Synergistic Effects Exerted by the Combination of Aster glehni and Vitamin B Complex on Cognitive Improvement

Abstract

Aster glehni Franchet et Sckmidt is mainly grown in Ulleungdo Island, Republic of Korea. It has been known as a medicinal herb that relieves frequent coughing, high fever, and severe pain. Although several recent studies have reported that Aster glehni might have neuroprotective and memory-enhancing effects, research on the effects of improving cognitive function is insufficient. This study was therefore undertaken to investigate whether ethanolic extracts from leaves and stems of Aster glehni (EAG) have an effect on improving cognitive functions, through in vitro and in vivo assays. In addition, synergistic effects on cognitive improvement were evaluated by applying a combination of EAG with the vitamin B complex (VBC). The in vivo studies determined that EAG exerts cognitive improvement effects by reducing escape latency and increasing the time spent in the platform quadrant in the Morris water maze test. EAG treatment also inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity and increased the level of acetylcholine in mouse brain tissues. Moreover, we observed a protective effect against β-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma cells. These effects were further enhanced when combined with VBC. Therefore, these findings indicate that EAG treatment in combination with VBC has the potential to improve cognitive function more effectively than a single treatment.