Ginsenoside Rd induces protective anti-Candida albicans antibody through immunological adjuvant activity

The role of an antibody against candidiasis is controversial. However, a certain Candida albicans surface epitope produces a protective antibody. Yet, its isolation is difficult. In this study, we investigated if ginsenoside Rd from Panax ginseng has an immunoadjuvant ability to induce surface mannan extract (CASM) to produce a protective antibody. Mice were immunized twice i.p. with an emulsion form of CASM mixed with one of the following: IFA [CASM/IFA], or CFA [CASM/CFA] or Rd with IFA [CASM/Rd/IFA]. One week after the booster, these mice were challenged i.v. with live C. albicans and their survivability was measured. Results showed that four of five CASM/Rd/IFA-vaccinated mice survived during the entire 110 day-observation period, whereas CASM/IFA- or CASM/CFA-vaccinated mice died within 19 and 23 days (P < 0.05). The antiserum from CASM/Rd/IFA-immunized mice transferred the protection to naïve mice, whereas antiserum from CASM/CFA-given mice was not protective although CASM/CFA induced an antibody four times greater than CASM/Rd/IFA. IgG isotyping revealed that CASM/Rd/IFA-vaccine produced the most abundant IgG and IgG2a-resulting in the highest ratio (1.32) of IgG2a to IgG, which is helpful in treating Th2-oriented candidiasis. In contrast, the formulae lacking Rd had these ratios less than 1. This strongly indicates that Rd could enhance Th1 immunity. Cytokine profiles and DTH further confirmed the Th1 dominance. Rd caused no hemolysis. Combining all of these data together, Rd can enhance Th1-response to CASM in mice. This protects mice against disseminated candidiasis by eliciting higher titers of Th1 type antibody and a Th1-dominant immune response.