Effect of total saponin of panax ginseng on neurite growth of PC12 cells and expression of growth-associated protein-43

Objective To investigate the effect of total saponin of panax ginseng(TSPG) on neurite growth of PC12 cells and expression of growth-associated protein-43(GAP-43).Methods The PC12 cells cultured in vitro were treated with TSPG at concentrations of 0,10,20,40 and 80 mg / L respectively,and observed for morphological change by phase contrast microscopy and for synaptic connection by transmission electronic microscopy,then measured for the length of neurite by microscopic micrometer and determined for expression of GAP-43 by immunohistochemical assay and Western blot.Results Compared with those in control group,the diameter of differentiated PC12 cells treated with TSPG especially that at a concentration of 40 mg / L increased significantly,while the neurite increased significantly in length and formed synaptic connection,and the expression level of GAP-43 increased.Conclusion TSPG induced the differentiation of PC12 cells,promoted the neurite extension,and up-regulated the expression of GAP-43.