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Chinese Medicine
Published in: Chinese Medicine 1/2011

Open Access 01-12-2011 | Research

Neuroprotective effects of ginsenosides Rh1 and Rg2 on neuronal cells

Authors: Xiao-Fan Li, Cathy Nga-Ping Lui, Zhi-Hong Jiang, Yung Kin-Lam Ken

Published in: Chinese Medicine | Issue 1/2011

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Abstract

Background

The present study investigates the effects of ginsenosides Rh1 and Rg2 against 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), a neurotoxin on SH-SY5Y cells and PC-12 cells. The effects of these two ginsenosides on neuronal differentiation are also examined.

Methods

LDH assay was used to measure cell viability after exposure to 6-OHDA and ginsenosides. Neuronal differentiation was evaluated by changes in cell morphology and density of neurite outgrowths. Western blotting was used to determine the ginsenosides' effects on activation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases (ERKs).

Results

Rh1 and Rg2 attenuated 6-OHDA toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells and induced neurite outgrowths in PC-12 cells. 6-OHDA-induced ERK phosphorylation was decreased by Rh1 and Rg2. 20(R)-form and 20(S)-form of the ginsenosides exerted similar effects in inducing neurite outgrowths in PC-12 cells.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates neuroprotective effects of ginsenosides Rh1 and Rg2 on neuronal cell lines. These results suggest potential Chinese medicine treatment for neurodegenerative disorders (eg Parkinson's disease).
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Neuroprotective effects of ginsenosides Rh1 and Rg2 on neuronal cells
Authors
Xiao-Fan Li
Cathy Nga-Ping Lui
Zhi-Hong Jiang
Yung Kin-Lam Ken
Publication date
01-12-2011
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Chinese Medicine / Issue 1/2011
Electronic ISSN: 1749-8546
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-8546-6-19

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