본 연구에서는 예비실험결과 높은 총 페놀 화합물 함량(17.71 mg/g)을 나타낸 어성초 60% 메탄올 추출물의 항산화 효과 및 신경세포 보호효과를 알아보기 위해 다양한 연구를 진행하였다. 어성초의 DPPH와 ABTS radical 소거 활성 및 FRAP assay결과 농도 의존적인 경향이 나타났으며, 높은 항산화 활성을 보여주었다. MTT, LDH assay를 통한 신경세포 보호효과를 측정한 결과 MTT 실험에서는 어성초 60% 메탄올 추출물
The in vitro antioxidant activities and neuronal cell protective effects of 60% (w/v) methanolic extract from Houttuynia cordata were investigated. The contents of total phenolics and quercitrin in the extract were 17.71 mg/g and 75.80 /g, respectively. DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging activities were 87.79% and 99.27%, respectively, when the extract was tested at 5 mg/ml. The FRAP (ferric reducing/antioxidant power) assay showed a dose-dependent increse in activity. In a cell viability assay using MTT, the extract protected against -induced neurotoxicity. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage was also inhibited by the extract, as was lipid peroxidation as shown using the mouse brain homogenate test. These data indicate that a 60% (w/v) methanolic extract of Houttuynia cordata has in vitro antioxidant activities, and ingestion there of may reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders.