High-Value Bioconversion of Ginseng Extracts in Betaine-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents for the Preparation of Deglycosylated Ginsenosides

Imagine turning ginseng into a goldmine of rare, health-boosting compounds—using a green, protein-friendly solvent that outperforms traditional buffers. That's exactly what this new study achieves.

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) are emerging as the eco-friendly superheroes of biocatalysis, not just activating enzymes but supercharging their efficiency. In this study, researchers paired two enzymes—β-glucosidase BGLAt and β-galactosidase BGALAo—to strip sugar groups from ginseng extracts, producing valuable deglycosylated ginsenosides (De-g). The magic solvent? A betaine-ethylene glycol mix (1:2 molar ratio) that significantly boosted enzyme activity, acid resistance, and heat stability. In just 24 hours, this DES-based system converted 5 grams of ginseng extract into 1.24 grams of De-g (including F1, F2, 20(S)-PPT, and CK)—1.1 times more than a conventional buffer. Spectral data revealed the enzymes changed shape to bind substrates more effectively. Plus, a clever aqueous two-phase system recovered both the DES and De-g from the top phase, making the process scalable and greener. This isn't just a lab curiosity; it's a blueprint for sustainable natural product extraction.

Key Points

• Betaine-ethylene glycol DES boosts enzyme activity and stability.
• DES system yields 1.24 g De-g from 5 g ginseng extract.
• Aqueous two-phase system recovers DES and De-g efficiently.