Immune-Enhancing Effects of Hydroponically Grown Ginseng Extracts: In Vitro and In Vivo Investigations

초록

This study aimed to compare the enhancement of immune responses by hydroponically grown ginseng (HGG) extract, which has increased ginsenoside content, with that by red ginseng extract (RGE). This research utilizes hydroponic cultivation instead of conventional soil-based methods to enhance the ginsenoside content in ginseng seedlings, thereby increasing their immunomodulatory effects. This innovative cultivation methodology is expected to create a new standard for the future use of ginseng as a functional food ingredient. To this end, we evaluated the effect of hydroponically grown ginseng seedling extract (HGSE) and hydroponically grown ginseng plantlet extract (HGPE) on immune control in RAW 264.7 macrophages and mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). Treatment with both HGSE and HGPE resulted in phagocytic activity superior to that of RGE in the presence of E. coli and stimulated tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha production in a concentration-dependent manner under 12.5-50 mu g/mL treatment conditions. In addition, treatment of BMDMs with HGSE and HGPE resulted in unrivaled enhancement of both TNF-alpha and interleukin-6 production, and both HGSE and HGPE have been shown to upregulate mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. In the final analysis, the efficacy of the HGPE extract was evaluated in the immunosuppressed BALB/c mouse model. Oral administration of the extract alleviated the significant reduction in spleen weight induced by cyclophosphamide. Additionally, cytokine array results demonstrated regulation of adiponectin, ICAM-1, and IGFBP-1 regulation. According to the results of the study, HGG seedlings can act as a suitable eco-friendly next-generation option for red ginseng as a functional food ingredient.

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