20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3

20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 is a tetracyclic triterpenoid saponin stereoisomer (C42H72O13, MW: 785.01 g/mol) derived from Panax ginseng (Korean/Asian ginseng) through thermal processing of major ginsenosides like Rb1, Rb2, and Rd. It is distinguished from its stereoisomer 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 by the spatial configuration at the C20 position. The compound exhibits multiple pharmacological activities including **anticancer** effects, demonstrated by reducing tumor volume, increasing tumor necrosis rates, and improving survival in human Lewis lung cancer models at 20 mg/kg dosing. Its anticancer mechanisms include inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, suppression of angiogenesis, and modulation of cancer stem cell properties. It also demonstrates **immunomodulatory** activity, with superior effects compared to its 20(S) stereoisomer, evidenced by increased OVA-specific IgG, IFN-γ, IL-5 levels, and enhanced splenocyte proliferative responses. The compound shows **concentration-dependent effects**: high concentrations (50-100 μg/ml) inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis, while lower concentrations promote cell growth through activation of mTORC1, mitochondrial biogenesis, and enhanced ATP content, independent of AKT and AMPK signaling. Unlike 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3, which is soluble in cold water, ethanol, methanol, and acetonitrile, 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 is only soluble in DMSO, with trace amounts being soluble in water and acetonitrile.

Other names

20(R)-Propanaxadiol20R-propanaxadiol