoKeima-PARKIN cells assessed GBC and G-Re's effects on mitophagy, supported by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. G-Re was identified as the primary component of GBC via high-performance liquid chromatography. The influence of G-Re on lifespan and healthspan(definition) was examined in <i>Caenorhabditis elegans</i>, with a focus on mitophagy pathways.<h4>Results</h4>GBC and G-Re significantly induced mitophagy and enhanced mitochondrial gene expression, improving mitochondrial function. G-Re extended lifespan and healthspan in <i>C. elegans</i>, effects absent in mitophagy-impaired mutants.<h4>Conclusion</h4>G-Re enhances mitochondrial function and promotes healthy aging through mitophagy, suggesting its potential for mitigating age-related functional declines.