고삼 추출물의 과민성 방광에 미치는 효과 및 급성독성 연구

Effects on Overactive Bladder and Acute Toxicity of the Extracts of Sophora flavescens Aiton

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common disorder and is accompanied with high urinary frequency, nocturia and urinary incontinence which causes unconscious urine loss immediately after urination. It may affect quality of life, sleep and mental health. Extract of Sophora flavescens (SR) Aiton contains kurarinone which has been reported to activate BK Ca channel and may have role in ameliorating OAB. In this study, the effects of the SR extracts on OAB and acute toxicity were investigated. We prepared the SR extracts using 30% EtOH after water extraction. Then we conducted void experiment (10, 30, 100 mg/kg P.O) using spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and WKY rats. The SR extracts decreased urine frequency in a dose-dependent manner. The results of acute toxicity test (500, 1000, 2000 mg/kg P.O), open field test (OFT), and rota-rod test did not show any significant difference compared to control group. These results indicate that the SR extracts may have a supportive role in OAB without a significant toxicity in low doses. Taken together, the SR extracts may be a good candidate for health functional food ameliorating OAB. However, in order to clarify these findings further investigation may be needed in the future.