Epimedium brevicornu Maxim extract shows protective activity against Alzheimer's disease in mice

Purpose: To investigate the protective effect of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim extract (EBME) against Alzheimer's disease in 3xTg-AD mice. Methods: The cognitive function of 3xTg-AD mice was assessed using Morris water maze test. The levels of amyloid beta deposits and NeuN in the mouse hippocampus were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Brain neurotrophic-derived factor (BDNF) and tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) expressions were examined by western blot analysis. Results: EBME treatment significantly ameliorated learning and memory deficits in AD mice, as shown by the increased time spent in the target zone during probe tests. Compared with the 3xTg-AD mice (8.4 +/- 1.1 s), the escape latency in animals treated with 600 mg/kg EBME (21.5 +/- 1.1 s) was significantly increased (p < 0.01). In addition, EBME significantly decreased A beta deposits, increased NeuN-positive cells, and upregulated the expressions of BDNF (1.5 +/- 0.2, p < 0.05) and TrkB (1.6 +/- 0.2, p < 0.05) in the 3xTg AD mice. Conclusion: EBME treatment may be a useful therapeutic strategy for managing memory impairment.