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Effect of red ginseng on natural killer cell activity in mice with lung adenoma induced by urethan and benzo(a)pyrene
1Korea Cancer Center Hospital, Korea Advanced Energy Research Institute, Seoul.
Abstract:
It was previously reported that red ginseng extract inhibited carcinogenesis by urethan, DMBA, and aflatoxin B1 [Yun et al: Cancer Detect Prevent 1983; 6:515-25]. In an attempt to investigate the mechanism of the anticarcinogenic effect of ginseng, the natural killer (NK) activity and the incidence of lung adenoma were followed over a period of 48 weeks postinjection with urethan or benzo(a)pyrene. The NK activity was markedly depressed from 4 weeks to 24 weeks after injection of carcinogens. This decreased NK activity was returned to the level of controls by administration of ginseng. At the same time, a lower incidence of lung adenoma was noted following administration of ginseng to urethan-injected mice. However, the lung adenoma induced by benzo(a)pyrene began to occur at 48 weeks in which NK activity had naturally declined to a level too low to be affected by ginseng, and administration of ginseng did not decrease the incidence. In conclusion, these results suggest that the anticarcinogenic effect of ginseng may be related to the augmentation of NK activity.
Insights
Red ginseng extract may prevent cancer by boosting natural killer (NK) cell activity. Studies show ginseng restored NK activity and reduced lung tumors in mice exposed to certain carcinogens.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Red ginseng extract has shown potential in inhibiting carcinogenesis.
- The precise mechanism behind ginseng's anticarcinogenic effects requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanism of ginseng's anticarcinogenic effect.
- To examine the relationship between ginseng, natural killer (NK) cell activity, and lung adenoma incidence.
Main Methods:
- Mice were injected with carcinogens (urethan or benzo(a)pyrene) and administered ginseng.
- Natural killer (NK) cell activity and lung adenoma incidence were monitored over 48 weeks.
Main Results:
- Carcinogen injection depressed NK activity; ginseng administration restored it to control levels.
- Ginseng administration reduced lung adenoma incidence in urethan-injected mice.
- Ginseng did not affect lung adenoma incidence in benzo(a)pyrene-injected mice, as NK activity had declined too low.
Conclusions:
- Ginseng's anticarcinogenic effect may be linked to its ability to augment NK activity.
- The efficacy of ginseng in cancer prevention might depend on the specific carcinogen and the stage of NK cell activity.