A proprietary extract from North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium), COLD-FX® (CVT-E002), has been found to be effective in the prevention of upper respiratory infections in a number of different groups including institutionalized seniors, community-dwelling seniors and healthy adults. These effects of COLD-FX are thought to be mediated by its ability to stimulate both the natural and acquired immune systems. Excessive exercise has been known to induce immune suppression and to increase the susceptibility for contracting recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. The purpose of the present study, therefore, was to determine if COLD-FX supplementation to players of National Hockey League caliber would be effective in altering the response of their leukocytes to influenza virus ex vivo. Peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) were isolated from 2 groups of NHL players and immediately cultured for 2.5 days in the presence of 3 strains of influenza virus. One group (n=18) had been taking COLD-FX (400 mg/day) for 30 days, while the control group (n=19) was supplement free. Cultured PBLs isolated from those taking COLD-FX (400 mg/day) and stimulated with 3 strains of influenza virus released more TNF-α and IL-2, however, moderated granzyme-B release. This indicates that COLD-FX supplementation enhanced cell-mediated immune response of PBLs to influenza viruses and likely moderated the levels of cytotoxic T-cell effector molecules, sustained release of which may lead to autoimmune conditions. Additional studies on elite athletes, whose immune systems may be compromised, are warranted.
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