Anti-Stress Effects of Berk. Enzymatic Extracts: A Preclinical Study.

Chronic stress disrupts neurochemical balance, triggers inflammation, and compromises neuronal integrity, contributing to the development of stress-related disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the preventative effects of Berk (TF) enzymatic extracts on chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced behavioral, neurochemical, and inflammatory dysfunctions in mice. Male C57BL/6N mice were administered TF at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg daily via oral gavage for 21 days during CRS exposure.

Korean Red Ginseng Improves Oxidative Stress-Induced Hepatic Insulin Resistance via Enhancing Mitophagy.

This study explored the potential of saponins from Korean Red Ginseng to target the PINK1/Parkin mitophagy pathway, aiming to enhance insulin sensitivity in hepatocytes-a key factor in metabolic disorders like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and type 2 diabetes. Results from both in vitro and in vivo experiments showed increased expression of PINK1 and Parkin, activating mitophagy and reducing oxidative stress through reduction in mitochondrial and total reactive oxygen species. Additionally, improvements in insulin signaling were observed, including the upregulation of phosphorylated IRS and AKT, and downregulation of gluconeogenic enzymes, underscoring the saponins' efficacy in boosting insulin sensitivity.