The impact of irradiation on ginsenoside variations in red ginseng and its hypoglycemic effects in type 1 diabetic mice

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the impact of irradiation on the saponin content in red ginseng extract (ISERG) and its hypoglycemic effects using high-performance liquid chromatography and in vivo experiments. The results revealed a significant increase in the levels of red ginseng ginsenosides Rh4 and CK by 75.56% and 59.32% respectively after exposure to 15 kGy 60Co-γ irradiation. Furthermore, the administration of 500 mg/kg·BW 15 kGy 60Co-γ irradiated ISERG for 32 days demonstrated notable reductions in blood sugar levels and increased insulin levels in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) mice. Moreover, it effectively improved glucose and lipid metabolism, organ coefficient, and antioxidant related indicators in T1DM mice. The study also observed improvements in the expression levels of InsR, IRS1, and Sirt6 proteins, suggesting their potential in diabetes treatment. These findings highlight the promising application of irradiated red ginseng in the future.