Korean ginseng induces spermatogenesis in rats through the activation of cAMP-responsive element modulator (CREM)

Fertil Steril. 2007 Oct;88(4):1000-2. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.12.014. Epub 2007 Apr 6.

Abstract

The effect of Korean ginseng (ginseng) on spermatogenesis and cAMP-responsive element modulator (CREM) in rat testes was evaluated using sperm analysis, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis. The ginseng-treated rats exhibited significantly increased sperm count and motility with enhanced levels of CREM messenger RNA and protein. Ginseng appears to induce spermatogenesis via CREM activation in rat testes.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cyclic AMP Response Element Modulator / metabolism*
  • Male
  • Panax*
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Sperm Count
  • Sperm Motility / drug effects
  • Spermatogenesis / drug effects*

Substances

  • Crem protein, rat
  • Plant Extracts
  • Cyclic AMP Response Element Modulator