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Molecular mechanisms of action of the total fraction of saponins from Red Korean Ginseng on the elements of the intracellular signalling system of the cells of ascitic Ehrlich carcinoma (AEC) were studied. The action of the total fraction of the saponins on the AEC cells was compared with that of the classic activator of such cells i.e. ATP. It was shown that the action of the total fraction of the saponins was similar to that of ATP. In concentrations of 10(-6) to 10(-3) per cent saponin induced an increase of [Ca2+]j mobilizing Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and activating the Ca2+ inlet to the cells. The same as in case with the use of ATP the Ca2+ mobilization from ER was reversible. In comparison to ATP saponin induced higher activation of the Ca2+ inlet to ER and the cells. The same as ATP saponin activated the Na+/H+ exchange and the Ca2+ - dependent K+-channels. Out of all the mention-ed parameters only the activation of the Ca2+ inlet to the cells was probably the direct result of the saponin action. The changes in the other parameters were mediated by nonspecific activation of the purine receptor. The analysis of the kinetic data demonstrated that unlike the ATP-dependent activation of the purine receptor the saponins first of all activated the inlet of Ca2+ to the cells and only after that the mobilization of the latter from ER.