Administration Of Ginseng Extract Research Articles

Ginseng extract improves pancreatic islet injury and promotes β-cell regeneration in T2DM mice.

Panax ginseng C. A. Mey. (Araliaceae; Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma), a traditional plant commonly utilized in Eastern Asia, has demonstrated efficacy in treating neuro-damaging diseases and diabetes mellitus. However, its precise roles and mechanism in alleviating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) need further study. The objective of this study is to explore the pharmacological effects of ginseng extract and elucidate its potential mechanisms in protecting islets and promoting β-cell regeneration. The T2DM mouse model was induced through streptozotocin combined with a high-fat diet. Two batches of mice were sacrificed on the 7th and 28th days following ginseng extract administration. Body weight, fasting blood glucose levels, and glucose tolerance were detected. Morphological changes in the pancreatic islets were examined via H & E staining. Levels of serum insulin, glucagon, GLP-1, and inflammatory factors were measured using ELISA. The ability of ginseng extract to promote pancreatic islet β-cell regeneration was evaluated through insulin & PCNA double immunofluorescence staining. Furthermore, the mechanism behind β-cells regeneration was explored through insulin & glucagon double immunofluorescence staining, accompanied by immunohistochemical staining and western blot analyses. The present research revealed that ginseng extract alleviates symptoms of T2DM in mice, including decreased blood glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance. Serum levels of insulin, GLP-1, and IL-10 increased following the administration of ginseng extract, while levels of glucagon, TNF-α, and IL-1β decreased. Ginseng extract preserved normal islet morphology, increased nascent β-cell population, and inhibited inflammatory infiltration within the islets, moreover, it decreased α-cell proportion while increasing β-cell proportion. Mechanistically, ginseng extract might inhibit ARX and MAFB expressions, increase MAFA level to aid in α-cell to β-cell transformation, and activate AKT-FOXM1/cyclin D2 to enhance β-cell proliferation. Our study suggests that ginseng extract may be a promising therapy in treating T2DM, especially in those with islet injury.

Ameliorative effect of Panax quinquefolius on sodium arsenite induced toxicity in Charles Foster rats

An estimated 70 million population are exposed to arsenic poisoning in India in the 2020. The present study is aimed to develop the antidote for arsenic-induced toxicity in Charles Foster rats. A total of n=18 rats (12 weeks old) of an average weight of 160 ± 20 g were used for the study. The study group included three groups, n=6 control (Group I: Untreated ) and n= 12 (group II) treated with sodium arsenite orally at the dose of 8mg/Kg b.w daily for 6 months. The n= 6 animals were dissected and the rest n=6 (Group III) was administered orally with Panax quinquefolius (Ginseng) root ethanolic extract at 300mg/Kg body weight per day for 8 weeks. All the animals were sacrificed after the completion of their respective doses and their blood samples were taken for haematological and biochemical evaluation, while the vital tissues such as liver and kidneys for the histopathological study. The study revealed significant fluctuation (p<0.0001/p<0.001/p<0.05) in the haematological parameters viz. leukocyte count, haemoglobin, red blood cell count, haematocrit percentage, MCV, MCH and MCHC and biochemical parameters such as SGPT, SGOT, ALP, bilirubin, urea, uric acid, creatinine and lipid peroxidation in arsenic-treated groups. There was a significant reduction (p<0.0001/p<0.001/p<0.05) in the levels of haematological and biochemical parameters after the administration of ginseng extract. Similarly, the histopathological study revealed a high magnitude of degeneration in the hepatocytes and nephrocytes after the treatment of arsenic, but after the administration of ginseng extract, there was significant restoration at the cellular level. Thus, the root extract of P. quinquefolius possessed significant ameliorative properties against arsenic-induced toxicity in rats.

Manufacture and characterization of optimized red ginseng drinks containing herbal medicine extracts.

The optimum mixing ratio of red ginseng, herbal medicine extracts, and oligosaccharides for diabetic improvement was investigated and verified through animal experiments. Using the optimum mixing technique, 2% red ginseng extract, 15% oligosaccharides, and 83% herbal medicine extracts were determined to be optimal for red ginseng beverages. The taste was improved as the amount of red ginseng decreased and oligosaccharides increased, whereas antioxidative activity was increased with increased red ginseng. In the animal model in which streptozotocin was administered to BALB-c mice, the red ginseng administration group exhibited lower blood glucose than the diabetic control group, and the blood glucose level was lower in the herbal medicine and red ginseng extract administration group. Insulin concentration was slightly increased by the red ginseng beverage, and hepatotoxicity due to excessive intake of red ginseng beverages was not detected.

POTENTIAL AMELORATIVE EFFECT OF PANAX GINSENG ON HEPATORENAL DAMAGE OCUURED IN HYDROXUREA-TREATED RATS

Hydroxyurea (HU) is an anti-neoplastic drug which is used for treatment of many types of tumors; however, its wide range of deleterious effects may limit its medical usage. This study was conducted to assess the possible protective role of Panax ginseng extract (Ginseng) against HU- induced hepato-renal damage in rats. Forty male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four equal groups (10 rats each). Group I (control) received 1ml purified water. Group II (Ginseng-treated) received 200 mg/kg body weight (b.wt) of Panax ginseng extract. Group III (HU-treated) received HU at a dose of 500 mg/ kg b.wt. Group IV (HU plus ginseng) received HU and Panax ginseng extract in similar doses of group II and III. All the treatments were administrated orally. Treatment with Panax ginseng failed to ameliorate the hematological alterations caused by HU, but, its ability to alleviate hepato-renal cytotoxic effect was proved through significant reduction in plasma level of hepato-renal injury biomarkers (AST, ALT, GGT, urea and creatinine) which were elevated in HU-treated group. Also, this effect was affirmed by decreased level of plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) and enhanced anti-oxidant state (decreased MDA content and increased GPX activity) of hepato-renal tissues upon Panax ginseng extract administration with HU. Histopathologically, HU induced impairments in both hepatic and renal tissues of the treated rats. Conversely, concurrent administration of ginseng with HU partially improved these alterations.Key words: hydroxyurea; hepato-renal toxicity; Panax ginseng; rats

Chronic dietary ginseng extract administration ameliorates antioxidant and cholinergic systems in the brains of aged mice

BackgroundBlack ginseng has a more potent biological activity than non-steamed ginseng. We investigated the effects of long-term intake of dietary black ginseng extract (BG) on antioxidant activity in aged mice. We also compared the effects of BG on cognitive deficits with those of white ginseng extract (WG) and red ginseng extract (RG). MethodsTen-month-old mice were fed an AIN-93G-based diet containing 10 g/kg (low dose, L) or 30 g/kg (high dose, H) WG powder, RG powder, or BG powder for 24 wk. We measured serum lipids, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, and malondialdehyde levels. Additionally, the protein expression levels of choline acetyltransferase and vesicular acetylcholine transporter, which are presynaptic cholinergic markers in the cortex and hippocampus of the brain, were measured by western blotting. ResultsTriglyceride levels were reduced in all the extract-treated mice, except those in the LBG group. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in the HBG group were higher than those in the control group. Total cholesterol levels were reduced in the LBG group. Additionally, glucose levels in the HBG group were significantly reduced by 41.2%. There were lower levels of malondialdehyde in the LBG group than in the control group. Furthermore, glutathione reductase activity increased in the HWG group and the HRG group. The protein expression levels of choline acetyltransferase and vesicular acetylcholine transporter significantly increased in all the ginseng-treated groups. ConclusionThe results suggest that supplementation with the tested ginseng extracts may suppress the cognitive decline associated with aging, via regulation of the cholinergic and antioxidant defense systems.

Fluoride Exposure Aggravates the Testicular Damage and Sperm Quality in Diabetic Mice: Protective Role of Ginseng and Banaba.

Fluoride toxicity is known to pose infertility in fluoride-intoxicated animals as well as in people residing in fluoride endemic zones. The present study addresses the degree of impairments caused due to co-exposure of high fluoride toxicity in diabetic mice. Swiss mice, Mus musculus, were subjected to fluoride toxicity by providing fluoride-supplemented drinking water (600ppm NaF) for a period of 30days after the confirmation of streptozotocin-induced diabetes(STZ, 50mg/kgbw). Consequently, aggravated hyperglycemia and tissue fluoride accumulation were witnessed in fluoride-intoxicated diabetic mice; later, these toxicated mice were treated with ginseng extract (GE) and banaba leaf extract, (BLE) at dose of 150mg/kgbw/day alone and in combination for 15 and 30-day duration to check the efficacy of phytoextracts in reversing the toxicity. The spermatological indices studied, such as sperm density, motility, viability and morphology as well as the testicular biochemical parameters showed enhanced impairment in reproductive status of fluoride-intoxicated diabetic mice. Further, 15-days administration of GE and BLE in combination at a dose of 150mg/kgbw/day was found to be beneficial in normalizing the alterations observed upon fluoride intoxication to diabetic mice. However, the correlates showed moderate association between blood glucose levels and the spermatological as well as biochemical indices wherein the tissue fluoride levels correlate least.

Intestinal absorption of Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma extract combined with Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma in rats

To investigate the changes in intestinal absorption of ginsenosides Rg₁, ginsenosides Re and ginsenosides Rd after combined administration of Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma extract and Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma, in order to confirm whether the combined administration is scientific and rational, and provide experimental basis for pharmaceutical studies of the formula. An in vivo single-pass perfusion method was performed to study the effect of various concentrations of ginsenosides Rg₁, ginsenosides Re, ginsenosides Rd on the intestinal absorption at duodenum, jejunum, ileum and colon. The concentrations of ginsenosides Rg₁, ginsenosides Re, ginsenosides Rd were determined by RP-HPLC.The absorption rate constant (Ka) and the apparent absorption coefficient(Papp) of ginsenosides Rg₁, ginsenosides Re, ginsenosides Rd were calculated.The result showed that ginsenosides Rg₁, ginsenosides Re, ginsenosides Rd had a high absorption rate on upper portion of the small intestine. The drug concentration had not significantly impact on the absorption rate, suggesting that ginsenosides Rg₁, ginsenosides Re, ginsenosides Rd were absorbed via passive diffusion.Volatile oil of Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma had obvious effect in enhancing intestinal absorption of ginsenosides Rg₁, ginsenosides Re, ginsenosides Rd, indicating that the combined administration of Ginseng extract and Acorus tatarinowii Schott is scientific and rational.

Effects ofPanax ginsengextract in practical diets for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) on growth performance, immune response and resistance toYersinia ruckeri

In a preliminary in vitro study, a Panax ginseng extract exhibited an evident antibacterial activity against Yersinia ruckeri and Lactococcus garvieae and affected the respiratory burst and proliferation of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss leukocytes. Subsequently, the effects of a dietary ginseng extract supplementation on growth, blood biochemical profile, innate immune response and resistance against Y. ruckeri infection were investigated in vivo in rainbow trout juveniles. Four experimental diets were obtained by adding 0.0%, 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.03% of ginseng ethanolic extract to a commercial feed. Each diet was fed to triplicate groups of fish (mean body weight 30.5 ± 0.15 g) at 1% of body weight day−1 for 10 weeks. The dietary supplementation with ginseng extract did not affect growth performance, feed utilization, biometric traits and fish whole body composition (P > 0.05). No major changes due to graded levels of ginseng extract in the diet were observed in blood biochemical parameters except for increasing plasma triglycerides and non-esterified fatty acids in fish fed diets including 0.01% and 0.02% of extract (P < 0.05). The innate immune response was barely modulated by the dietary addition of ginseng extract. Serum lysozyme and leukocytes respiratory burst activities were just slightly increased in fish fed all the ginseng extract-supplemented diets compared with controls, whereas serum antiproteases and leukocyte MPO were not affected (P > 0.05). The dietary administration of ginseng extract induced a reduction in mortality of rainbow trout infected with Y. ruckeri, although no significant differences between treated and control groups were observed (P > 0.05).

Ginseng extract attenuates early MRI changes after status epilepticus and decreases subsequent reduction of hippocampal volume in the rat brain

Prolonged epileptic seizures during status epilepticus (SE) are known to cause neuronal death and lead to brain damage. Lesions in various brain regions can result in memory and cognitive impairment, thus searching of new neuroprotective drugs is important. We evaluated effects of single and chronic administration of ginseng extract on early and late changes in MRI measurements in the rat brain after lithium-pilocarpine SE. Butanol extract of ginseng root cell culture DAN-25 was administered after termination of SE. MRI study of the rat brain was performed 2, 7, and 30 days after SE. High-resolution T2-weighed images and T2-maps were obtained, and total damaged area, hippocampal volume, and T2 relaxation time in several brain structures were calculated. Single administration of ginseng extract attenuated early changes in brain structures found on day 2 after SE. Both single and chronic treatment with ginseng extract decreased brain damage on day 7 after SE. An increase in T2-relaxation time in the hippocampus on day 2 after SE was less prominent in ginseng-treated rats than in saline-treated rats. 30 days after SE, the reduction of hippocampal volume was found both in saline-treated and ginseng-treated rats; however, it was less pronounced in ginseng-treated rats. We conclude that administration of ginseng extract after SE termination reduced brain damage caused by prolonged seizures. Ginseng extract was effective during early period after SE and had a specific protective effect on the hippocampus.

Pharmacokinetics of ginsenoside Rb1 and its metabolite compound K after oral administration of Korean Red Ginseng extract

Compound K is a major metabolite of ginsenoside Rb1, which has various pharmacological activities in vivo and in vitro. However, previous studies have focused on the pharmacokinetics of a single metabolite or the parent compound and have not described the pharmacokinetics of both compounds in humans. To investigate the pharmacokinetics of ginsenoside Rb1 and compound K, we performed an open-label, single-oral dose pharmacokinetic study using Korean Red Ginseng extract. We enrolled 10 healthy Korean male volunteers in this study. Serial blood samples were collected during 36 h after Korean Red Ginseng extract administration to determine plasma concentrations of ginsenoside Rb1 and compound K. The mean maximum plasma concentration of compound K was 8.35±3.19 ng/mL, which was significantly higher than that of ginsenoside Rb1 (3.94±1.97 ng/mL). The half-life of compound K was 7 times shorter than that of ginsenoside Rb1. These results suggest that the pharmacokinetics, especially absorption, of compound K are not influenced by the pharmacokinetics of its parent compound, except the time to reach the maximum plasma concentration The delayed absorption of compound K support the evidence that the intestinal microflora play an important role in the transformation of ginsenoside Rb1 to compound K.

Panax ginseng Extract Rich in Ginsenoside Protopanaxatriol Attenuates Blood Pressure Elevation in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats by Affecting the Akt-Dependent Phosphorylation of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase

Nitric oxide (NO) produced by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is a fundamental regulator of systemic blood pressure. Ginsenosides from Panax ginseng have been investigated in vitro for the molecular and biochemical mechanisms by which they stimulate NO release in vascular endothelial cells; however, little research has been done to confirm the physiological relevance of these in vitro studies. To address this research gap, the effects of a P. ginseng extract rich in ginsenosides from protopanaxatriol on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) was examined. Ginseng extract administration stimulated nongenomic Akt-mediated eNOS activation, enhanced NO production, improved vessel wall thickening, and alleviated hypertension in SHRs, confirming the physiological relevance of previous in vitro studies with ginsenosides.

Effect of Ginseng Extract Supplementation on Renal Functions in Diabetic Rats

As incidence of diabetes is increasing worldwide, besides it is associated with complications, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of a traditional botanical, ginseng on diabetes induced alterations in kidney functions. Thirty male rats were used in the study by randomly allocating them into three groups, each of ten rats, namely the control group, diabetes group (D), and diabetes+ ginseng group (DG). The latter two groups were rendered diabetic by I/P injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). Daily ginseng extract was administered orally (100 mg/kg BW), one week post streptozotocin (STZ) injection. Ninety days post STZ injection; rats were sacrificed, where serum and kidneys were obtained for determination of metabolic profile, serum electrolytes, kidney function tests, renal tissue enzymes, and renal antioxidant status, together with histopathology. The obtained results revealed a modest improvement in metabolic profile due to ginseng extract administration. However, the kidney functions were greatly improved as evidenced by amelioration of urea nitrogen, creatinine, total protein concentrations and serum electrolytes. Also an increase was noted in renal tissue enzymes and antioxidants with a decrease in malondialdehyde and renal pathology. In conclusion, ginseng extract may be of supportive treatment to combat diabetes complications.

Effects of ginseng onPseudomonas aeruginosamotility and biofilm formation

Biofilm-associated chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis are virtually impossible to eradicate with antibiotics because biofilm-growing bacteria are highly tolerant to antibiotics and host defense mechanisms. Previously, we found that ginseng treatments protected animal models from developing chronic lung infection by P. aeruginosa. In the present study, the effects of ginseng on the formation of P. aeruginosa biofilms were further investigated in vitro and in vivo. Ginseng aqueous extract at concentrations of 0.5-2.0% did not inhibit the growth of P. aeruginosa, but significantly prevented P. aeruginosa from forming biofilm. Exposure to 0.5% ginseng aqueous extract for 24 h destroyed most 7-day-old mature biofilms formed by both mucoid and nonmucoid P. aeruginosa strains. Ginseng treatment enhanced swimming and twitching motility, but reduced swarming of P. aeruginosa at concentrations as low as 0.25%. Oral administration of ginseng extracts in mice promoted phagocytosis of P. aeruginosa PAO1 by airway phagocytes, but did not affect phagocytosis of a PAO1-filM mutant. Our study suggests that ginseng treatment may help to eradicate the biofilm-associated chronic infections caused by P. aeruginosa.

Subchronic toxicity studies with ginsenoside compound K delivered to dogs via intravenous administration

Compound K, i.e., 20-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-20(S)-protopanaxadiol, is the main metabolite of the protopanaxadiol type of ginseng saponin produced by intestinal bacteria after oral administration of ginseng extract. In the present study, the toxicity of compound K was evaluated in male and female dogs after 90days continuous intravenous infusion. Beagle dogs were treated with compound K at doses of 6.7, 20 and 60mg/kg/day, and observed for 90days followed by recovery periods. Measurements included clinical observations, body weight, food consumption, temperature, electrocardiogram (ECG), hematology, blood chemistry, urinalysis, gross necropsy, organ weight and histopathology. Under the conditions, the clinical condition of the animals, body weights, body weight gains and food consumption were unaffected by compound K administration relative to the control group. Hematology, ECG data and urinalysis parameters were also unaffected. However, the hepatotoxicity was evident from the observation of multiple parameters, including histopathological evaluation of liver tissue upon necropsy as well as large increases in plasma levels of liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, ALT, Gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase, γ-GT, alkaline phosphatase,ALP) in groups receiving compound K (20 or 60mg/kg/day), and this hepatoxicity might be reversible. In addition, the NOAEL of compound K is 6.7mg/kg/day in this 90days toxicity study.

Effect of ginseng extract supplementation on testicular functions in diabetic rats

It was aimed to investigate the effect of standardized ginseng extract on fertility parameters in diabetic rats. Thirty male rats were randomly allocated into three groups of 10 rats each: 1. controls, 2. diabetes (D) and 3. diabetes + ginseng (DG). The latter two groups were rendered diabetic by i.p. injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 50 mg/kg). Standardized ginseng extract (Dansk Droge A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark) was administered per os (100 mg/kg BW) by stomach tube daily for 90 days starting one week after STZ. Ninety days post STZ the rats were sacrificed, and testis, epididymis, prostate, and seminal vesicles were weighed and subjected to histological examination. In addition, spermiogram, testicular enzyme markers, intratesticular steroid hormonal profile and testicular antioxidant status were estimated. The administration of ginseng extract resulted in a significant improvement of fertility parameters and testicular antioxidants together with a decrease in malondialdehyde and testicular pathological signs including degenerative changes of the seminiferous tubules. Ginseng extract may be a beneficial adjuvant therapy for diabetics suffering from infertility as a complication.

Korean ginseng extract attenuates reserpine-induced orofacial dyskinesia and improves cognitive dysfunction in rats

Reserpine-induced orofacial dyskinesia in rats is an animal model of tardive dyskinesia that has been linked with free radical generation and oxidative stress. In the present study, reserpine (1 mg kg−1, s.c.) was given to rats on days 1, 3 and 5 to induce orofacial dyskinesia, which is characterised by increased vacuous chewing and tongue protrusion. Sub-chronic treatment with Korean ginseng extract from day 1 to day 21 along with reserpine on days 1, 3 and 5 significantly and dose-dependently (100 and 200 mg kg−1) reduced reserpine-induced vacuous chewing movements and tongue protrusions. Reserpine-treated animals also showed poor retention of memory in the elevated plus maze paradigm. The sub-chronic Korean ginseng extract administration significantly reversed reserpine-induced retention deficits. Biochemical analysis revealed that repeated reserpine treatment significantly induced lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione (GSH) levels in the brains of rats. Reserpine-treated rats also showed decreased levels of antioxidant defence enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase. Sub-chronic administration of Korean ginseng extract dose-dependently and significantly reduced lipid peroxidation and restored decreased GSH levels by repeated reserpine treatment. It also significantly reversed the reserpine-induced decrease in brain SOD and catalase levels in rats. The present study concludes that oxidative stress might play an important role in reserpine-induced abnormal oral movements, and Korean ginseng extract could be useful in the treatment of drug-induced dyskinesia and amnesia.

Antioxidant and Apoptotic Effects of Korean White Ginseng Extracted with the Same Ratio of Protopanaxadiol and Protopanaxatriol Saponins in Human Hepatoma HepG2 Cells

To investigate the antioxidative effects of ginsenosides [protopanaxadiol derivatives (PD):protopanaxatriol derivatives (PT) = 1:1] from the roots of Korean ginseng, cell viability, malondialdehyde (MDA) production, antioxidant enzyme activities, and expressions of apoptosis were analyzed after pretreatment of human hepatoma HepG2 cells with H(2)O(2). Cell death was increased through H(2)O(2) treatment dose dependently, and a dose of ginseng extract (PD:PT = 1:1) of 18.6 microg/mL was enough to derive it in reverse. MDA production was reduced through the administration of ginseng extracts even with more intensive H(2)O(2) treatments. Through the use of even low levels of ginseng extract (e.g., 1.86 microg/mL), catalase (CAT) activity was easily reduced from the plateau induced by H(2)O(2). The glutathione peroxidase activity was no better than that of CAT. We assume that ginseng extract acts as an antioxidant even when effective levels of ginseng differ. A ginseng extract dose of 18.6 microg/mL increased the apoptotic expression of oxidative stressed signals, such as c-Jun-N-terminal kinase and stress-activated protein kinase expressions, and mitochondrial cytochrome c released caspase-3 activation; however, these expressions changed with higher doses of ginseng.

랫드에서 TCDD 투여에 의해 유도된 생체독성의 고려홍삼 추출물에 의한 억제 효과

TCDD가 실험동물에 노출되었을 때 유발되는 생체독성을 예방 또는 억제할 수 있는 고려홍삼 추출물의 효과를 탐색하였다. 이를 위하여 TCDD(<TEX>$25\;{\mu}g/kg$</TEX> bw, 1회 투여)와 홍삼추출물(100 mg/kg bw, 격일투여)을 각각 단독 또는 병행 복강 투여한 다음 32일 동안에 체중과 각 장기들의 무게의 변화, 뇨 분석, 혈액학적 및 혈액화학적 변화를 관찰하였다. TCDD의 단독투여에 의하여 체중의 증가정도가 정상군 또는 홍삼단독 투여군의 체중증가율에 비하여 상당히 감소하였다. TCDD와 홍삼추출물을 병행 투여한 흰쥐에서의 체중증가율은 TCDD 단독투여에 의해 감소된 체중증가율을 다소 회복 시키는 결과를 나타내었다. TCDD를 단독 투여한 실험군에서는 간의 무게가 TCDD 투여 후 2, 5, 및 16일째에 대조군에 비하여 특이적으로 증가하는 특징을 보였으나, 홍삼추출물을 단독 투여한 실험군에서의 간의 무게는 대조군의 간의 무게에 비하여 다소 감소하였다. TCDD와 홍삼추출물이 병행 투여된 흰쥐에서의 간의 무게의 증가정도는 TCDD을 단독투여한 흰쥐 간의 무게에 비하여 약간 감소하였다. TCDD를 단독투여한 흰쥐에서의 신장(Kidney)의 무게는 대조군에 비하여 다소 감소하였으나 통계적으로는 유의하지 않았다. TCDD와 홍삼추출물을 병행투여한 흰쥐에서의 신장의 무게의 변화는 TCDD를 단독 투여한 흰쥐에서의 결과와 차이가 없었다. 홍삼추출물 단독 투여군에서의 신장의 무게는 실험초기(1-2일)에 대조군에 비하여 다소 감소하는 경향을 보였으나 5일 째부터는 대조군과 같은 수준으로 회복되었다. Spleen은 TCDD의 단독투여에 의해 2-3일 이내에 일시적인 감소가 있었으나 노출기간이 증가할수록 대조군 수준으로 회복되었다. 홍삼추출물단독 투여군과 TCDD와 홍삼추출물의 병행투여군에서 spleen의 무게는 대조군에 비하여 투여 후 16일 이후에는 유의적으로 증가하였다. TCDD와 홍삼추출물의 단독 또는 병행 투여군에서의 뇌의 무게는 유의적인 변화를 보이지 않았다. 실험동물 뇨에서의 specific gravity는 대조군에서 주령에 상관없이 대체적으로 1.030 이상의 수준을 유지하였으나 홍삼추출물을 단독 투여한 흰쥐에서는 투여 후 14일부터 specific gravity가 1.02 수준으로 낮아지는 경향이 나타났다. TCDD 단독 투여군에서는 투여 초기에 specific gravity가 1.02 수준으로 감소하는 경향이 있었으나 홍삼추출물을 병행투여했을때 1.02 수준으로 감소하는 경향이 14일 이후에 나타났다. 실험동물 뇨에서의 Total protein 함량은 대조군에서 전체 실험기간 동안에 <TEX>$100\;{\mu}g/dL$</TEX> 수준을 유지하였으나, TCDD 단독 투여군과 TCDD와 홍삼추출물의 병행 투여군에서는 <TEX>$300\;{\mu}g/dL$</TEX> 이상의 함량을 나타내는 개체수가 증가하는 현상을 보였다. 한편, 홍삼추출물 단독 투여군에서는 대조군에서와 비슷한 Total protein 함량의 수준을 나타내었다. 뇨에서 ketone body의 함량은 대조군에서 주령의 증가에 따라 높아지는 경향을 나타내었으나 실험군 간의 차이는 나타나지 않았다. Glucose, ketone, bilirubin, Occult blood, nitrite 및 urobilinogen의 함량은 모든 실험군에서 거의 유사하게 나타났으며, pH 값은 주령의 증가에 따라 높아지는 경향이 특징적이었으나 실험군간의 차이는 나타나지 않았다. 혈액화학적 검사결과 TCDD의 단독투여에 의한 AST는 대조군에 비하여 전 실험기간에 걸쳐서 전반적으로 높게 나타났으며, 특히 32일 실험군에서 가장 높은 AST 값을 나타내었다. 홍삼추출물의 단독 투여에 의한 AST는 TCDD의 단독 투여군과는 대조적으로 오히려 노출기간이 경과할수록 감소하였다. 그리고 TCDD의 투여에 의해 증가된 AST는 홍삼추출물을 병행투여 한 지 16일부터 정상 수준으로 회복되었다. TCDD를 단독 투여한 흰쥐 혈청 ALT의 활성은 16일 까지는 대조군의 ALT 활성과 비슷한 수준이었으나 32일 째에는 대조군에 비하여 상당히 증가하였다. 이에 비하여 TCDD와 홍삼추출물을 병행 투여한 실험군에서는 16일군과 32일군에서 ALT의 활성이 급격히 감소하여 대조군의 ALT 활성보다 낮게 나타났다. 홍삼을 단독 투여한 실험군에서의 ALT 활성은 전 실험기간동안에 ALT 활성에 영향을 주지 않았다. To achieve a better understanding of protective effects of water extracts of Panax ginseng against TCDD-induced toxicities, we monitored physiological and clinical changes in rat for 4 weeks after administrations of each Panax Ginseng extract or TCDD, and co-administration of the two materials. For this study, 120 male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats weighing 190-210 g each (8 weeks old) were divided into four groups: TCDD-administered, co-administered group with TCDD and ginseng extract, ginseng extract-administered, and control group. The TCDD-administered group received single dose of TCDD in a corn oil vehicle (<TEX>$25\;{\mu}g/kg$</TEX> body weight) by intraperitoneal administration on Day 1. The Panax ginseng extracts-administered group received intraperitoneally 100 mg/kg body weight every other day for one month. For the co-administered group with TCDD and ginseng extracts, Panax ginseng extracts were intraperitoneally administered to rats at 100 mg/kg body weight every other day for one month after a single intraperitoneal dose of <TEX>$25\;{\mu}g$</TEX> of TCDD/kg body weight on Day 1. Panax ginseng extracts attenuated the mortality induced by TCDD administration. The extracts also slightly attenuated the TCDD-induced body weight loss. Administration of TCDD alone increased liver weight at 2, 5, and 16 days after administration of TCDD. Administration of Panax ginseng extracts rather decreased liver weight through whole the experimental period, but which was statistically insignificant. Administration of TCDD alone at <TEX>$25\;{\mu}g/kg$</TEX> body weight increased both serum enzyme activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) at 32 days, indicating that liver damage occurred maximally at that time. Ginseng extract administration caused insignificant changes in serum ALT, but gradually decreased in AST as the exposure time increased. Coadministration of TCDD and ginseng extracts caused serum AST activity to significant recovery to normal value at 16 days and 32 days after exposure to TCDD. The extracts also significantly decreased the TCDD-induced ALT activity after 16 days of TCDD administration. These results suggest that Panax ginseng extracts may possess a protective effect against TCDD-induced toxicities including hepatotoxicity in rats.

인삼의 지용성 추출물 투여가 면역기능에 미치는 영향

인삼의 지용성 성분을 2개월 및 6개월 동안 암환자에게 복용시킨 결과, 인삼의 지용성 성분은 CD4/CD8 비율과 자연살해세포의 수를 정상적으로 유지시킴으로써 암환자의 면역기능 유지에 효과가 있음을 보여주었다. 인삼의 지용성 성분을 2개월간 투여한 실험군의 87.5%에서, 6개월간 투여한 실험군의50%에서 암환자의 종양수치가 낮아지거나 정상범위에서 안정하게 유지되는 긍정적인 효과가 나타났다. 인삼의 지용성 성분을 6개월간 투여한 실험군에서 간 기능을 나타내는 GOT,GPT 및 ALP 수치와 신장 기능을 나타내는 BUN과 creatinine수치도 역시 정상 범위로 유지되어 인삼의 지용성 성분의 장기 복용이 간과 신장 기능에 긍정적인 효과를 가짐을 확인하였다. 따라서 인삼의 지용성 성분이 암환자들의 면역성 강화,간·신장 기능을 유지 및 개선시켜 건강에 도움을 주는 것으로 평가됨으로써 인삼의 지용성 성분을 암환자의 식이 및 항암보조제로서 적용할 수 있는 가능성을 제시하였다. 이러한결과는 비록 통계학적인 유의성은 없지만 본격적인 임상실험의 수행을 위한 기초 자료로서 충분한 가치를 가지므로, 이를바탕으로 대단위 개체를 대상으로 하는 본격적인 추가 임상실험 연구를 수행하여 인삼의 지용성 성분이 암환자의 항암및 면역기능 강화에 효과가 있음을 임상적으로 증명할 수 있을 것으로 기대한다. Lipid soluble ginseng extract was administered by oral route in doses of 600 mg/patient daily in cancer patients over 2 months and 6 months. The administration of ginseng extract in cancer patients maintained the ratio of CD4/CD8 and number of the natural killer cell in the normal range during the administration period. Also its administration showed a positive effect on tumor values in 87.5% of patients in 2 month-group and in 50% of patients in 6 month-group, as determined by various cancer markers. Liver and kidney functions maintained normal condition during administration period of 6 months. Although there was no statistical significance, these data suggest that lipid soluble ginseng extract may be useful as an adjuvant therapeutic agent and nutritional supplement for the improvement of immune function and health in cancer patients. This study would provide the basis for the research in which the antitumor and immunopotential activity of lipid soluble ginseng extract for cancer patients are evaluated in formal clinical trial with statistically significant patient number.

Chronic oral administration of ginseng extract results in behavioral change but has no effects in mice models of affective and anxiety disorders

Ginseng is a popular 'tonic' herb in Chinese traditional medicine with diverse biological activity. The core of ginseng's therapeutic abilities is thought to be its neuroprotective actions in increasing cellular resilience. These actions coincide with novel theories of affective and anxiety disorders and raise the possibility that ginseng may serve as medication for these common and devastating diseases. The present study was designed to explore the possible effects of chronic ginseng extract, administered in a clinically relevant schedule (similar to antidepressants) in animal models of affective and anxiety disorders. Groups of mice received chronic oral treatment with ginseng extract (500 mg/kg/day for 3 weeks) and were tested in a large open eld, in the emergence test for anxiolytic activity, the forced swim test for antidepressant activity and the amphetamine hyperactivity test for mood stabilizing activity. Chronic ginseng had a signicant effect on reducing spontaneous locomotor activity in the open eld test but not on the distribution of activity and had no inssuence on the performance of mice in any of the specic models. Although the extract used in this study contained signicant levels of ginsenosides, detailed analysis of the brain levels of the active ingredients of ginseng may be needed to make a far reaching conclusion. However, the doses and schedule of administration of ginseng used in the present study induced some behavioral changes but did not inssuence affective- and anxiety-like measures.