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Cho HS, Kwon TW, Kim JH, Lee R, Bae CS, Kim HC, Kim JH, Choi SH, Cho IH, Nah SY. Gintonin Alleviates HCl/Ethanol- and Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16721. [PMID: 38069044 PMCID: PMC10705886 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gintonin, newly extracted from ginseng, is a glycoprotein that acts as an exogenous lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand. This study aimed to demonstrate the in vivo preventive effects of gintonin on gastric damage. ICR mice were randomly assigned to five groups: a normal group (received saline, 0.1 mL/10 g, p.o.); a control group (administered 0.3 M HCl/ethanol, 0.1 mL/10 g, p.o.) or indomethacin (30 mg/kg, p.o.); gintonin at two different doses (50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg, p.o.) with either 0.3 M HCl/ethanol or indomethacin; and a positive control (Ranitidine, 40 mg/kg, p.o.). After gastric ulcer induction, the gastric tissue was examined to calculate the ulcer index. The expression of gastric damage markers, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), and LPA2 and LPA5 receptors, were measured by Western blotting. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (PECAM-1), Evans blue, and occludin levels in gastric tissues were measured using immunofluorescence analysis. Both HCl/ethanol- and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers showed increased TNF-α, IL-6, Evans blue permeation, and PECAM-1, and decreased COX-2, PGE2, occludin, and LPA5 receptor expression levels. However, oral administration of gintonin alleviated the gastric ulcer index induced by HCl/ethanol and indomethacin in a dose-dependent manner. Gintonin suppressed TNF-α and IL-6 expression, but increased COX-2 expression and PGE2 levels in mouse gastric tissues. Gintonin intake also increased LPA5 receptor expression in mouse gastric tissues. These results indicate that gintonin can play a role in gastric protection against gastric damage induced by HCl/ethanol or indomethacin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Sung Cho
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; (H.-S.C.); (J.-H.K.)
| | - Tae Woo Kwon
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Ji-Hun Kim
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; (H.-S.C.); (J.-H.K.)
| | - Rami Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; (H.-S.C.); (J.-H.K.)
| | - Chun-Sik Bae
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Hoon Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Biosafety Research Institute, Chonbuk National University, Iksan-City 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Department of Animal Health, College of Health and Medical Services, Osan University, Osan-si 18119, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; (H.-S.C.); (J.-H.K.)
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Kim SJ, Nah SY, Park IH, Shin MS, Kang KS. Gintonin Isolated from Ginseng Inhibits the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Induced by TGF-β in A549 Lung Cancer Cells. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2013. [PMID: 37653930 PMCID: PMC10221604 DOI: 10.3390/plants12102013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EM transition) is a process wherein epithelial cells lose their intrinsic characteristics and cell-cell junctions and differentiate into a mesenchymal phenotype. EM transition is an important feature of cancer invasion and metastasis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of gintonin (GT), an ingredient of ginseng, on EM transition using A549 cells. The proliferation of A549 cells was enhanced following treatment with 50, 75, and 100 μg/mL of GT. GT affected EM transition-induced gene and protein expression, specifically that of vimentin (Vim), N-cadherin (N-cad), zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1, and Twist in A549 cells. Furthermore, the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 was suppressed by GT treatment. Immunofluorescence staining also showed that GT treatment decreased the TGF-β1-induced expression of Vim and N-cad in A549 cells. Therefore, GT may be used to suppress cancer cell metastasis via maintenance of the cell-cell junction's integrity. However, further studies are required to pave the way for its translation into clinical application in cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Jin Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Ho Park
- College of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung-Sook Shin
- College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Sung Kang
- College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
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Choi JH, Kwon TW, Jo HS, Ha Y, Cho IH. Gintonin, a Panax ginseng-derived LPA receptor ligand, attenuates kainic acid-induced seizures and neuronal cell death in the hippocampus via anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. J Ginseng Res 2022; 47:390-399. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Lee R, Cho HS, Kim JH, Cho HJ, Choi SH, Hwang SH, Rhim H, Cho IH, Rhee MH, Kim DG, Kim HC, Nah SY. A novel protocol for batch-separating gintonin-enriched, polysaccharide-enriched, and crude ginsenoside-containing fractions from Panax ginseng. J Ginseng Res 2022; 47:366-375. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
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Wang Y, Zhang JJ, Hou JG, Li X, Liu W, Zhang JT, Zheng SW, Su FY, Li W. Protective Effect of Ginsenosides from Stems and Leaves of Panax ginseng against Scopolamine-Induced Memory Damage via Multiple Molecular Mechanisms. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2022; 50:1113-1131. [PMID: 35475974 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x22500458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Although growing evidence has shown that ginsenosides from stems and leaves of Panax ginseng (GSLS) exercise a protective impact on the central nervous system, in the model of memory damage induced by scopolamine, it is still rarely reported. Thus, the mechanism of action needs to be further explored. This study was to investigate the effect of GSLS on scopolamine (SCOP)-induced memory damage and the underlying mechanism. Male ICR mice were treated with SCOP (3 mg/kg) for 7 days, with or without GSLS (75 and 150 mg/kg) treatment for 14 days. After GSLS treatment, the memory damage induced by SCOP was significantly ameliorated as shown by the improvement of cholinergic function (AChE and ChAT), brain tissue hippocampus morphology (H&E staining), and oxidative stress (MDA, GSH, and NO). Meanwhile, immunohistochemical assay suggested that GSLS increased the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and Tyrosine Kinase receptor B (TrkB). Further mechanism research indicated that GSLS inhibited the Tau hyperphosphorylation and cell apoptosis by regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway and inhibited neuroinflammation by regulating the NF-κB pathway, thereby exerting a cognitive impairment improvement effect. This work suggested that GSLS could protect against SCOP-induced memory defects possibly through inhibiting oxidative stress, inhibiting neuroinflammation and cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Gang Hou
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
- Intelligent Synthetic Biology Center, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Xin Li
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
| | - Jing-Tian Zhang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
| | - Si-Wen Zheng
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
| | - Feng-Yan Su
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ginseng Breeding and Development, Changchun 130118, P. R. China
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Lee R, Lee BH, Choi SH, Cho YJ, Cho HS, Kim HC, Rhim H, Cho IH, Rhee MH, Nah SY. Effects of Gintonin-enriched fraction on the gene expression of six lysophosphatidic receptor subtypes. J Ginseng Res 2021; 45:583-590. [PMID: 34803428 PMCID: PMC8587509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gintonin, isolated from ginseng, acts as a ginseng-derived lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand and elicits the [Ca2+]i transient through six LPA receptor subtypes (LPARSs). However, the long-term effects of gintonin-enriched fraction (GEF) on the gene expression of six LPARSs remain unknown. We examined changes in the gene expression of six LPA receptors in the mouse whole brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen, small intestine, colon, and testis after long-term oral GEF administration. Methods C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups: control vehicle and GEF (100 mg/kg, p.o.). After 21-day saline or GEF treatment, total RNA was extracted from nine mouse organs. Quantitative-real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot were performed to quantify changes in the gene and protein expression of the six LPARSs, respectively. Results qRT-PCR analysis before GEF treatment revealed that the LPA6 RS was predominant in all organs except the small intestine. The LPA2 RS was most abundant in the small intestine. Long-term GEF administration differentially regulated the six LPARSs. Upon GEF treatment, the LPA6 RS significantly increased in the liver, small intestine, colon, and testis but decreased in the whole brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys. Western blot analysis of the LPA6 RS confirmed the differential effects of GEF on LPA6 receptor protein levels in the whole brain, liver, small intestine, and testis. Conclusion The LPA6 receptor was predominantly expressed in all nine organs examined; long-term oral GEF administration differentially regulated LPA3, LPA4, and LPA6 receptors in the whole brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, small intestine, and testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Hwan Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Jin Cho
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Sung Cho
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Man Hee Rhee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Cell Signaling, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Amelioration of muscle wasting by gintonin in cancer cachexia. Neoplasia 2021; 23:1307-1317. [PMID: 34798386 PMCID: PMC8605064 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia is characterized by systemic inflammation, protein degradation, and loss of skeletal muscle. Despite extensive efforts to develop therapeutics, only few effective treatments are available to protect against cancer cachexia. Here, we found that gintonin (GT), a ginseng-derived lysophosphatidic acid receptor (LPAR) ligand, protected C2C12 myotubes from tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)/interferon γ (IFNγ)- induced muscle wasting condition. The activity of GT was found to be dependent on LPAR/Gαi2, as the LPAR antagonist Ki16425 and Gαi2 siRNA abolished the anti-atrophic effects of GT on myotubes. GT suppressed TNFα-induced oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen species and suppressing inflammation-related genes, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6) and NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX-2). In addition, GT exhibited anti-atrophy effects in primary normal human skeletal myoblasts. Further, GT protected against Lewis lung carcinoma cell line (LLC1)-induced cancer cachexia in a mouse model. Specifically, GT rescued the lower levels of grip strength, hanging, and cross-sectional area caused by LLC1. Collectively, our findings suggest that GT may be a good therapeutic candidate for protecting against cancer cachexia.
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Oh HJ, Jin H, Nah SY, Lee BY. Gintonin-enriched fraction improves sarcopenia by maintaining immune homeostasis in 20- to 24-month-old C57BL/6J mice. J Ginseng Res 2021; 45:744-753. [PMID: 34764729 PMCID: PMC8570963 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gintonin-enriched fraction (GEF) is a new non-saponin component glycolipoprotein isolated from ginseng root. This study examined the effect of GEF on age-related sarcopenia in old C57BL/6J mice. Methods Young (3–6 months) and old (20–24 months) C57BL/6J mice received oral GEF (50 mg/kg/day or 150 mg/kg/day) daily for 5 weeks. During the oral administration period, body weight and grip strength were measured weekly. After sacrifice, muscles from the hindlimb were excised and used for hematoxylin and eosin staining and western blotting to determine the effects of GEF on sarcopenia. The thymus was photographed to compare size, and flow cytometry was performed to examine the effect of GEF on immune homeostasis in the thymus and spleen. Blood samples were collected, and the concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines and IGF-1 were measured. Results GEF caused a significant increase in muscle strength, mass, and fiber size in old mice. GEF restored age-related disruption of immune homeostasis by maintaining T cell compartments and regulating inflammatory biomarkers. Thus, GEF reduced common low-grade chronic inflammatory parameters, which are the main cause of muscle loss. Conclusion GEF maintained immune homeostasis and inhibited markers of chronic inflammation, resulting in anti-sarcopenia effects in aged C57BL/6J mice. Thus, GEF is a potential therapeutic agent that slows sarcopenia in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Ji Oh
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Kyonggi, Republic of Korea
| | - Heegu Jin
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Kyonggi, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Boo-Yong Lee
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Kyonggi, Republic of Korea
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Choi SH, Won KJ, Lee R, Cho HS, Hwang SH, Nah SY. Wound Healing Effect of Gintonin Involves Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor/Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Signaling Pathway in Keratinocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10155. [PMID: 34576317 PMCID: PMC8467330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gintonin, a novel compound of ginseng, is a ligand of the lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor. The in vitro and in vivo skin wound healing effects of gintonin remain unknown. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of gintonin on wound healing-linked responses, especially migration and proliferation, in skin keratinocytes HaCaT. In this study, 2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide assay, Boyden chamber migration assay, scratch wound healing assay, and Western blot assay were performed. A tail wound mouse model was used for the in vivo test. Gintonin increased proliferation, migration, and scratch closure in HaCaT cells. It also increased the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in HaCaT cells. However, these increases, induced by gintonin, were markedly blocked by treatment with Ki16425, an LPA inhibitor, PD98059, an ERK inhibitor, 1,2-Bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid tetrakis (acetoxymethyl ester), a calcium chelator, and U73122, a PLC inhibitor. The VEGF receptor inhibitor axitinib also attenuated gintonin-enhanced HaCaT cell proliferation. Gintonin increased the phosphorylation of AKT and ERK1/2 in HaCaT cells. In addition, gintonin improved tail wound healing in mice. These results indicate that gintonin may promote wound healing through LPA receptor activation and/or VEGF release-mediated downstream signaling pathways. Thus, gintonin could be a beneficial substance to facilitate skin wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.-H.C.); (R.L.); (H.-S.C.)
| | - Kyung-Jong Won
- Department of Physiology and Medical Science, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea;
| | - Rami Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.-H.C.); (R.L.); (H.-S.C.)
| | - Han-Sung Cho
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.-H.C.); (R.L.); (H.-S.C.)
| | - Sung-Hee Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Health Sciences, Sangji University, Wonju 26339, Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (S.-H.C.); (R.L.); (H.-S.C.)
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Kim M, Sur B, Villa T, Yun J, Nah SY, Oh S. Gintonin regulates inflammation in human IL-1β-stimulated fibroblast-like synoviocytes and carrageenan/kaolin-induced arthritis in rats through LPAR2. J Ginseng Res 2021; 45:575-582. [PMID: 34803427 PMCID: PMC8587511 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In ginseng, there exists a glycolipoprotein complex with a special form of lipid LPAs called Gintonin. The purpose of this study is to show that Gintonin has a therapeutic effect on rheumatoid arthritis through LPA2 receptors. METHODS Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) were treated with Gintonin and stimulated with interleukin (IL)-1β. The antioxidant effect of Gintonin was measured using MitoSOX and H2DCFDA experiments. The anti-arthritic efficacy of Gintonin was examined by analyzing the expression levels of inflammatory mediators, phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, and translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)/p65 into the nucleus through western blot. Next, after treatment with LPAR2 antagonist, western blot analysis was performed to measure inflammatory mediator expression levels, and NF-κB signaling pathway. Carrageenan/kaolin-induced arthritis rat model was used. Rats were orally administered with Gintonin (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) every day for 6 days. The knee joint thickness, squeaking score, and weight distribution ratio (WDR) were measured as the behavioral parameters. After sacrifice, H&E staining was performed for histological analysis. RESULTS Gintonin significantly inhibited the expression of iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6 and COX-2. Gintonin prevented NF-κB/p65 from moving into the nucleus through the JNK and ERK MAPK phosphorylation in FLS cells. However, pretreatment with an LPA2 antagonist significantly reversed these effects of Gintonin. In the arthritis rat model, Gintonin suppressed all parameters that were measured. CONCLUSION This study suggests that LPA2 receptor plays a key role in mediating the anti-arthritic effects of Gintonin by modulating inflammatory mediators, the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mijin Kim
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bongjun Sur
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Thea Villa
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaesuk Yun
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seikwan Oh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Cho YJ, Choi SH, Lee RM, Cho HS, Rhim H, Kim HC, Kim BJ, Kim JH, Nah SY. Protective Effects of Gintonin on Reactive Oxygen Species-Induced HT22 Cell Damages: Involvement of LPA1 Receptor-BDNF-AKT Signaling Pathway. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26144138. [PMID: 34299412 PMCID: PMC8303475 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26144138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gintonin is a kind of ginseng-derived glycolipoprotein that acts as an exogenous LPA receptor ligand. Gintonin has in vitro and in vivo neuroprotective effects; however, little is known about the cellular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotection. In the present study, we aimed to clarify how gintonin attenuates iodoacetic acid (IAA)-induced oxidative stress. The mouse hippocampal cell line HT22 was used. Gintonin treatment significantly attenuated IAA-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, ATP depletion, and cell death. However, treatment with Ki16425, an LPA1/3 receptor antagonist, suppressed the neuroprotective effects of gintonin. Gintonin elicited [Ca2⁺]i transients in HT22 cells. Gintonin-mediated [Ca2⁺]i transients through the LPA1 receptor-PLC-IP3 signaling pathway were coupled to increase both the expression and release of BDNF. The released BDNF activated the TrkB receptor. Induction of TrkB phosphorylation was further linked to Akt activation. Phosphorylated Akt reduced IAA-induced oxidative stress and increased cell survival. Our results indicate that gintonin attenuated IAA-induced oxidative stress in neuronal cells by activating the LPA1 receptor-BDNF-TrkB-Akt signaling pathway. One of the gintonin-mediated neuroprotective effects may be achieved via anti-oxidative stress in nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon-Jin Cho
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.-M.L.); (H.-S.C.)
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.-M.L.); (H.-S.C.)
| | - Ra-Mi Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.-M.L.); (H.-S.C.)
| | - Han-Sung Cho
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.-M.L.); (H.-S.C.)
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea;
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea;
| | - Byung-Joo Kim
- Division of Longevity and Biofunctional Medicine, Pusan National University School of Korean Medicine, Yangsan 50612, Korea;
| | - Jong-Hoon Kim
- Biosafety Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Baekje-daero 567, Jeonju 28644, Korea;
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.-M.L.); (H.-S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-450-4154
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Li J, Huang Q, Chen J, Qi H, Liu J, Chen Z, Zhao D, Wang Z, Li X. Neuroprotective Potentials of Panax Ginseng Against Alzheimer's Disease: A Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidences. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:688490. [PMID: 34149431 PMCID: PMC8206566 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.688490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder, is a major health concern in the increasingly aged population worldwide. Currently, no clinically effective drug can halt the progression of AD. Panax ginseng C.A. Mey. is a well-known medicinal plant that contains ginsenosides, gintonin, and other components and has neuroprotective effects against a series of pathological cascades in AD, including beta-amyloid formation, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we summarize the effects and mechanisms of these major components and formulas containing P. ginseng in neuronal cells and animal models. Moreover, clinical findings regarding the prevention and treatment of AD with P. ginseng or its formulas are discussed. This review can provide new insights into the possible use of ginseng in the prevention and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Qingxia Huang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jinjin Chen
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyu Qi
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Zhaoqiang Chen
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Daqing Zhao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Zeyu Wang
- Department of Scientific Research, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xiangyan Li
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
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Choi SH, Lee R, Nam SM, Kim DG, Cho IH, Kim HC, Cho Y, Rhim H, Nah SY. Ginseng gintonin, aging societies, and geriatric brain diseases. Integr Med Res 2021; 10:100450. [PMID: 32817818 PMCID: PMC7426447 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A dramatic increase in aging populations and low birth rates rapidly drive aging societies and increase aging-associated neurodegenerative diseases. However, functional food or medicinal formulations to prevent geriatric brain disorders are not readily available. Panax ginseng is a candidate, since ginseng has long-been consumed as a rejuvenating agent. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and the components of ginseng that are responsible for brain rejuvenation and human longevity are unknown. Accumulating evidence shows that gintonin is a candidate for the anti-aging ingredient of ginseng, especially in brain senescence. METHODS Gintonin, a glycolipoprotein complex, contains three lipid-derived G protein-coupled receptor ligands: lysophosphatidic acids (LPAs), lysophosphatidylinositols (LPIs), and linoleic acid (LA). LPA, LPI, and LA act on six LPA receptor subtypes, GPR55, and GPR40, respectively. These G protein-coupled receptors are distributed within the nervous and non-nervous systems of the human body. RESULTS Gintonin-enriched fraction (GEF) exhibits anti-brain senescence and effects against disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). Oral administration of gintonin in animal models of d-galactose-induced brain aging, AD, HD, and PD restored cognitive and motor functions. The underlying molecular mechanisms of gintonin-mediated anti-brain aging and anti-neurodegenerative diseases include neurogenesis, autophagy stimulation, anti-apoptosis, anti-oxidative stress, and anti-inflammatory activities. This review describes the characteristics of gintonin and GEF, and how gintonin exerts its effects on brain aging and brain associated-neurodegenerative diseases. CONCLUSION Finally, we describe how GEF can be applied to improve the quality of life of senior citizens in aging societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Rami Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Min Nam
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Geun Kim
- Neurovascular Biology Laboratory, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonjeong Cho
- Center for Neuroscience Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Choi JH, Oh J, Lee MJ, Ko SG, Nah SY, Cho IH. Gintonin mitigates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by stabilization of Nrf2 signaling via stimulation of lysophosphatidic acid receptors. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 93:384-398. [PMID: 33309911 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Gintonin (GT), a glycolipoprotein fraction isolated from ginseng, exerts neuroprotective effects in models of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. However, the in vivo role of GT in multiple sclerosis (MS) has not been clearly resolved. We investigated the effect of GT in myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG35-55)-induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS. GT alleviated behavioral symptoms of EAE associated with reduced demyelination, diminished infiltration and activation of immune cells (microglia and macrophage), and decreased expression of inflammatory mediators in the spinal cord of the EAE group compared to that of the sham group. GT reduced the percentages of CD4+/IFN-γ+ (Th1) and CD4+/IL-17+ (Th17) cells but increased the population of CD4+/CD25+/Foxp3+ (Treg) cells in the spinal cord, in agreement with altered mRNA expression of IFN-γ, IL-17, and TGF-ß in the spinal cord in concordance with mitigated blood-brain barrier disruption. The underlying mechanism is related to inhibition of the ERK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways and the stabilization of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) via increased expression of lysophosphatidic acid receptor (LPAR) 1-3. Impressively, these beneficial effects of GT were completely neutralized by inhibiting LPARs with Ki16425, a LPAR1/3 antagonist. Our results strongly suggest that GT may be able to alleviate EAE due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities through LPARs. Therefore, GT is a potential therapeutic option for treating autoimmune disorders including MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Hee Choi
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhee Oh
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jung Lee
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Korean Medicine-based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; Institute of Convergence Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea.
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Kim DG, Kim HJ, Choi SH, Nam SM, Kim HC, Rhim H, Cho IH, Rhee MH, Nah SY. Gintonin influences the morphology and motility of adult brain neurons via LPA receptors. J Ginseng Res 2020; 45:401-407. [PMID: 34025133 PMCID: PMC8134845 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gintonin is an exogenous ginseng-derived G-protein-coupled lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand. LPA induces in vitro morphological changes and migration through neuronal LPA1 receptor. Recently, we reported that systemic administration of gintonin increases blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability via the paracellular pathway and its binding to brain neurons. However, little is known about the influences of gintonin on in vivo neuron morphology and migration in the brain. Materials and methods We examined the effects of gintonin on in vitro migration and morphology using primary hippocampal neural precursor cells (hNPC) and in vivo effects of gintonin on adult brain neurons using real time microscopic analysis and immunohistochemical analysis to observe the morphological and locational changes induced by gintonin treatment. Results We found that treating hNPCs with gintonin induced morphological changes with a cell rounding following cell aggregation and return to individual neurons with time relapses. However, the in vitro effects of gintonin on hNPCs were blocked by the LPA1/3 receptor antagonist, Ki16425, and Rho kinase inhibitor, Y27632. We also examined the in vivo effects of gintonin on the morphological changes and migration of neurons in adult mouse brains using anti-NeuN and -neurofilament H antibodies. We found that acute intravenous administration of gintonin induced morphological and migrational changes in brain neurons. Gintonin induced some migrations of neurons with shortened neurofilament H in the cortex. The in vivo effects of gintonin were also blocked by Ki16425. Conclusion The present report raises the possibility that gintonin could enter the brain and exert its influences on the migration and morphology of adult mouse brain neurons and possibly explains the therapeutic effects of neurological diseases behind the gintonin administration.
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Key Words
- Adult brain neuron
- BBB, blood brain barrier
- BSA, bovine serum albumin
- DAPI, 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole
- DMEM, Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium
- DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide
- EGF, epidermal growth factor
- FITC, fluorescein isothiocyanate
- Gintonin
- HBSS, Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution
- LPA receptors
- LPA, Lysophatidic Acid
- MEM, Modified Eagle's medium
- Morphology and migration
- NECAB1, Neuronal calcium binding proteins 1
- NFH, neurofilament H
- OCT, optimum cutting temperature
- PFA, paraformaldehyde
- ROCK, Rho-associated protein kinase
- bFGF, fibroblast growth factor
- hNPC, hippocampal neural precursor cells
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Affiliation(s)
- Do-Geun Kim
- Dementia Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, Cheomdanro 61, Daegu, Republic of Korea.,Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine and Institute for Environmental Science, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Min Nam
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Plus Program, and Institute of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Man Hee Rhee
- Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology & Cell Signaling, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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The Gintonin-Enriched Fraction of Ginseng Regulates Lipid Metabolism and Browning via the cAMP-Protein Kinase a Signaling Pathway in Mice White Adipocytes. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10071048. [PMID: 32679738 PMCID: PMC7407952 DOI: 10.3390/biom10071048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a major health concern and is becoming an increasingly serious societal problem worldwide. The browning of white adipocytes has received considerable attention because of its potential protective effect against obesity-related metabolic disease. The gintonin-enriched fraction (GEF) is a non-saponin, glycolipoprotein component of ginseng that is known to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the anti-obesity and browning effects of GEF have not been explored to date. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether GEF has a preventive effect against obesity. We differentiated 3T3-L1 cells and mouse primary subcutaneous adipocytes for 8 days in the presence or absence of GEF, and then measured the expression of intermediates in signaling pathways that regulate triglyceride (TG) synthesis and browning by Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis. We found that GEF reduced lipid accumulation by reducing the expression of pro-adipogenic and lipogenic factors, and increased lipolysis and thermogenesis, which may be mediated by an increase in the phosphorylation of protein kinase A. These findings suggest that GEF may induce fat metabolism and energy expenditure in white adipocytes and therefore may represent a potential treatment for obesity.
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Lee R, Lee NE, Choi SH, Nam SM, Kim HC, Rhim H, Cho IH, Hwang SH, Nah SY. Effects of gintonin-enriched fraction on hippocampal gene expressions. Integr Med Res 2020; 10:100475. [PMID: 33134079 PMCID: PMC7588706 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, gintonin and gintonin-enriched fraction (GEF) have been isolated from ginseng, a herbal medicine. Gintonin induces [Ca2+]i transition in cultured hippocampal neurons and stimulates acetylcholine release through LPA receptor activation. Oral administration of GEF is linked to hippocampus-dependent cognitive enhancement and other neuroprotective effects; however, effects of its long-term administration on hippocampal gene expression remains unknown. Here, we used next-generation sequence (NGS) analysis to examine changes in hippocampal gene expressions after long-term oral administration of GEF. Methods C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups: control group, GEF50 (GEF 50 mg/kg, p.o.), and GEF100 (GEF 100 mg/kg, p.o.). After 22 days, total RNA was extracted from mouse hippocampal tissues. NGS was used for gene expression profiling; quantitative-real-time PCR and western blot were performed to quantify the changes in specific genes and to confirm the protein expression levels in treatment groups. Results NGS analysis screened a total of 23,282 genes, analyzing 11-related categories. We focused on the neurogenesis category, which includes four genes for candidate markers: choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) gene, β3-adrenergic receptor (Adrb3) gene, and corticotrophin-releasing hormone (Crh) gene, and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (Tdo2) gene. Real-time PCR showed a marked overexpression of ChAT, Adrb3, and Crh genes, while reduced expression of Tdo2. Western blot analysis also confirmed increased ChAT and decreased Tdo2 protein levels. Conclusion We found that GEF affects mouse hippocampal gene expressions, associated with memory, cognitive, anti-stress and anti-anxiety functions, and neurodegeneration at differential degree, that might explain the genetic bases of GEF-mediated neuroprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Na-Eun Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Min Nam
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuro Psychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, Department of Science in Korean Medicine and Brain Korea 21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Health Sciences, Sangji University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Ikram M, Ullah R, Khan A, Kim MO. Ongoing Research on the Role of Gintonin in the Management of Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061464. [PMID: 32549286 PMCID: PMC7349707 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders, namely Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and multiple sclerosis (MS), are increasingly major health concerns due to the increasingly aged population worldwide. These conditions often share the same underlying pathological mechanisms, including elevated oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and the aggregation of proteins. Several studies have highlighted the potential to diminish the clinical outcomes of these disorders via the administration of herbal compounds, among which gintonin, a derivative of ginseng, has shown promising results. Gintonin is a noncarbohydrate/saponin that has been characterized as a lysophosphatidic acid receptor (LPA Receptor) ligand. Gintonin may cause a significant elevation in calcium levels [Ca2+]i intracellularly, which promotes calcium-mediated cellular effects via the modulation of ion channels and cell surface receptors, regulating the inflammatory effects. Years of research have suggested that gintonin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects against different models of neurodegeneration, and these effects may be employed to tackle the neurological changes. Therefore, we collected the main scientific findings and comprehensively presented them, covering preparation, absorption, and receptor-mediated functions, including effects against Alzheimer’s disease models, Parkinson’s disease models, anxiety and depression-like models, and other neurological disorders, aiming to provide some insights for the possible usage of gintonin in the management of neurodegenerative conditions.
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Cho YJ, Choi SH, Lee R, Hwang H, Rhim H, Cho IH, Kim HC, Lee JI, Hwang SH, Nah SY. Ginseng Gintonin Contains Ligands for GPR40 and GPR55. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25051102. [PMID: 32121640 PMCID: PMC7179172 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25051102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gintonin, a novel ginseng-derived glycolipoprotein complex, has an exogenous ligand for lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptors. However, recent lipid analysis of gintonin has shown that gintonin also contains other bioactive lipids besides LPAs, including linoleic acid and lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI). Linoleic acid, a free fatty acid, and LPI are known as ligands for the G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR), GPR40, and GPR55, respectively. We, herein, investigated whether gintonin could serve as a ligand for GPR40 and GPR55, using the insulin-secreting beta cell-derived cell line INS-1 and the human prostate cancer cell line PC-3, respectively. Gintonin dose-dependently enhanced insulin secretion from INS-1 cells. Gintonin-stimulated insulin secretion was partially inhibited by a GPR40 receptor antagonist but not an LPA1/3 receptor antagonist and was down-regulated by small interfering RNA (siRNA) against GPR40. Gintonin dose-dependently induced [Ca2+]i transients and Ca2+-dependent cell migration in PC-3 cells. Gintonin actions in PC-3 cells were attenuated by pretreatment with a GPR55 antagonist and an LPA1/3 receptor antagonist or by down-regulating GPR55 with siRNA. Taken together, these results demonstrated that gintonin-mediated insulin secretion by INS-1 cells and PC-3 cell migration were regulated by the respective activation of GPR40 and GPR55 receptors. These findings indicated that gintonin could function as a ligand for both receptors. Finally, we demonstrated that gintonin contained two more GPCR ligands, in addition to that for LPA receptors. Gintonin, with its multiple GPCR ligands, might provide the molecular basis for the multiple pharmacological actions of ginseng.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon-Jin Cho
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.L.)
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.L.)
| | - Rami Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.L.)
| | - Hongik Hwang
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea; (H.H.); (H.R.)
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea; (H.H.); (H.R.)
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, Department of Science in Korean Medicine and Brain Korea 21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea;
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Korea;
| | - Jeong-Ik Lee
- Department of Veterinary Obstetrics and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea;
| | - Sung-Hee Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Health Sciences, Sangji University, Wonju 26339, Korea
- Correspondence: (S.-H.H.); (S.-Y.N.); Tel.: +82-33-738-7922 (S.-H.H.); +82-2-450-4154 (S.-Y.N.)
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea; (Y.-J.C.); (S.-H.C.); (R.L.)
- Correspondence: (S.-H.H.); (S.-Y.N.); Tel.: +82-33-738-7922 (S.-H.H.); +82-2-450-4154 (S.-Y.N.)
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Lee NE, Park SD, Hwang H, Choi SH, Lee RM, Nam SM, Choi JH, Rhim H, Cho IH, Kim HC, Hwang SH, Nah SY. Effects of a gintonin-enriched fraction on hair growth: an in vitro and in vivo study. J Ginseng Res 2019; 44:168-177. [PMID: 32095099 PMCID: PMC7033365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ginseng has been widely used as a health-promoting tonic. Gintonin present in ginseng acts as a lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand that activates six LPA receptor subtypes. The LPA6 subtype plays a key role in normal hair growth, and mutations in the LPA6 receptor impair normal human hair growth. Currently, human hair loss and alopecia are concerning issues that affect peoples' social and day-to-day lives. Objective We investigated the in vitro and in vivo effects of a gintonin-enriched fraction (GEF) on mouse hair growth. Methods Human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) and six-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were used. The mice were divided into the four groups: control, 1% minoxidil, 0.75% GEF, and 1.5% GEF. The dorsal hair was removed to synchronize the telogen phase. Each group was treated topically, once a day, for 15 days. We analyzed hair growth activity and histological changes. Results GEF induced transient [Ca2+]i, which stimulated HFDPC proliferation and caused 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation in a concentration-dependent manner. GEF-mediated HFDPC proliferation was blocked by the LPA receptor antagonist and Ca2+ chelator. HFDPC treatment with GEF stimulated vascular endothelial growth factor release. Topical application of GEF and minoxidil promoted hair growth in a dose-dependent manner. Histological analysis showed that GEF and minoxidil increased the number of hair follicles and hair weight. Conclusion Topical application of GEF promotes mouse hair growth through HFDPC proliferation. GEF could be one of the main components of ginseng that promote hair growth and could be used to treat human alopecia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Eun Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Deuk Park
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hongik Hwang
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ra Mi Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Min Nam
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hee Choi
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, Department of Science in Korean Medicine, and Brain Korea 21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, Department of Science in Korean Medicine, and Brain Korea 21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Health Sciences, Sangji University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Chen LX, Qi YL, Qi Z, Gao K, Gong RZ, Shao ZJ, Liu SX, Li SS, Sun YS. A Comparative Study on the Effects of Different Parts of Panax ginseng on the Immune Activity of Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppressed Mice. Molecules 2019; 24:E1096. [PMID: 30897728 PMCID: PMC6470474 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24061096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of the immunological activity of various parts (root/stem/leaf/flower/seed) of five-year-old ginseng on the immune system of immunosuppressive mice. Immunosuppression was induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) in the mouse model, whereas levamisole hydrochloride tablet (LTH) was used for the positive control group. We found that ginseng root (GRT), ginseng leaf (GLF), and ginseng flower (GFR) could relieve immunosuppression by increased viability of NK cells, enhanced immune organ index, improved cell-mediated immune response, increased content of CD4⁺ and ratio of CD4⁺/CD8⁺, and recovery of macrophage function, including carbon clearance, phagocytic rate, and phagocytic index, in immunodeficient mice. However, ginseng stem (GSM) and ginseng seed (GSD) could only enhance the thymus indices, carbon clearance, splenocyte proliferation, NK cell activities, and the level of IL-4 in immunosuppressed mice. In CTX-injected mice, GRT and GFR remarkably increased the protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, SOD1, SOD2, and CAT in the spleen. As expected, oral administration of GRT and GFR markedly enhanced the production of cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α, compared with the CTX-induced immunosuppressed mice, and GRT and GFR did this relatively better than GSM, GLF, and GSD. This study provides a theoretical basis for further study on different parts of ginseng.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Xue Chen
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.
| | - Yu-Li Qi
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.
| | - Zeng Qi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Kun Gao
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.
| | - Rui-Ze Gong
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
| | - Zi-Jun Shao
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.
| | - Song-Xin Liu
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.
| | - Shan-Shan Li
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
| | - Yin-Shi Sun
- Institute of Special Animals and Plants Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China.
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.
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Rajabian A, Rameshrad M, Hosseinzadeh H. Therapeutic potential of Panax ginseng and its constituents, ginsenosides and gintonin, in neurological and neurodegenerative disorders: a patent review. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2018; 29:55-72. [PMID: 30513224 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2019.1556258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ginseng, Panax ginseng, has been used for various diseases and proven its great efficacy in managing central nervous system diseases. AREAS COVERED This article covers the therapeutic potential of patents on ginseng and its active constituents to develop therapies for neurodegenerative and neurological disorders, since 2010. The literature review was provided using multiple search engines including Google Patent, Espacenet and US Patent in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, cognitive, and neurological disorders. EXPERT OPINION The gathered data represented outstanding merits of ginseng in treatment of neurodegenerative and neurological disorders. These effects have been mediated by neurogenesis, anti-apoptotic and antioxidant properties, inhibition of mitochondrial dysfunction, receptor-operated Ca2+ channels, amyloid beta aggregation, and microglial activation as well as neurotransmitters modulation. However, these compounds have limited clinical application of for the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative and neurological disorders. This might be due to incomplete data on their clinical pharmacokinetic and toxicity properties, and limited economic investments. There is an increasing trend in use of herbal medicines instead of chemical drugs, so it is time to make more attention to the application of ginseng, the grandfather of medicinal plants, from basic sciences to patients' bed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Rajabian
- a Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Faculty of Medicine , Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran.,b Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Maryam Rameshrad
- c Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute , Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- c Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute , Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran.,d Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology Department , School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
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Kim DG, Jang M, Choi SH, Kim HJ, Jhun H, Kim HC, Rhim H, Cho IH, Nah SY. Gintonin, a ginseng-derived exogenous lysophosphatidic acid receptor ligand, enhances blood-brain barrier permeability and brain delivery. Int J Biol Macromol 2018; 114:1325-1337. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.03.158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Kim HJ, Kim JY, Lee BH, Choi SH, Rhim H, Kim HC, Ahn SY, Jeong SW, Jang M, Cho IH, Nah SY. Gintonin, an exogenous ginseng-derived LPA receptor ligand, promotes corneal wound healing. J Vet Sci 2018; 18:387-397. [PMID: 27586470 PMCID: PMC5639092 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2017.18.3.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Ginseng gintonin is an exogenous ligand of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptors. Accumulating evidence shows LPA helps in rapid recovery of corneal damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of gintonin in a rabbit model of corneal damage. We investigated the signal transduction pathway of gintonin in human corneal epithelium (HCE) cells to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism. We next evaluated the therapeutic effects of gintonin, using a rabbit model of corneal damage, by undertaking histochemical analysis. Treatment of gintonin to HCE cells induced transient increases of [Ca2+]i in concentration-dependent and reversible manners. Gintonin-mediated mobilization of [Ca2+]i was attenuated by LPA1/3 receptor antagonist Ki16425, phospholipase C inhibitor U73122, inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor antagonist 2-APB, and intracellular Ca2+ chelator BAPTA-AM. Gintonin facilitated in vitro wound healing in a concentration-dependent manner. When applied as an eye-drop to rabbits with corneal damage, gintonin rapidly promoted recovery. Histochemical analysis showed gintonin decreased corneal apoptosis and increased corneal cell proliferation. We demonstrated that LPA receptor activation by gintonin is linked to in vitro and in vivo therapeutic effects against corneal damage. Gintonin can be applied as a clinical agent for the rapid healing of corneal damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Joon Young Kim
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Byung-Hwan Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Hyewon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and toxicology program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Seoung-Yob Ahn
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Soon-Wuk Jeong
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Minhee Jang
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
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Kim HJ, Kim DJ, Shin EJ, Lee BH, Choi SH, Hwang SH, Rhim H, Cho IH, Kim HC, Nah SY. Effects of gintonin-enriched fraction on hippocampal cell proliferation in wild-type mice and an APPswe/PSEN-1 double Tg mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Neurochem Int 2016; 101:56-65. [PMID: 27765516 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2016.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We previously showed that gintonin, an exogenous lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand, attenuated β-amyloid plaque formation in the cortex and hippocampus, and restored β-amyloid-induced memory dysfunction. Both endogenous LPA and LPA receptors play a key role in embryonic brain development. However, little is known about whether gintonin can induce hippocampal cell proliferation in adult wild-type mice and an APPswe/PSEN-1 double Tg mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, we examined the effects of gintonin on the proliferation of hippocampal neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in vitro and its effects on the hippocampal cell proliferation in wild-type mice and a transgenic AD mouse model. Gintonin treatment increased 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation in hippocampal NPCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Gintonin (0.3 μg/ml) increased the immunostaining of glial fibrillary acidic protein, NeuN, and LPA1 receptor in hippocampal NPCs. However, the gintonin-induced increase in BrdU incorporation and immunostaining of biomarkers was blocked by an LPA1/3 receptor antagonist and Ca2+ chelator. Oral administration of the gintonin-enriched fraction (50 and 100 mg/kg) increased hippocampal BrdU incorporation and LPA1/3 receptor expression in adult wild-type and transgenic AD mice. The present study showed that gintonin could increase the number of hippocampal neurons in adult wild-type mice and a transgenic AD mouse model. Our results indicate that gintonin-mediated hippocampal cell proliferation contributes to the gintonin-mediated restorative effect against β-amyloid-induced hippocampal dysfunction. These results support the use of gintonin for the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD via promotion of hippocampal neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Joong Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chunchon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ju Shin
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Hwan Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Health Sciences, Sangji University, Wonju 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
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A Novel Korean Red Ginseng Compound Gintonin Inhibited Inflammation by MAPK and NF-κB Pathways and Recovered the Levels of mir-34a and mir-93 in RAW 264.7 Cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:624132. [PMID: 26579204 PMCID: PMC4633694 DOI: 10.1155/2015/624132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The beneficial health promoting effects of ginseng from vitalizing the body to enhancing long life have been well explored very rapidly in the past few years. Up till now many ginsenosides have been discovered for their marvelous therapeutic effects. However during past three years, a novel ginseng compound has been discovered, called gintonin, that differs from other ginsenosides on the basis of its signal transduction and chemical nature. Gintonin has been widely studied for its anti-Alzheimer's disease activities and other neuropathies. However, its anti-inflammatory activity remained unexplored. In our study we have reported for the first time the anti-inflammatory activity of gintonin on RAW 264.7 cells. We found that gintonin potently suppresses the nitric oxide production without any cytotoxicity at given doses and also efficiently suppressed the levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Moreover, it mediaes its signal transduction via MAPK and NF-κB pathways and revives the levels of mir-34a and mir-93. These findings are valuable for the anti-inflammatory effects of this new compound with particular reference to microRNA involvement in the ginseng family.
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Wong AST, Che CM, Leung KW. Recent advances in ginseng as cancer therapeutics: a functional and mechanistic overview. Nat Prod Rep 2015; 32:256-72. [PMID: 25347695 DOI: 10.1039/c4np00080c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Ginseng, a key ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine, shows great promise as a new treatment option. As listed by the U.S. National Institutes of Health as a complementary and alternative medicine, its anti-cancer functions are being increasingly recognized. This review covers the mechanisms of action of ginsenosides and their metabolites, which can modulate signaling pathways associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, angiogenesis, metastasis, and stem/progenitor-like properties of cancer cells. The emerging use of structurally modified ginsenosides and recent clinical studies on the use of ginseng either alone or in combination with other herbs or Western medicines which are exploited as novel therapeutic strategies will also be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice S T Wong
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, and School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Kim S, Kim MS, Park K, Kim HJ, Jung SW, Nah SY, Han JS, Chung C. Hippocampus-dependent cognitive enhancement induced by systemic gintonin administration. J Ginseng Res 2015; 40:55-61. [PMID: 26843822 PMCID: PMC4703807 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A number of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases share impaired cognition as a common symptom. Therefore, the development of clinically applicable therapies to enhance cognition has yielded significant interest. Previously, we have shown that activation of lysophosphatidic acid receptors (LPARs) via gintonin application potentiates synaptic transmission by the blockade of K+ channels in the mature hippocampus. However, whether gintonin may exert any beneficial impact directly on cognition at the neural circuitry level and the behavioral level has not been investigated. Methods In the current study, we took advantage of gintonin, a novel LPAR agonist, to investigate the effect of gintonin-mediated LPAR activation on cognitive performances. Hippocampus-dependent fear memory test, synaptic plasticity in the hippocampal brain slices, and quantitative analysis on synaptic plasticity-related proteins were used. Results Daily oral administration of gintonin for 1 wk significantly improved fear memory retention in the contextual fear-conditioning test in mice. We also found that oral administration of gintonin for 1 wk increased the expression of learning and memory-related proteins such as phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate-response element binding (CREB) protein and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In addition, prolonged gintonin administration enhanced long-term potentiation in the hippocampus. Conclusion Our observations suggest that the systemic gintonin administration could successfully improve contextual memory formation at the molecular and synaptic levels as well as the behavioral level. Therefore, oral administration of gintonin may serve as an effective noninvasive, nonsurgical method of enhancing cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungmin Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min-Soo Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kwanghoon Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seok-Won Jung
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung-Soo Han
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - ChiHye Chung
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
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Park H, Kim S, Rhee J, Kim HJ, Han JS, Nah SY, Chung C. Synaptic enhancement induced by gintonin via lysophosphatidic acid receptor activation in central synapses. J Neurophysiol 2015; 113:1493-500. [DOI: 10.1152/jn.00667.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is one of the well-characterized, ubiquitous phospholipid molecules. LPA exerts its effect by activating G protein-coupled receptors known as LPA receptors (LPARs). So far, LPAR signaling has been critically implicated during early development stages, including the regulation of synapse formation and the morphology of cortical and hippocampal neurons. In adult brains, LPARs seem to participate in cognitive as well as emotional learning and memory. Recent studies using LPAR1-deficient mice reported impaired performances in a number of behavioral tasks, including the hippocampus-dependent spatial memory and fear conditioning tests. Nevertheless, the effect of LPAR activation in the synaptic transmission of central synapses after the completion of embryonic development has not been investigated. In this study, we took advantage of a novel extracellular agonist for LPARs called gintonin to activate LPARs in adult brain systems. Gintonin, a recently identified active ingredient in ginseng, has been shown to activate LPARs and mobilize Ca2+ in an artificial cell system. We found that the activation of LPARs by application of gintonin acutely enhanced both excitatory and inhibitory transmission in central synapses, albeit through tentatively distinct mechanisms. Gintonin-mediated LPAR activation primarily resulted in synaptic enhancement and an increase in neuronal excitability in a phospholipase C-dependent manner. Our findings suggest that LPARs are able to directly potentiate synaptic transmission in central synapses when stimulated exogenously. Therefore, LPARs could serve as a useful target to modulate synaptic activity under pathological conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoyong Park
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea; and
| | - Sungmin Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea; and
| | - Jeehae Rhee
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea; and
| | - Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung-Soo Han
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea; and
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - ChiHye Chung
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea; and
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Choi SH, Shin TJ, Lee BH, Hwang SH, Kang J, Kim HJ, Park CW, Nah SY. An edible gintonin preparation from ginseng. J Ginseng Res 2013; 35:471-8. [PMID: 23717094 PMCID: PMC3659555 DOI: 10.5142/jgr.2011.35.4.471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Revised: 10/23/2011] [Accepted: 10/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ginseng, the root of Panax ginseng, is one of the oldest herbal medicines. It has a variety of physiological and pharmacological effects. Recently, we isolated a subset of glycolipoproteins that we designated gintonin, and demonstrated that it induced transient change in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in cells via G-protein-coupled receptor signaling pathway(s). The previous method for gintonin isolation included multiple steps using methanol, butanol, and other organic solvents. In the present study, we developed a much simple method for the preparation of gintonin from ginseng root using 80% ethanol extraction. The extracted fraction was designated edible gintonin. This method produced a high yield of gintonin (0.20%). The chemical characteristics of gintonin such as molecular weight and the composition of the extract product were almost identical as the gintonin prepared using the previous extraction regimen involving various organic solvents. We also examined the physiological effects of edible gintonin on endogenous Ca2+-activated Cl- channel activity of Xenopus oocytes. The 50% effective dose was 1.03±0.3 μg/mL. Finally, since gintonin preparation through ethanol extraction is easily reproducible, gintonin could be commercially applied for ginseng-derived functional health food and/or drug following the confirmations of in vitro and in vivo physiological and pharmacological effects of gintonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701, Korea
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Hwang SH, Shin TJ, Choi SH, Cho HJ, Lee BH, Pyo MK, Lee JH, Kang J, Kim HJ, Park CW, Shin HC, Nah SY. Gintonin, newly identified compounds from ginseng, is novel lysophosphatidic acids-protein complexes and activates G protein-coupled lysophosphatidic acid receptors with high affinity. Mol Cells 2012; 33:151-62. [PMID: 22286231 PMCID: PMC3887723 DOI: 10.1007/s10059-012-2216-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Revised: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, we isolated a subset of glycolipoproteins from Panax ginseng, that we designated gintonin, and demonstrated that it induced [Ca2+]i transients in cells via G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathway(s). However, active components responsible for Ca2+ mobilization and the corresponding receptor(s) were unknown. Active component(s) for [Ca2+]i transients of gintonin were analyzed by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry and ion-mobility mass spectrometry, respectively. The corresponding receptor(s)were investigated through gene expression assays. We found that gintonin contains LPA C18:2 and other LPAs. Proteomic analysis showed that ginseng major latex-like protein and ribonuclease-like storage proteins are protein components of gintonin. Gintonin induced [Ca2+]i transients in B103 rat neuroblastoma cells transfected with human LPA receptors with high affinity in order of LPA2 >LPA5 > LPA1 > LPA3 > LPA4. The LPA1/LPA3 receptor antagonist Ki16425 blocked gintonin action in cells expressing LPA1 or LPA3. Mutations of binding sites in the LPA3 receptor attenuated gintonin action. Gintonin acted via pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive and -insensitive G protein-phospholipase C (PLC)-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-Ca2+ pathways. However, gintonin had no effects on other receptors examined. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) gintonin stimulated cell proliferation and migration. Gintonin stimulated ERK1/2 phosphorylation. PTX blocked gintonin-mediated migration and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In PC12 cells gintonin induced morphological changes, which were blocked by Rho kinase inhibitorY-27632. Gintonin contains GPCR ligand LPAs in complexes with ginseng proteins and could be useful in the development of drugs targeting LPA receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Hee Hwang
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Tae-Joon Shin
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Hee-Jung Cho
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Byung-Hwan Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Mi Kyung Pyo
- International Ginseng and Herb Research Institute, Geumsan 312-804,
Korea
| | - Jun-Ho Lee
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Jiyeon Kang
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Chan-Woo Park
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Ho-Chul Shin
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Ginsentology Research Laboratory and Department of Physiology, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
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