Memory-enhancing effect of Rhodiola rosea L extract on aged mice

Purpose : The memory-enhancing effects of Rhodiola rosea L. extract (RRLE) on normal aged mice were assessed. Methods : In the open-field test, the effect of RRLE (150 and 300 mg/kg) on mouse locomotive activities was evaluated by investigating the extract’s influence on CAT and AchE activities in the brain tissue of mice. Results : Compared with aged group, high dose of RRLE reduced the total distance (3212.4 ± 123.1 cm, p < 0.05) significantly, increased catalase (CAT) activity (101.4 ± 12.2 U/mg pro, p < 0.05), and inhibited acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity (0.94 ± 0.12 U/mg pro, p < 0.05) in the brain tissue of aged mice. Conclusion : The results show that RRLE improves the memory functions of aged mice probably by increasing CAT activity while decreasing AChE activity. Keywords : Rhodiola rosea, Memory function, Catalase, Acetyl cholinesterase, Open-field test