Kanuka bush leaves for Alzheimer’s disease: Improved inhibition of ?-secretase enzyme, antioxidant capacity and yield of extracts by ultrasound assisted extraction

Alzheimer?s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative leading to irreversible neuronal damage. Kanuka or Kunzea ericoides (A. Richard) revealed remarkable inhibition of ?-secretase activity, an important enzyme for AD. This study presents optimization the ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) inhibitors and antioxidants from K. leaves, yield by response surface methodology (RSM). Experimental validation optimized conditions 50% inhibitory extract concentrations (IC50) determinations were performed. The time temperature significant inhibition, RSA (DPPH radical scavenging activity) yield, while acoustic power density had less effect on 3 responses. optimum 15.6 min time, 69 °C 0.43 W/mL. produced better extracts in term (lower IC50: 14.25 ?g/mL enzyme, 3.17 RSA), comparison Soxhlet maceration combined with heat, more rapid increased extraction. Ultrasound kanuka can potentially complement existing AD treatment.