journal article·2026-02-28Open access

Immunohistochemical, Biochemical and Genetic Evaluation of the Effects of Ginseng Administration on Blood–Brain Barrier in Rats Exposed to 2100 MHz and 2450 MHz Electromagnetic Radiation

İrem Postacı Karaman, Özlem Coşkun, Nurgül Şenol, Uğur Şahin, Selçuk Çömlekçi

Applied Sciences· Volume 16· Issue 5

Abstract

Numerous studies have demonstrated that the brain and blood–brain barrier, which are sensitive targets for cell phone and microwave radiation, are damaged after exposure. Additionally, ginseng has been shown to play a role in preserving the integrity of the blood–brain barrier. In this study, we investigated the immunohistochemical, genetic and biochemical effects of electromagnetic field (EMF) on the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and the protective role of ginseng on these effects. The animals were randomly allocated into seven groups (eight in each group): group I: control, group II: sham, group III: ginseng, group IV: 2100 MHz EMF, group V: 2100 MHz EMF + ginseng, group VI: 2450 MHz EMF, group VII: 2450 MHz EMF + ginseng. EMF groups exposed to EMF, 1 h day−1 for 30 days. Ginseng was administered 150 mg/kg/day for 30 days. As a result, it was determined immunohistochemically that EMF caused apoptosis in brain tissue. It was observed that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) gene decreased and B-cell lymphoma/leukemia-2 gene (BCL-2)-associated X (BAX) protein increased in EMF groups, as well as apoptosis formation. On the other hand, it was concluded that ginseng decreased the harmful effects by increasing the expression of the COX-2 gene and decreasing the BAX protein in this process leading to apoptosis.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Electromagnetic Fields and Biological Effects · Ginseng Biological Effects and Applications · Physical Activity and Education Research

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Science and Technology, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Turkey

Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Turkey

Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Turkey

Genetic Research Unit, Innovative Technologies Application and Research Center, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32260, Turkey

Funding

Süleyman Demirel University

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