Abstract

Given the limited studies and conflicting findings, the transport character of ginsenosides crossing the blood–brain barrier (BBB) remains unclear. The present study was designed to qualitatively determine the distribution of ginsenosides in brain tissues after oral administration of ginseng total saponins, using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) combined with immunohistochemistry. In brain tissue homogenates, ginsenoside Rg1 was detectable and no other ginsenosides or their metabolites were found. No ginsenosides were detected in cerebrospinal fluid. Immunohistochemistry staining of brain tissue sections by using anti-ginsenoside polyclonal antibodies revealed the localization of ginsenosides in brain tissues. Furthermore, immunofluorescence double staining revealed that ginsenosides widely existed in vascular endotheliocytes and astrocytes, and in few neurons. These results indicated that Rg1 was the main component that entered the brain after oral administration of ginseng total saponins and that ginsenosides could cross the BBB, although the transport capability of ginsenosides through the BBB may be poor.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.