Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of kissoone B and extracts of Valeriana amurensis

Extracts of the roots and rhizomes of Valeriana amurensis P. Smirn. ex Kom ., Caprifoliaceae, and kissoone B have shown a potential effect on neurological disorders in the past. We researched the anti-inflammatory effects and cell protective function of kissoone B and extracts of V. amurensis by the standard lactate dehydrogenase release test, and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide survival assay. We also studied the effects of kissoone B and extracts of V. amurensis on γ-aminobutyric acid content in astrocytes Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium/F12 medium. The petroleum ether part increased extracellular γ-aminobutyric acid concentration significantly, and kissoone B displayed about 60% effect of the petroleum ether part, close to the γ-aminobutyric acid release of ethyl acetate part. Then, the petroleum ether part of V. amurensis was administered to mouse, and γ-aminobutyric acid concentration in the mouse brain was determined. Γ-aminobutyric acid level in the mouse brain was increased significantly after administration of the petroleum ether part of V. amurensis. The water residue fraction protected cells and the purified fraction may have a potential treatment for neurological diseases, especially Alzheimer disease.