Ginsenoside Rg3 induces apoptosis in the U87MG human glioblastoma cell line through the MEK signaling pathway and reactive oxygen species

Choi,Yoon  Ji; Lee,Hyun  Joo; Kang,Dong   Wan; Han,In  Ho; Choi,Byung   Kwan; Cho,Won  Ho

doi:10.3892/or.2013.2555

Ginsenoside Rg3 induces apoptosis in the U87MG human glioblastoma cell line through the MEK signaling pathway and reactive oxygen species

Authors:
- Yoon Ji Choi
- Hyun Joo Lee
- Dong Wan Kang
- In Ho Han
- Byung Kwan Choi
- Won Ho Cho
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Affiliations: Department of Neurosurgery and Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan 602-739, Republic of Korea, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan 602-739, Republic of Korea
Published online on: June 20, 2013 https://doi.org/10.3892/or.2013.2555
Pages: 1362-1370

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Abstract

Ginsenoside is known to have potential cancer-preventive activities. The major active components in red ginseng consist of a variety of ginsenosides including Rg3, Rg5 and Rk1, each of which has different pharmacological activities. Among these, Rg3 has been reported to exert anticancer activities through inhibition of angiogenesis and cell proliferation. However, the effects of Rg3 and its molecular mechanism on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remain unclear. Therefore, it is essential to develop a greater understanding of this novel compound. In the present study, we investigated the effects of Rg3 on a human glioblastoma cell line and its molecular signaling mechanism. The mechanisms of apoptosis by ginsenoside Rg3 were related with the MEK signaling pathway and reactive oxygen species. Our data suggest that ginsenoside Rg3 is a novel agent for the chemotherapy of GBM.

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