Liu, H., et al. Harnessing natural saponins: Advancements in mitochondrial dysfunction and therapeutic applications.

Liu, H., et al. Harnessing natural saponins: Advancements in mitochondrial dysfunction and therapeutic applications.

Phytomedicine, 2025 Mar, 138:156383. PMID: 39848019

• The article reviews the therapeutic potential of natural saponins, particularly focusing on their role in modulating mitochondrial function and their implications for treating diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, such as neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Saponins, categorized into steroidal and triterpenic subclasses, exhibit a range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects. The review highlights specific saponins, such as ginsenoside Rg2, which enhance mitophagy and promote neuroprotection, while also addressing challenges related to their clinical applications. It advocates for further research, including clinical trials, to unlock the full therapeutic potential of saponins in medicine. 

• The article also discusses Quillaja saponins in the context of their role as immunoadjuvants and their potential applications in vaccine formulations. The complex structure of these saponins allows them to interact with immune cells, promoting a stronger immune reaction, making them valuable in improving the efficacy of vaccines.  

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