[Effect and mechanism on dopamine contents of striatum in rat model of Parkinson's disease ginsenoside Rg1].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate effect and mechanisms on dopamine contents of striatum (Str) in the 6-OHDA induced rat model of Parkinson's disease (PD) by ginsenoside Rg1.

METHOD

Ovariectomized PD rats were treated with vehicle, ginsenoside Rg1, (10 mg x kg(-1)) or estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist ICI 182,780 for 14 d. The change of apomorphine-linduced rotational behavior in PD rats were observed. The high performance lipid chromotophotography (HPLC) was used to determine the contents of DA, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA)in striatum.

RESULT

Rg1 treatment could ameliorate the PD rat's rotational behavior induced by apomorphine (P < 0.01). This effect could be blocked by ER antagonist ICI 182,780. The DA, DOPAC and HVA levels in the injured side of Str for PD rats were significantly decreased compared with the intact side (P < 0.01). Rg1, treatment could increase DA contents in the injured side of Str (P < 0.01). ICI 182,780 could completely block the neuroprotective effects of Rg1. The DA contents and its metabolites in the injured side of the ICI treatment group were significantly decreased compared with the Rg1 group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Ginsenoside Rg1 may have protective effects on the dopaminergic neurons for the 6-OHDA induced OVX rat model of PD, ER. May be involved in the protection action.