Investigating the Inhibition of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 by Ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus, type 1, (HSV-1) is a common viral pathogen. The majority
of infections occur during childhood. People who exhibit symptoms from
HSV-1 infection can experience genital/oral ulcers (cold sores), latency in
sensory neurons, and necrotizing encephalitis, and once HSV has infected the
host organism, the individual may be infected for life. This study investigated
inhibition of the herpes simplex viruses, type 1 by Ginsenoside 20(S)-Rg3 (Rg3),
since this ginsenoside has been reported to inhibit HSV. Mice were dosed
with specific amounts of Rg3 and infected with HSV-1. Tissues including brain,
spleen, liver, and serum were collected and analyzed for the presence of HSV-1
by the polymerase chain reaction. Although Rg3 treatment appeared to be
successful in vitro, it was not successful in inhibiting the virus in the living
mice.