Abstract
Ginsenoside metabolite compound K (CK) is a degradation product of panaxadiol (Rb1, Rb2, Rc) in the intestine by bacteria and is the major form of ginsenoside absorbed in the body. Recently, the anti-arthritic effect of CK has been confirmed in adjuvant-induced arthritis rats and collagen- induced arthritis mice and also in in vitro experiments. CK can regulate the function of cells which are involved in rheumatoid arthritis including immune cells, endothelial cells and fibroblast synoviocytes resulting in the anti-arthritic effect. The mechanisms of these effects may be mediated by different signaling pathways including glucocorticoid receptors, Toll-like receptors, ion channels, NF-κB and MAPKs.
Keywords: Endothelial cells, fibroblast synoviocytes, ginsenoside metabolite compound K, immune cells, immunomodulation, rheumatoid arthritis.
Graphical Abstract