Abstract

Huperzine a (Hup a) discovered in Chinese plant Lycopodium serratum Thunb has been used for preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) in recent years. It is a natural, efficient and reversible inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which has a significant effect on AD. With multiple pharmacological effects, Hup a is able to restrain AChE and memory impairment. In addition to this, it has several neuroprotective effects including influencing cholinergic neurotransmitters in the brain, protecting cerebral nerve cells and oxidative injuries induced by amyloid beta. In addition, the neuroprotective effect of Hup a is attributed to resist N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors and regulating nerve growth factor. Moreover, Hup a has effects on reducing iron in the brain for treating AD.