Quantitative Analysis, Extraction Optimization, and Biological Evaluation of Cudrania tricuspidata Leaf and Fruit Extracts

Abstract

<i>Cudrania tricuspidata</i> Bureau (Moraceae) shows numerous pharmacological effects and has been used in traditional herbal remedies for inflammation, gastritis, tumors, and liver diseases. However, no validated analytical method for the standardization and optimization of the biological properties of <i>C. tricuspidata</i> preparations has been reported. We developed and validated a reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the separation and quantification of active markers. Ethanolic extracts of <i>C. tricuspidata</i> leaves were prepared and evaluated for chemical profiles and biological activities. The 80% ethanolic extract demonstrated the greatest antioxidant activity and phenolic content, while the 100% ethanolic extract had the greatest total flavonoid content and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity. The validated HPLC method confirmed that chlorogenic acid, rutin, and kaempferol were present in <i>C. tricuspidata</i> leaf extracts. We postulated that the antioxidant and anti-hyperuricemic/gout effects of <i>C. tricuspidata</i> extract could be attributed to these marker compounds. Our results suggested that the flavonoid-rich fraction of the leaf extract may be utilized for the treatment and prevention of hyperuricemia-related diseases, and the validated method and marker compounds could be applied for the quality control of <i>C. tricuspidata</i> preparations.