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Korean Red Ginseng Prevents the Deterioration of Lung and Brain Function in Chronic PM2.5-Exposed Mice by Regulating
Ju Hui Kim1, Jong Min Kim1, Hyo Lim Lee1
1Division of Applied Life Science (BK21), Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
This study was conducted to confirm the effects of Korean red ginseng on lung and brain dysfunction in a BALB/c mice model exposed to particulate matter (PM)2.5 for 12 weeks. Learning and cognitive abilities were assessed with Y-maze, passive avoidance, and Morris water maze tests. To evaluate the ameliorating effect of red ginseng extract (RGE), the antioxidant system and mitochondrial function were investigated. The administration of RGE protected lung and brain impairment by regulating the antioxidant system and mitochondrial functions damaged by PM2.5-induced toxicity. Moreover, RGE prevented pulmonary fibrosis by regulating the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) pathway. RGE attenuated PM2.5-induced pulmonary and cognitive dysfunction by regulating systemic inflammation and apoptosis via the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB)/c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) pathway. In conclusion, RGE might be a potential material that can regulate chronic PM2.5-induced lung and brain cognitive dysfunction.
Insights
Korean red ginseng extract (RGE) protects against lung and brain damage caused by particulate matter (PM)2.5 exposure. RGE improves cognitive function by regulating inflammation and apoptosis pathways.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Particulate matter (PM)2.5 exposure is a significant environmental risk factor linked to lung and brain dysfunction.
- Chronic exposure to PM2.5 can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired cognitive function.
- Investigating protective agents against PM2.5-induced toxicity is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the protective effects of Korean red ginseng extract (RGE) against PM2.5-induced lung and brain dysfunction in a mouse model.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying RGE's protective effects, focusing on antioxidant systems, mitochondrial function, and inflammatory pathways.
Main Methods:
- BALB/c mice were exposed to PM2.5 for 12 weeks.
- Cognitive and learning abilities were assessed using behavioral tests (Y-maze, passive avoidance, Morris water maze).
- Antioxidant system, mitochondrial function, pulmonary fibrosis markers (TGF-β1), systemic inflammation, and apoptosis (NF-κB/JNK pathway) were evaluated.
Main Results:
- RGE administration protected against PM2.5-induced lung and brain impairment.
- RGE regulated the antioxidant system and mitochondrial function, mitigating PM2.5 toxicity.
- RGE prevented pulmonary fibrosis via the TGF-β1 pathway and attenuated inflammation and apoptosis through the NF-κB/JNK pathway.
Conclusions:
- Korean red ginseng extract (RGE) demonstrates significant protective effects against chronic PM2.5 exposure.
- RGE ameliorates PM2.5-induced lung and cognitive dysfunction by modulating key molecular pathways.
- RGE shows potential as a therapeutic agent for managing PM2.5-related health issues.
