Optimization of ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction of saponins from Panax zingiberensis stems and leaves

Sci Rep. 2025 Dec 19;16(1):3348. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-33315-w.

Abstract

This study aimed to optimize the extraction process of total saponins from the stems and leaves of Panax zingiberensis (SLPZ) and analyze its chemical composition. This study investigated the optimal extraction conditions for total saponins from the stems and leaves of Panax zingiberensis (SLPZ) via single-factor experiments and response surface methodology (RSM) optimization, and the optimal parameters were determined as follows: cellulase-to-pectinase ratio of 1%:5%, enzymatic hydrolysis pH 4.5, ultrasound temperature 55 °C, and ultrasound time 28.88 min. Under these conditions, the total saponin extraction rate from SLPZ reached 37.12%. UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis identified 42 saponin compounds, including 28 dammarane-type triterpenes, 7 oleanane-type triterpenes, and 7 other saponins. Among them, triterpenes comprising the majority (51.07%) of the total compounds detected. Diterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and monoterpenes accounted for 18.26%, 17.74%, and 12.93%, respectively. This study provides a theoretical basis for the comprehensive utilization of SLPZ resources.

Keywords: Panax zingiberensis; Response surface methodology; Total saponin content; UPLC-MS/MS.

MeSH terms

  • Cellulase / chemistry
  • Cellulase / metabolism
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
  • Hydrolysis
  • Panax* / chemistry
  • Plant Extracts* / chemistry
  • Plant Leaves* / chemistry
  • Plant Stems* / chemistry
  • Polygalacturonase / chemistry
  • Polygalacturonase / metabolism
  • Saponins* / chemistry
  • Saponins* / isolation & purification
  • Tandem Mass Spectrometry
  • Triterpenes / chemistry

Substances

  • Saponins
  • Plant Extracts
  • Triterpenes
  • Cellulase
  • Polygalacturonase