Ginsenosides and Their Role in Reducing Depression-like Behavior
Author Information
Author(s): Kang An, Hao Haiping, Zheng Xiao, Liang Yan, Xie Yuan, Xie Tong, Dai Chen, Zhao Qijin, Wu Xiaolan, Xie Lin, Wang Guangji
Primary Institution: Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
Hypothesis
The central therapeutic effects of ginseng total saponins (GTS) might derive from peripheral anti-inflammation activities.
Conclusion
The anti-depression efficacy of GTS may be largely attributable to its peripheral anti-inflammatory activity.
Supporting Evidence
- GTS significantly reduced LPS-induced depression-like behavior in mice.
- GTS treatment decreased production of proinflammatory cytokines in both LPS-challenged mice and RAW264.7 cells.
- GTS pretreatment attenuated increases in IDO activity associated with LPS-induced neuroinflammation.
Takeaway
Ginseng can help people feel less sad by reducing inflammation in the body, even though it doesn't get into the brain very well.
Methodology
The study used LPS-induced depression-like behavior models in mice, assessing the effects of GTS through various behavioral tests and cytokine measurements.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on peripheral effects and did not explore potential central effects of ginsenosides.
Participant Demographics
Male CD-1 mice, 10-12 weeks old.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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