Purification and Characterization of $\beta$-Glucosidase and $\alpha$-Arabinofuranosidase Metabolizing Ginsenoside Rc from Bifidobacterium K-103

Ginsenoside, major components of ginseng have been reported to show various biological activities including an increase of cholesterol metabolism. stimulation of serum protein synthesis, immunomodulatory effects. To explain these pharmacological actions, it is thought that ginseng saponins should be metabolized by human intestinal bacteria after they are orally administered. (omitted)