Unveiling the neuroprotective mystery of Kaixinsan: identifying and validating the neuroprotective ingredients under the perspective of gut – brain axis regulation

Kaixinsan (KXS) shows potential in treating cognitive dysfunction and can regulate the gut-brain axis. However, its effective components remain unclear. In this study, the components of KXS extract distributed in serum, brain, heart, liver, lung, kidney, and ileum were detected. By analyzing the number and the concentration of identified components distributed in different tissues, potential active components of KXS were obtained. Then, the screened components were confirmed by evaluating their ability to inhibit Aβ_25-35-induced neuronal apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells. Finally, Ginsenoside Rg1, Ginsenoside Ro, α-asarone, 2,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid, and 3',6-disinapoylsucrose were found to be the potential active ingredients of KXS.