saikosaponin a

Saikosaponin A is a triterpene saponin and one of the main bioactive constituents isolated from the roots of *Bupleurum chinense* (Radix Bupleuri), a traditional medicinal plant widely used in East Asia. It consists of an oleanane-type triterpenoid aglycone linked to carbohydrate moieties[1][2][6]. Pharmacologically, saikosaponin A exhibits diverse biological activities including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective (notably anticonvulsant and antidepressant), hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antiviral and antitumor effects[2][7][9]. Mechanistically, it modulates multiple signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, JAK/STAT and NF-kB; inhibits N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor currents; enhances monoamine neurotransmitter levels; suppresses hippocampal inflammation; reduces oxidative stress; regulates apoptosis-related proteins (e.g., Bcl‑2 family); and influences gut microbiota composition[2][7][9]. Its broad activity profile has made it an object of interest for research into central nervous system disorders (including epilepsy and depression), liver diseases and inflammatory conditions.

Other names

beta-D-Galactopyranoside, (3beta,4alpha,16beta)-13,28-epoxy-16,23-dihydroxyolean-11-en-3-yl-6-deoxy-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-