This technology is a pharmaceutical composition that uses Houttuynia cordata extract as an active ingredient to prevent and treat muscle atrophy caused by the administration of steroids such as dexamethasone. The extract, obtained by cold macerating the leaves, stems, and roots of Houttuynia cordata in water or lower alcohols for an extended period, protects skeletal muscle cells and increases muscle mass.
Sarcopenia progresses with aging and increases the risk of falls and fractures, yet there has been no clear cure; representative hormone therapies have shown limited efficacy and have been linked to side effects. Dietary approaches requiring 25–30 g of high-quality protein per meal are difficult for the average person to maintain, while protein supplements carry risks of side effects from overconsumption and are not an option for elderly individuals or patients with impaired kidney function who cannot follow a high-protein diet.
This technology involves cold macerating a mixture of raw Houttuynia cordata leaves, stems, or roots in lower alcohol at or below room temperature for 48 to 120 hours to minimize damage to heat-sensitive components. The resulting extract inhibits the expression of myostatin, which triggers muscle protein degradation. In C2C12 muscle cells treated with dexamethasone, the extract maintained cell viability above 93% and increased muscle cell count. It can be applied as an adjuvant therapy for patients on long-term steroids, a muscle-health supplement for the elderly that is gentle on the kidneys, and a functional bio-material for muscle protection, preventing muscle loss from steroid side effects without relying on high protein intake.
WO2022-139544A1
