Effects of Ginseng Alkaloid on the Tension of Rabbit Corpus Cavernosum / 대한남성과학회지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of Ginseng alkaloid on the tension regulation of corpus cavernosum, changes of tension of rabbit corpus cavernosum in vitro were studied after administration of Adaptagen(R) that is extract of Ginseng alkaloid. And changes of tension of rat aorta in vitro and rat blood pressure and heart rate in vivo were studied after administration of the same agent to evaluate systemic cardiovascular side effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rabbit corpus cavernosal strips and rat aorta rings were prepared. Strips and rings were mounted in an organ bath and isometric tensions were recorded after administration of agents contracting or relaxing vascular smooth muscle and Adaptagen(R). RESULTS: Adaptagen(R) relaxed rabbit corpus cavernosal strip and rat aorta ring contracted by phenylephrine in a dose-dependent manner. Pretreatment of L-nitroarginine inhibited the relaxing effect of Adaptagen(R) on phenylephrine-induced contraction of these tissues. In vivo, intraperitonealy administered Adaptagen(R) transiently decreased systemic blood pressure and heart rate of rat. CONCLUSIONS: According to above RESULTS, Ginseng alkaloid relaxes corpus cavernosum in a dose-dependent manner without significant systemic side effects. Therefore, it is suggested that Ginseng alkaloid could enhance erectile function but further studies are required for clinical application.