Ginsenoside Rb1 Deters Cell Proliferation, Induces Apoptosis, Alleviates Oxidative Stress, and Antimetastasis in Oral Squamous Carcinoma Cells

There are numerous therapeutic applications for ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1), the primary saponin derived from ginseng root. According to earlier research, ginsenoside Rb1 causes apoptosis and reduces the cell cycle. Its adverse effects, especially those on the development of the embryo, still need to be thoroughly studied. A host’s lifestyle choices, including smoking, drinking too much alcohol, using tobacco products, and having an HPV infection, can increase the risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), one of the most prevalent malignancies of the oral cavity. To address this challenge, this investigation focuses on the design of GRb1 for treating OSCC. In vitro cytotoxicity studies confirmed that GRb1 was more effective in PCI-9A and PCI-13 cells, with reduced toxicity in non-cancerous cells. Further verification of cellular morphology was achieved through various biochemical staining methods. The mechanism of cell death was investigated by Annexin V-FITC and PI methods. Additionally, the antimetastatic attributes of GRb1 have been evaluated using both migration scratch and Transwell migration assays, which have collectively revealed excellent antimetastatic potential. The DNA fragmentation of the PCI-9A and PCI-13 cells was assessed using a comet assay. Ginsenoside Rb1 improved ROS levels and caused mitochondrial membrane potential alterations and DNA damage, which resulted in apoptosis. OSCC administration significantly reduced the levels of SOD, GSH, GPx, and CAT, increasing the levels of PCI-9A and PCI-13 cells, while GRb1 improved this situation. Therefore, we propose that Ginsenoside Rb1 could be an alternative therapeutic strategy for OSCC therapy.