Enhanced macrophage function of red ginseng acidic polysaccharide(RGAP) in combination with IFN-$\gamma$

In this study we examined the potential for the synergistic augmentation of the activity of inflammatory mouse peritoneal macrophages by stimulation with RGAP combined with IFN-$\gamma$. The moderate augmentative effect induced by preincubation with RGAP was observed in the production of IL-1, IL-6 and NO but not TNF-$\alpha$. In addition, IFN-$\gamma$ had a low activating effect. Following preincubation with both RGAP A and IFN-$\gamma$, a marked enhancement of secretory activity and tumoricidal activity was noted in mouse peritoneal macrophages. Treatment of peritoneal macrophage with combination increased the generation of IL-1, IL-6, TNF-$\alpha$ and NO, whereas the production of reactive oxygen species were not altered. These results demonstrate the synergistic effects on macrophage function of RGAP in combination with IFN-$\gamma$ and suggest that the ability of IFN-$\gamma$ to prime macrophages to produce secretory molecules in response to RGAP may have implications for immunotherapy with this combination.