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Hyperforin modifies neuronal membrane properties in vivo.

Gunter P Eckert1, Jan-Henning Keller, Claudia Jourdan

  • 1Institute of Pharmacology, J.W. Goethe-University, Biocenter N260, Marie-Curie-Strasse 9, 60439 Frankfurt, Germany. g.p.eckert@em.uni-frankfurt.de

Neuroscience Letters
|August 28, 2004
PubMed
Summary

St. John's Wort extract and its active component, hyperforin, alter brain membrane fluidity. These changes in neuronal membranes correlate with hyperforin brain levels and may explain its therapeutic effects.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • St. John's Wort (SJW) extract is used for depression.
  • Hyperforin is the main active compound in SJW.
  • SJW is thought to affect neurotransmitter systems by altering neuronal membrane properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of SJW extract and hyperforin on murine brain membrane fluidity.
  • To determine if hyperforin levels in the brain correlate with changes in membrane properties.

Main Methods:

  • Mice were administered SJW extract or hyperforin sodium salt orally.
  • Brain membrane fluidity was measured using biophysical techniques.
  • Hyperforin brain levels were quantified.

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Main Results:

  • Oral administration led to significant hyperforin concentrations in the brain.
  • Hyperforin treatment decreased annular and bulk membrane fluidity.
  • Hyperforin increased acyl-chain flexibility in brain membranes.
  • Changes in membrane properties were significantly correlated with brain hyperforin levels.

Conclusions:

  • Hyperforin interacts with neuronal membranes.
  • This membrane interaction may contribute to the pharmacological effects of St. John's Wort.
  • The findings provide a potential mechanism for SJW's therapeutic actions.