Jaseng Bio & Jaseng Hospital of Korean Medicine
First to Identify the Cellular Mechanism Behind Nerve Regeneration

The neuroregenerative and antioxidant effects of deer antler, a prized traditional herbal medicine, have been scientifically validated. This marks the first time the specific mechanisms through which deer antler promotes nerve cell regeneration have been identified.

The R&D Center of Jaseng Bio and the Spine & Joint Research Institute of Jaseng Hospital of Korean Medicine recently published their findings on the neuroprotective and regenerative effects of deer antler. In the study, researchers extracted neurons from the cerebral cortex of embryonic rats at 17 days of gestation and induced neuronal cell death using hydrogen peroxide. When deer antler extract was introduced to the damaged neurons, it stimulated the secretion of Nrf2, a natural antioxidant in the body, significantly increasing neuronal survival rates.

Notably, the extract also enhanced the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF)—proteins known to promote nerve regeneration. Increased levels of these factors improved the function of damaged neurons and facilitated the formation of additional synapses, which are essential for cell-to-cell communication.

Furthermore, neurons treated with deer antler extract showed accelerated recovery of axons, the primary pathways for signal transmission. In hydrogen peroxide-treated neurons, researchers observed the formation of "retraction bulbs," which inhibit axonal regeneration. However, the introduction of deer antler extract suppressed retraction bulb formation and promoted the regeneration of "growth cones," essential for axonal repair. These findings suggest that deer antler not only protects neurons but also aids in the recovery of impaired neural functions.

While deer antler has long been associated with benefits such as improved memory, growth promotion, and enhanced vitality, this is the first scientific study to confirm its neuroregenerative effects. The findings have been published in Biology, an SCI-indexed international journal.

Dr. Jeom-Yong Kim, Director of Jaseng Bio Research Institute, stated, "We will continue to scientifically explore the efficacy and excellence of deer antler. Our ultimate goal is to develop accessible health supplements for the general public."

Source: 한국경제(https://www.hankyung.com/)