Advances in the study of berberine and its derivatives: a focus on anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects in the digestive system

Berberine: An Important Emphasis on Its Anticancer Effects through Modulation of Various Cell Signaling Pathways

Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of disease and a major cause of death worldwide. Despite advancement in various treatment modules, there has been little improvement in survival rates and side effects associated with this disease. Medicinal plants or their bioactive compounds have been extensively studied for their anticancer potential. Novel drugs based on natural products are urgently needed to manage cancer through attenuation of different cell signaling pathways. In this regard, berberine is a bioactive alkaloid that is found in variety of plants, and an inverse association has been revealed between its consumption and cancer. Berberine exhibits an anticancer role through scavenging free radicals, induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of angiogenesis, inflammation, PI3K/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Wnt/β-catenin, and the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. In addition, synergistic effects of berberine with anticancer drugs or natural compounds have been proven in several cancers. This review outlines the anticancer effects and mechanisms of action of berberine in different cancers through modulation of various cell signaling pathways. Moreover, the recent developments in the drug delivery systems and synergistic effect of berberine are explained.

The mechanism of berberine alleviating metabolic disorder based on gut microbiome

With socioeconomic advances and improved living standards, metabolic syndrome has increasingly come into the attention. In recent decades, a growing number of studies have shown that the gut microbiome and its metabolites are closely related to the occurrence and development of many metabolic diseases, and play an important role that cannot be ignored, for instance, obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cardiovascular disease and others. The correlation between gut microbiota and metabolic disorder has been widely recognized. Metabolic disorder could cause imbalance in gut microbiota, and disturbance of gut microbiota could aggravate metabolic disorder as well. Berberine (BBR), as a natural ingredient, plays an important role in the treatment of metabolic disorder. Studies have shown that BBR can alleviate the pathological conditions of metabolic disorders, and the mechanism is related to the regulation of gut microbiota: gut microbiota could regulate the absorption and utilization of berberine in the body; meanwhile, the structure and function of gut microbiota also changed after intervention by berberine. Therefore, we summarize relevant mechanism research, including the expressions of nitroreductases-producing bacteria to promote the absorption and utilization of berberine, strengthening intestinal barrier function, ameliorating inflammation regulating bile acid signal pathway and axis of bacteria-gut-brain. The aim of our study is to clarify the therapeutic characteristics of berberine further and provide the theoretical basis for the regulation of metabolic disorder from the perspective of gut microbiota.

Toxicity and toxicokinetics of the ethanol extract of Zuojin formula

Background

Zuojin formula, a traditional Chinese medicine, comprises Coptis chinensis and Evodia rutaecarpa. In our previous study, the total alkaloid extract from Zuojin formula (TAZF) showed potent and improved efficacy. However, its safety and toxicokinetics remain unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of repeated administrations of TAZF and investigate the internal exposure of the main components and its relationship with toxic symptoms.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rats were orally administered TAZF at 0.4, 1.2 and 3.7 g/kg for 28 days, which was followed by a 14-day recovery period. The toxic effects were evaluated weekly by assessing body weight changes, food intake, blood biochemistry and haematological indices, organ weights and histological changes. A total of eight components were detected, including berberine, coptisine, epiberberine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, columbamine, evodiamine, and rutaecarpine. The toxicokinetic profiles of the eight components were investigated after single and repeated administrations. Linear mixed effect models were applied to analyse the associations between internal exposure and toxic symptoms. Network pharmacology analysis was applied to explore the potential toxic mechanisms.

Results

Compared with the vehicle group, the rats in the low- and medium-dose groups did not show noticeable abnormal changes, while rats in the high-dose group exhibited inhibition of weight gain, a slight reduction in food consumption, abdominal bloating and atrophy of the splenic white pulp during drug administration. The concentration of berberine in plasma was the highest among all compounds. Epiberberine was found to be associated with the inhibition of weight gain. Network pharmacology analysis suggested that the alkaloids might cause abdominal bloating by affecting the proliferation of smooth muscle cells. The benchmark dose lower confidence limits (based on body weight inhibition) of TAZF were 1.27 g/kg (male) and 1.91 g/kg (female).

Conclusions

TAZF has no notable liver or kidney toxicity but carries risks of gastrointestinal and immune toxicity at high doses. Alkaloids from Coptis chinensis are the main plasma components related to the toxic effects of TAZF.

Structural modifications of berberine and their binding effects towards polymorphic deoxyribonucleic acid structures: A review

Berberine (BBR) is a plant derived quaternary benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, which has been widely used in traditional medicines for a long term. It possesses broad pharmacological effects and is widely applied in clinical. In recent years, the anti-tumor effects of BBR have attracted more and more attention of the researchers. The canonical right-handed double-stranded helical deoxyribonucleic acid (B-DNA) and its polymorphs occur under various environmental conditions and are involved in a plethora of genetic instability-related diseases especially tumor. BBR showed differential binding effects towards various polymorphic DNA structures. But its poor lipophilicity and fast metabolism limited its clinical utility. Structural modification of BBR is an effective approach to improve its DNA binding activity and bioavailability in vivo. A large number of studies dedicated to improving the binding affinities of BBR towards different DNA structures have been carried out and achieved tremendous advancements. In this article, the main achievements of BBR derivatives in polymorphic DNA structures binding researches in recent 20 years were reviewed. The structural modification strategy of BBR, the DNA binding effects of its derivatives, and the structure activity relationship (SAR) analysis have also been discussed.

Berberine alkaloids inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of breast carcinoma cells involving Wnt/β-catenin signaling and EMT

Berberine alkaloids belong to the class of isoquinoline alkaloids that have been shown to possess anticancer potential, berberine exhibits inhibitory effects on breast cancer development. However, the exact mechanisms of action for anti-breast carcinoma of the alkaloids, including epiberberine, berberrubine and dihydroberberine are still unclear. MTT assay, colony formation, wound healing and transwell invasion assays detected these alkaloids suppressed proliferation, migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Hoechst and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining were used to analyze the apoptosis of breast cancer cells. Western blotting investigated the changes noted in the expression levels of the key proteins involved in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). The results showed that inhibited the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Berberine alkaloids inhibited the cell cycle at G2/M phase in MCF-7 cells, but in MDA-MB-231 cells berberine alkaloids arrested the cell cycle in G0/G1 and G2/M phases. By decreasing β-catenin expression, increasing GSK-3β expression and decreasing N-cadherin expression, increasing E-cadherin expression, which proved that epiberberine, berberrubine and dihydroberberine inhibited of metastasis of breast cancer cells through Wnt signaling pathway and reversed EMT except berberine. Furthermore, berberine alkaloids exert their anti-breast cancer effects through the synergistic action of intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis. These findings highlight the different effects of different berberine alkaloids on breast cancer cells and confirm that berberine alkaloids may be potentially used in the treatment of breast cancer.

AIE-based gold nanostar-berberine dimer nanocomposites for PDT and PTT combination therapy toward breast cancer

We designed and synthesized three new berberine-based compounds, namely, pyridine-2,6-dimethyl-/2,2'-bipyridine-3,3'-dimethyl-tethered berberine dimers BD1 and BD2, and a tetrakis(4-benzyl)ethylene linked berberine tetramer BD4. We identified that the dimer BD2 and tetramer BD4, as well as 1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dimethyl-linked berberine dimer BD3 previously reported by us, showed remarkable aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties which endowed them with higher singlet oxygen (¹O₂) production ability than berberine. Of the four compounds, BD3 exhibits the lowest ΔE_ST energy with the highest ¹O₂ generation ability and thus was selected for further construction of AuNSs-BD3@HA (denoted as ABH, AuNSs = gold nanostars; HA = hyaluronic acid). The nanosystem of ABH shows a remarkable therapeutic effect toward breast cancer by combining photodynamic therapy (PDT) from BD3, photothermal therapy (PTT) from AuNSs, and the CD44-targeting capability of HA. The synergistically enhanced PDT and PTT induce superior cancer cell apoptosis/necrosis in vitro and anti-breast cancer activity in vivo. This study provides a new concept for PDT using natural product derivatives and their combination with PTT for efficient treatment of tumors.

Yeast Microcapsule Mediated Natural Products Delivery for Treating Ulcerative Colitis through Anti-Inflammatory and Regulation of Macrophage Polarization

The common and frequent disease, ulcerative colitis (UC), causes serious physical and mental distress to patients. M2 macrophages have proven to play a role in anti-inflammation, which is a new potential target for UC therapy. In this study, we designed a safe and macrophages-targeting oral drug delivery system. Natural products, berberine (BBR), and Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) with anti-inflammatory activity were assembled and encapsulated into yeast microcapsule (YM), generating therapeutic system BBR/MPN@YM. BBR and EGCG exhibited synergistic effects against UC through the effect of antioxidation. Through the interaction between β-1,3-d-glucan on the surface of YM and dectin-1 receptors on macrophages, BBR/MPN@YM could be effectively transported to inflammation parts and internalized into macrophages, avoiding gastric degradation. In the in vivo UC mouse model, BBR/MPN@YM could transform M1 macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, thus exerting specific anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, this BBR/MPN@YM targeted oral drug delivery system provided a new macrophages-targeting strategy for the clinical treatment of UC.

Solid lipid nanoformulation of berberine attenuates Doxorubicin triggered in vitro inflammation in H9c2 rat cardiomyocytes

AIM

To evaluate berberine solid lipid nanoparticles' efficacy against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

BACKGROUND

Berberine (Ber) is cardioprotective, but its oral bioavailability is low and its effect in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity has not been studied.

OBJECTIVE

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of berberine chloride were prepared, characterized and evaluated in vitro against Doxorubicin induced cardiomyocyte injury.

METHODOLOGY

Berberine loaded SLNs (Ber-SLNs) were synthesized using water-in-oil microemulsion technique with tripalmitin, Tween 80 and poloxamer 407. Ber-SLNs were evaluated for preventive effect against toxicity of Doxorubicin in H9c2 cells. The culture was pre-treated (24 h) with Ber (10 µM) and Ber-SLNs (1 and 10 µM) and exposed to 1 µM of Doxorubicin (Dox) was added for 3 h. The cell viability (LDH (Lactate dehydrogenase) assay and MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide)), levels of Creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), Nitrite, MDA (Malondialdehyde), ROS (Reactive oxygen species) generation and apoptotic DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) content were assessed.

RESULTS

Ber-SLNs had a mean particle size of 13.12±1.188 nm, zeta potential of -1.05 ± 0.08 mV, poly-dispersity index (PDI) of 0.317 ± 0.05 and entrapment efficiency of 50 ± 4.8%. Cell viability was 81  0.17% for Ber-SLNs (10 µM) and 73.22  0.83% for Ber (10 µM) treated cells in MTT assay. Percentage cytotoxicity calculated from LDH release was 58.91  0.54% after Dox, 40.3  1.3% with Ber (10 µM) and 40.7  1.3% with Ber-SLNs (1 µM) (p<0.001). Inflammation and oxidative stress markers were lower with Ber and Ber-SLNs. Attenuation of ROS generation and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes were noted on fluorescence microscopy.

CONCLUSION

Ber loaded SLNs effectively prevented Doxorubicin-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in rat cardiomyocytes. The results demonstrate that microemulsion is a simple, cost-effective technique to prepare Ber-SLNs and may be considered as a drug delivery vehicle for berberine.

Effects of Berberine on Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, otherwise known as hepatocellular carcinoma, is a chronic disease condition with an excessive deposition and growth of malignant cells in the body. The high incidence and prevalence rates of liver cancer continue to be problems, as well as its poor prognosis and therapeutic limitations involving severe drug adverse reactions linked to the use of synthetic chemotherapeutic compounds. Continuous experimental studies, as well as utilization of pure herbal-based compounds, are essential towards finding more potent cures for liver cancer. Natural bioactive compounds, particularly alkaloids (eg, berberine), have been shown to be highly beneficial in the treatment of various diseases. Berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid, is obtained from stem, bark, roots, rhizomes, and leaves of several medicinal plants, including Berberis species. It is commonly synthesized from the benzyltetrahydroisoquinoline system with the incorporation of an additional carbon atom as a bridge. The multiple attributes of BBR involving effective inhibitory and cytotoxic actions against the proliferation of cancer cells have been demonstrated. The use of BBR in experimental studies (in vivo and in vitro) for over a decade for liver cancer treatment has proven to be highly effective, safe, and potent. Until now, the poor solubility of BBR remains one of the contributing factors leading to its minimal clinical bioavailability. Therefore, BBR could serve as a prospective drug candidate in the future towards drug formulation for liver cancer treatment. The relevant information regarding this review was obtained electronically through the use of databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Springer, Hindawi, Embase, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. All the aforementioned databases were searched from 1981 to 2020. This literature represents an update of previous review papers discussing the various positive pharmacological and mechanistic effects (oxidative stress regulation, inflammation reduction, apoptosis activation, overcoming drug resistance, and metastasis inhibition) of BBR for liver cancer treatment, which would be of great significance to drug development and clinical research.

Berberine Attenuates Cell Motility via Inhibiting Inflammation-Mediated Lysyl Hydroxylase-2 and Glycolysis

Lysyl hydroxylase-2 (LH2) involves in the hydroxylation of telopeptide lysine residues during collagen deposition. Recent studies indicate that interleukin (IL)-6 generated by the chronic inflammation disease may trigger the LH2 expression to accelerate cell motility. Berberine is the alkaloid derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Coptis chinensis, which displays potential anti-inflammatory activity in multiple diseases. The anti-inflammatory activity of berberine has been confirmed by reducing proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, and IFN-γ. However, whether and how berberine inhibits cellular motility against metastatic spread in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has not been demonstrated, and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We investigated the effects of berberine on the inflammatory cytokine secretion, cell proliferation, and migration in vitro and further explored the effect of berberine on growth and metastasis in vivo. Berberine restrained TNBC cell proliferation, motility, and glycolysis process in a dose-dependent way. The secretion of IL-6 was abrogated by berberine in TNBC cells, and IL-6-stimulated cell migration was inhibited by berberine. Mechanistically, berberine remarkably suppressed LH2 expression at both mRNA and protein levels. LH2 depletion led to decreasing the antimotility effect of berberine, and this phenomenon was related to the suppressed glycolysis after LH2 inhibition. Conversely, ectopic restoration of LH2 could further increase the antimotility effect of berberine. Moreover, berberine was confirmed to inhibit cell growth and motility in vivo, and the expression of LH2 and glycolytic enzymes was also blocked by berberine in vivo. Collectively, this study indicated that berberine could be a promising therapeutic drug via regulating LH2 for TNBC.

Molecular Insights into Therapeutic Potentials of Hybrid Compounds Targeting Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most complex progressive neurological disorders involving degeneration of neuronal connections in brain cells leading to cell death. AD is predominantly detected among elder people (> 65 years), mostly diagnosed with the symptoms of memory loss and cognitive dysfunctions. The multifarious pathogenesis of AD comprises the accumulation of pathogenic proteins, decreased neurotransmission, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. The conventional therapeutic approaches are limited to symptomatic benefits and are ineffective against disease progression. In recent years, researchers have shown immense interest in the designing and fabrication of various novel therapeutics comprised of naturally isolated hybrid molecules. Hybrid therapeutic compounds are developed from the combination of pharmacophores isolated from bioactive moieties which specifically target and block various AD-associated pathogenic pathways. The method of designing hybrid molecules has numerous advantages over conventional multitarget drug development methods. In comparison to in silico high throughput screening, hybrid molecules generate quicker results and are also less expensive than fragment-based drug development. Designing hybrid-multitargeted therapeutic compounds is thus a prospective approach in developing an effective treatment for AD. Nevertheless, several issues must be addressed, and additional researches should be conducted to develop hybrid therapeutic compounds for clinical usage while keeping other off-target adverse effects in mind. In this review, we have summarized the recent progress on synthesis of hybrid compounds, their molecular mechanism, and therapeutic potential in AD. Using synoptic tables, figures, and schemes, the review presents therapeutic promise and potential for the development of many disease-modifying hybrids into next-generation medicines for AD.

Effects of berberine on leukemia with a focus on its molecular targets

Leukemia is a common cancer among both women and men worldwide. Besides the fact that finding new treatment methods may enhance the life quality of patients, there are several problems that we face today in treating leukemia patients, such as drugs side effects and acquired resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. Berberine is a bioactive alkaloid found in herbal plants (e.g. Rhizoma coptidis and Cortex phellodendri) and exerts several beneficial functions, including anti-tumor activities. Furthermore, berberine exerts antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. Up to now, some studies have investigated the roles of berberine in different types of leukemia, including acute myeloid leukemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In this review, a detailed description of berberine roles in leukemia is provided. We discuss how berberine involves different molecular targets (e.g. interleukins and cyclins) and signaling pathways (e.g. mTOR and PI3K) to exert its anti-tumor functions and how berberine is effective in leukemia treatment when combined with other therapeutic drugs.

The discovery of berberine erythrocyte-hemoglobin self-assembly delivery system: a neglected carrier underlying its pharmacokinetics

Berberine (BBR) has extremely low concentration and high tissue distribution. However, current pharmacokinetic studies predominantly focus on its concentration in plasma, which could hardly make a comprehensive understanding of its pharmacokinetic process. This study made a pioneering endeavor to explore the erythrocyte-hemoglobin (Hb) self-assembly system of BBR by exploring the interaction of BBR with erythrocyte and the combination of BBR with Hb. Results showed that BBR had a low bioavailability (C₀ = 2.833 μg/mL via intravenous administration of 2.5 mg/kg BBR and C_max = 0.260 μg/mL via oral administration of 400 mg/kg BBR). Besides, BBR achieved higher concentrations in erythrocytes than plasma, and the erythrocytes count and Hb content were significantly decreased after intravenous administration. Hemolysis rate indicated the BBR-erythrocyte system (with 2% erythrocytes) was relatively stable without hemolysis at the concentration of 1.00 mg/mL. And the maximum percentage of drug loading was 100% when the BBR-erythrocyte concentration was 0.185 μg/mL. Furthermore, incubation of BBR and erythrocytes resulted in internalization of the erythrocyte membrane and the formation of intracellular vacuoles. The thermodynamic parameters indicated that the binding process of bovine hemoglobin (BHB) and BBR was spontaneous. UV-vis absorption spectra, synchronous fluorescence, circular dichroism and Raman spectra collectively indicated that BBR showed strong binding affinity toward BHB and affected the molecular environment of residues like tryptophan and tyrosine in BHB, resulting in the conformational changes of its secondary and tertiary structure. Molecular docking indicated BBR interacted with Arg-141 residue of BHB via hydrogen bond with the bond length of 2.55 Å. The ΔG value of the BHB-BBR system was −31.79 kJ/mol. Molecular dynamics simulation indicated the root mean square derivation of BBR-BHB was <0.025 nm, suggestive of stable conformation. Cumulatively, there was an erythrocyte-Hb self-assembled drug delivery system after oral or intravenous administration of BBR, which conceivably gained novel insight into the discrepancy between the extremely low plasma concentration and relatively high tissue concentration of BBR.

Nanoparticles as phytochemical carriers for cancer treatment: News of the last decade

INTRODUCTION

The development and application of novel therapeutic medicines for the treatment of cancer are of vital importance to improve the disease's outcome and survival rate. One noteworthy treatment approach is the use of biologically active compounds present in natural products. Even though these phytocompounds present anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, their use is limited essentially due to poor systemic delivery, low bioavailability, and water solubility concerns. To make full use of the anticancer potential of natural products, these limitations need to be technologically addressed. In this sense, nanotechnology emerges as a promising drug delivery system strategy.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, the benefits and potential of nanodelivery systems for natural products encapsulation as promising therapeutic approaches for cancer, which were developed during the last decade, are highlighted.

EXPERT OPINION

The nanotechnology area has been under extensive research in the medical field given its capacity for improving the therapeutic potential of drugs by increasing their bioavailability and allowing a targeted delivery to the tumor site. Thereby, the nanoencapsulation of phytocompounds can have a direct impact on the recognized therapeutic activity of natural products towards cancer.

Internalization of benzylisoquinoline alkaloids by resting and activated bone marrow-derived mast cells utilizes energy-dependent mechanisms

Objective and design

Drug delivery to inflammatory cells is dependent upon poorly understood, complex endocytic processes. Berberine (BBR), a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, binds to heparin and targets glycosaminoglycan-rich granules in mast cells (MC), but the mechanism of BBR internalization is unknown.

Methods

BMMC were treated with various concentrations of BBR for different amounts of time and BBR internalization was assessed by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. BMMC were pretreated with endocytic inhibitors or a growth factor (IL-3) prior to BBR exposure to access mechanisms of its internalization.

Results

After 24 h, 48 ± 0.8% of BMMC internalized BBR and this process was dependent upon temperature and the presence of glucose in the medium. Methanol fixation reduced BBR internalization, suggesting the involvement of an energy-dependent active transport mechanism. To determine mode of internalization, BBR was encapsulated into Lipofectamine TM lipoplexes since these are known to circumvent classical endocytic pathways. Incorporating BBR into lipoplexes decreased BBR internalization by 26% and 10% (10 μg/ml and 100 μg/ml Lipo-BBR respectively) by BMMC. BBR endocytosis was significantly reduced by Latrunculin B (88%), Cytochalasin B (87%), Chloroquine (86.5%) and 3-methyladenine (91%), indicating that actin polymerization, lysosomal pH and lysosomal self-degradation via the autophagy pathway was involved. In contrast, IL-3 treatment significantly enhanced BBR endocytosis (54% by 40 ng/ml IL-3) suggesting that IL-3 signaling pathways play a role in internalization.

Conclusions

Our data suggests that internalization of BBR by resting and IL-3-activated BMMC utilizes an energy-dependent pathway that is dependent upon glucose metabolism and temperature. Furthermore, this process requires actin polymerization and lysosomal trafficking. These data suggest internalization of benzylisoquinoline compounds is an active and complex process.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00011-021-01526-2.

Phosphodiesterase‑4 inhibitors: a review of current developments (2013-2021)

INTRODUCTION

Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) is responsible for the hydrolysis of cAMP, which has become an attractive therapeutic target for lung, skin, and severe neurological diseases. Here, we review the current status of development of PDE4 inhibitors since 2013 and discuss the applicability of novel medicinal-chemistry strategies for identifying more efficient and safer inhibitors.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes the clinical development of PDE4 inhibitors from 2013 to 2021, focused on their pharmacophores, the strategies to reduce the side effects of PDE4 inhibitors and the development of subfamily selective PDE4 inhibitors.

EXPERT OPINION

To date, great efforts have been made in the development of PDE4 inhibitors, and researchers have established a comprehensive preclinical database and collected some promising data from clinical trials. Although four small-molecule PDE4 inhibitors have been approved by FDA for the treatment of human diseases up to now, further development of other reported PDE4 inhibitors with strong potency has been hampered due to the occurrence of severe side effects. There are currently three main strategies for overcoming the dose limitation and systemic side effects, which provide new opportunities for the clinical development of new PDE4 inhibitors.

Effects of Berberine on Gut Microbiota in Patients with Mild Metabolic Disorders Induced by Olanzapine

Secondary metabolic disturbances in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may be attributed to olanzapine. It is important to prevent mild metabolic disorders progressing to metabolic syndrome. This study aims to investigate the effects of berberine on intestinal flora in patients with mild metabolic disorders induced by olanzapine. A total of 132 patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective psychosis that had been treated with olanzapine for at least 9 months were randomly assigned ([Formula: see text] = 66 each) to receive berberine or placebo tablets for 12 weeks. Metabolic assessments and intestinal flora were quantified at baseline and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of treatment. Incidence rates of adverse reactions were recorded. FPG, FPI, HOMA-IR, HbA1, TG, BMI, and WC were significantly lower in patients who received berberine compared to placebo after 12 weeks of treatment ([Formula: see text]< 0.05). The abundance of firmicutes and coliform were significantly lower and the abundance of bacteroides significantly higher in patients who received berberine compared to placebo after 12 weeks of treatment ([Formula: see text]< 0.05). In patients who received berberine, the abundance of firmicutes was significantly decreased, and the abundance of bacteroides was significantly increased, and in patients who received placebo, the abundance of firmicutes was significantly increased post-treatment, compared to baseline (both [Formula: see text]< 0.05). In conclusions, berberine may regulate intestinal flora and metabolism in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and mild metabolic disturbances induced by olanzapine.

Phytochemicals as inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor alpha and neuroinflammatory responses in neurodegenerative diseases

Inflammatory processes and proinflammatory cytokines have a key role in the cellular processes of neurodegenerative diseases and are linked to the pathogenesis of functional and mental health disorders. Tumor necrosis factor alpha has been reported to play a major role in the central nervous system in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and many other neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, a potent proinflammatory/proapoptotic tumor necrosis factor alpha could be a strong candidate for targeted therapy. Plant derivatives have now become promising candidates as therapeutic agents because of their antioxidant and chemical characteristics, and anti-inflammatory features. Recently, phytochemicals including flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and lignans have generated interest as tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitor candidates for a number of diseases involving inflammation within the nervous system. In this review, we discuss how phytochemicals as tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors are a therapeutic strategy targeting neurodegeneration.

TAS2R16 Activation Suppresses LPS-Induced Cytokine Expression in Human Gingival Fibroblasts

Sustained and non-resolved inflammation is a characteristic of periodontitis. Upon acute inflammation, gingival fibroblasts release cytokines to recruit immune cells to counter environmental stimuli. The intricate regulation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, such as NF-κB, is necessary to maintain periodontal homeostasis. Nonetheless, how inflammation is resolved has not yet been elucidated. In this study, 22 subtypes of taste receptor family 2 (TAS2Rs), as well as the downstream machineries of Gα-gustducin and phospholipase C-β2 (PLCβ2), were identified in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Various bitter agonists could induce an intensive cytosolic Ca²⁺ response in HGFs. More importantly, TAS2R16 was expressed at a relatively high level, and its agonist, salicin, showed robust Ca²⁺ evocative effects in HGFs. Activation of TAS2R16 signaling by salicin inhibited the release of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines, at least in part, by repressing LPS-induced intracellular cAMP elevation and NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation in HGFs. These findings indicate that TAS2Rs activation in HGFs may mediate endogenous pro-inflammation resolution by antagonizing NF-κB signaling, providing a novel paradigm and treatment target for the better management of periodontitis.

Berberine Protects against Neurological Impairments and Blood-Brain Barrier Injury in Mouse Model of Intracerebral Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Elevation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC1α) signaling can suppress intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH)-induced neurological impairments. As an isoquinoline alkaloid, Berberine exerts neuroprotective effects in neurological disease models with activated AMPK/PGC1α signaling.

AIM

We aim to study the effect of Berberine on ICH-induced brain injury and explore the potential molecular mechanism.

METHODS

ICH model was established in mice through intracerebral injection of autologous whole blood, followed by treatment with Berberine. Neurological impairments were assessed by the modified neurological severity score and behavioral assays. Brain edema and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity were assessed by water content in the brain, amount of extravasated Evans blue, and BBB tight junction components. Neuroinflammatory responses were assessed by inflammatory cytokine levels. AMPK/PGC1α signaling was examined by AMPK mRNA expression and phosphorylated AMPK and PGC1α protein levels.

RESULTS

Berberine (200 mg/kg) attenuated ICH-induced neurological deficits, motor and cognitive impairment, and BBB disruption. Berberine also suppressed ICH-induced inflammatory responses indicated by reduced production of inflammatory cytokines. Finally, Berberine drastically elevated AMPK/PGC1α signaling in the hemisphere of ICH mice.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that Berberine plays an important neuroprotective role against ICH-induced neurological impairments and BBB injury, probably by inhibition of inflammation and activation of AMPK/PGC1α signaling.

The Analgesic Properties of Corydalis yanhusuo

Corydalis yanhusuo extract (YHS) has been used for centuries across Asia for pain relief. The extract is made up of more than 160 compounds and has been identified as alkaloids, organic acids, volatile oils, amino acids, alcohols, and sugars. However, the most crucial biological active constituents of YHS are alkaloids; more than 80 have been isolated and identified. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the phytochemical and pharmacological effects of these alkaloids that have significant ties to analgesia.

Biological Response Profiling Reveals the Functional Differences of Main Alkaloids in Rhizoma Coptidis

Rhizoma Coptidis (RC) is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine. Although modern research has found that some alkaloids from RC are the pharmacologically active constituents, the differences in their biological effects are not completely clear. This study analyzed the differences in the typical alkaloids in RC at a systematic level and provided comprehensive information on the pharmaceutical mechanisms of the different alkaloids. The ethanol RC extract (RCE) was characterized using HPLC assay. HepG2, 3T3-L1, and RAW264.7 cells were used to detect the cytotoxicity of alkaloids. Transcriptome analyses were performed to elucidate the cellular pathways affected by RCE and alkaloids. HPLC analysis revealed that the typical alkaloids of RCE were berberine, coptisine, and palmatine. Coptisine and berberine displayed a stronger inhibitory effect on cell proliferation than palmatine. The overlapping ratios of differentially expressed genes between RCE and berberine, coptisine, and palmatine were 70.8%, 52.6%, and 42.1%, respectively. Pathway clustering analysis indicated that berberine and coptisine possessed a certain similarity to RCE, and both compounds affected the cell cycle pathway; moreover, some pathways were uniquely enriched by berberine or coptisine. Berberine and coptisine had different regulatory effects on genes involved in lipid metabolism. These results provide comprehensive information on the pharmaceutical mechanisms of the different RC alkaloids and insights into their better combinatory use for the treatment of diseases.

A Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Danshen Baibixiao Ameliorates Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Inflammation in Mice

Background: Danshen Baibixiao (DB) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula, which has been used to treat psoriasis for decades. Although DB shows good efficacy in clinical practice, the pharmacological effects and underlying mechanisms of DB remain elusive. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-psoriatic effects of DB and explore its underlying mechanisms in an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like mouse model. Materials and methods: DB was orally administered on IMQ-induced psoriatic mice. Psoriasis area severity index (PASI) was used to evaluate the severity of the inflammation in skin, and histological changes were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining. Levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-23, IL-6, IL-1β and IL-22 in serum were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). mRNA expressions of IL-17A, IL-23, IL-6 and IL-22 were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Expression levels of proteins related to NF-κB, STAT3 and MAPKs signaling pathways were measured by western blotting (WB). Results: DB significantly ameliorated the psoriatic symptoms in IMQ-induced mice. The serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-23, IL-6, IL-1β and IL-22) were decreased, and mRNA expressions of IL-17A, IL-23, IL-6 and IL-22 in skin tissues were down-regulated. Moreover, WB analysis indicated that DB inhibited the activation of NF-κB, STAT3 and MAPKs signaling pathways. Conclusion: This study confirms the anti-psoriatic activity of DB in IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mice. The possible mechanism may relate to the activities of regulating the IL-23/TH-17 axis and suppressing the activation of NF-κB, STAT3 and MAPKs signaling pathways.

Natural Products as Potential Lead Compounds for Drug Discovery Against SARS-CoV-2

For the past 2 years, the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 infection has become a world pandemic, ruining the lives and economies of several nations in the world. This has scaled up research on the virus and the resulting infection with the goal of developing new vaccines and therapies. Natural products are known to be a rich source of lead compounds for drug discovery, including against infectious diseases caused by microbes (viruses, bacteria and fungi). In this review article, we conducted a literature survey aimed at identifying natural products with inhibitory concentrations against the coronaviruses or their target proteins, which lie below 10 µM. This led to the identification of 42 compounds belonging to the alkaloid, flavonoid, terpenoid, phenolic, xanthone and saponin classes. The cut off concentration of 10 µM was to limit the study to the most potent chemical entities, which could be developed into therapies against the viral infection to make a contribution towards limiting the spread of the disease.

Tree Turmeric: A Super Food and Contemporary Nutraceutical of 21st Century - A Laconic Review

Since ancient times the medicinal plants have been under use as food and potential therapeutic agent for the management of overall health and the use of all plant parts including fruits, seeds, is well reported in the literature. One such plant is Berberis aristata which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and various phytochemicals amongst which Berberine is the principal bioactive compound with a range of reported health benefits, and some of the commercial formulations like Rasaut, Darvyadi Leha are being used for the treatments of jaundice, malaria, typhoid fever, inflammation, eye infection, diarrhea, wound healing, etc. The hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antitumor, anti-cancerous, properties are the recent additions to its functional importance. Berberine has significant bioactivities in the treatments of different diseases. Besides its remarkable applications, the berberine has low efficacy due to its low solubility in water, poor absorption, and low bioavailability. This problem can be solved by using some techniques like Nanotechnology which has been found to increase its solubility in water, bioavailability, and absorption and hence provide a better delivery system of berberine. This review illuminates the therapeutic applications of the plant Berberis aristata, scientific validation to its traditional uses, role of berberine in the treatment of various diseases through its different bioactivities, major flaws in berberine treatment, and the role of nanotechnology in minimizing those flaws and increasing its overall efficacy. Key teaching pointsPlant Berberis aristata has been used since ancient times for the treatment of various ailments like jaundice, hepatitis, fever, bleeding, inflammation, diarrhea, malaria, skin and eye infections, chronic rheumatism, and urinary disorders.Berberine is the major and most significant phytochemical among numerous phytochemicals present in plant Berberis aristata.Berberine has significantly shown many potent effect against emerging diseases like cancer and diabetes. Besides that, it has also shown antioxidant, anti-inflamation, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and anti-gastrointestinal disorder properties.Berberine can be very effective in overcoming the demerits of berberine treatment like poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, and poor absorption in the human body in the treatment of various diseases.

The modulation of SIRT1 and SIRT3 by natural compounds as a therapeutic target in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: A review

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent antitumor agent with a broad spectrum of activity; however, irreversible cardiotoxicity resulting from DOX treatment is a major issue that limits its therapeutic use. Sirtuins (SIRTs) play an essential role in several physiological and pathological processes including oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. It has been reported that SIRT1 and SIRT3 can act as a protective molecular against DOX-induced myocardial injury through targeting numerous signaling pathways. Several natural compounds (NCs), such as resveratrol, sesamin, and berberine, with antioxidative, anti-inflammation, and antiapoptotic effects were evaluated for their potential to suppress the cardiotoxicity induced by DOX via targeting SIRT1 and SIRT3. Numerous NCs exerted their therapeutic effects on DOX-mediated cardiac damage via targeting different signaling pathways, including SIRT1/LKB1/AMPK, SIRT1/PGC-1α, SIRT1/NLRP3, and SIRT3/FoxO. SIRT3 also ameliorates cardiotoxicity by enhancing mitochondrial fusion.

Pre- and Post-partum Berberine Supplementation in Dairy Goats as a Novel Strategy to Mitigate Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

As in dairy cattle, goats during the transition period face risk factors, in particular negative energy balance (NEB), inflammation, and impairment of the antioxidant response. The current study determined the effects of pre- and post-partum berberine (BBR) supplementation on antioxidant status and inflammation response during the transition period in dairy goats. Twenty-four primiparous Saanen goats were randomly divided into four groups: control (CON, without BBR) and supplemented with 1 g/day BBR (BBR1), 2 g/day BBR (BBR2), or 4 g/day BBR (BBR4). The blood samples were collected weekly from 21 days pre-partum to 21 days post-partum. Compared with CON, supplementation with either BBR2 or BBR4 decreased (P ≤ 0.05) the levels of plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) at kidding and thereafter an increased (P ≤ 0.05) the plasma levels of glucose and insulin. Following BBR ingestion, blood antioxidant status elevated throughout the transition period, so that total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activity were increased (P ≤ 0.05) and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased (P ≤ 0.05). Likewise, paraoxonase (PON) was reduced (P ≤ 0.05) in goats fed BBR2 and BBR4. The levels of haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, and bilirubin were reduced (P ≤ 0.05) by BBR2 and BBR4 immediately before kidding and thereafter. The results demonstrated that supplementation of either 2 or 4 g/day BBR enhanced antioxidant capacity and immune function of transition goats and improved post-partum performance showing its beneficial effect to mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation during the transition period in dairy goats.

Synergetic protective effect of berberine and ginsenoside Rb1 against tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced inflammation in adipocytes

Obesity significantly impacts living a normal life by increasing morbidity. Additionally, obesity has been shown to be closely associated with severe inflammation in adipocytes. It is widely reported that berberine (BBR) has an anti-inflammatory effect and can reduce glucose and lipid accumulation, whereas ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) has been shown to have a significant inhibitory effect on insulin resistance and lipid peroxidation. In this study, we aimed to explore the synergetic effect of BBR and Rb1 on tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-treated adipocytes and the mechanisms underlying it. We found that TNF-α reduced cell viability, facilitated the production of inflammatory factors, induced adipogenesis, activated the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, and increased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, CCAAT enhancer-binding protein alpha, and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 c in adipocytes. However, these effects were significantly alleviated by BBR or Rb1. Additionally, a synergetic effect was observed when BBR and Rb1 were used in combination. The effects of BBR in combination with Rb1 on cell proliferation, inflammation, adipogenesis, and the NF-κB pathway in TNF-α-treated adipocytes were significantly abolished by receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand, which is an activator of the NF-κB pathway. Collectively, the results revealed that BBR and Rb1 have a synergetic protective effect against TNF-α-induced inflammation in adipocytes. The mechanism underlying this synergetic effect was found to be inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Berberine and Its Main Metabolite Berberrubine Inhibit Platelet Activation Through Suppressing the Class I PI3Kβ/Rasa3/Rap1 Pathway

Background: Berberine (BBR), a natural product, was reported to inhibit platelet aggregation; however, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the effects and mechanisms of BBR in inhibiting platelet activation and thrombus formation. Methods: Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot were used to determine the inhibitory effects and mechanisms of BBR and its main metabolite berberrubine (M2) on platelet activation in vitro and ex vivo. Purified integrin αIIbβ3, class I PI3K kit, and molecular docking were used to identify the possible targets of BBR and M2. A carrageenan-induced mouse thrombosis model was used to evaluate the effects of BBR on thrombus formation in vivo. Results: In vitro, BBR and M2 significantly inhibited ADP-induced integrin αIIbβ3 activation, reduced the level of P-selectin on the platelet membrane, and suppressed the binding of fibrinogen to the platelets. In this process, BBR and M2 greatly suppressed the PI3K/Akt pathway and inhibited Rasa3 membrane translocation and Rap1 activation. Furthermore, BBR and M2 selectively inhibited class I PI3Kβ, perhaps through binding to its active site. The activities of BBR were stronger than those of M2. After oral administration, BBR significantly inhibited the PI3K/Akt pathway and Rap1 activation and suppressed ADP-induced platelet activation and carrageenan-induced thrombosis in mice without prolonging bleeding time. Conclusions: We reveal for the first time the possible targets and mechanisms of BBR and M2 in inhibiting platelet activation. Our research may support the future clinical application of BBR as an antiplatelet drug in the prevention or treatment of thrombotic diseases.

Alleviation Effects of GQD, a Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula, on Diabetes Rats Linked to Modulation of the Gut Microbiome

Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) is a Chinese herbal medicine that has been reported to significantly decrease blood glucose levels, which is suggested to be related to interactions with the gut microbiota. However, the protective effect of GQD on intestinal barrier function with regard to its influence on the gut microbiota has not been explored to date. In this study, we investigated the role of the gut microbiota in mediating the hypoglycemic mechanism of GQD in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin after 4 weeks of high-fat diet feeding. The T2DM rats were randomly allocated to receive GQD, metformin (Met), or saline for 12 consecutive weeks, and changes in metabolic parameters, intestinal barrier function, and inflammation were investigated. Gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing from fecal samples, and statistical analyses were performed to correlate microbiota composition with phenotypes of the T2DM rats. GQD administration decreased the levels of blood glucose and inflammatory cytokines, and increased the levels of tight junction proteins. Besides, GQD had a protective effect on islet function, restoring intestinal permeability, and inhibiting inflammation, as evidenced by increases in the levels of serum C-peptide, occludin, and claudin-1 in the colon, and also improved the expression of serum inflammatory factors. In addition, GQD regulated the structure of the gut microbiota by increasing the proportions of short-chain fatty acids-producing and anti-inflammatory bacteria, and decreasing the proportions of conditioned pathogenic bacteria associated with the diabetic phenotype. Overall, these findings suggest that GQD could ameliorate hyperglycemia and protect islet function by regulating the structure of the gut microbiota, thereby restoring intestinal permeability and inhibiting inflammation in T2DM rats. Our study thus suggests that the hypoglycemic mechanism of GQD is mediated by its modulation of the gut microbiota.

Inhibitory Role of Berberine, an Isoquinoline Alkaloid, on NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation for the Treatment of Inflammatory Diseases

The pyrin domain-containing multiprotein complex NLRP3 inflammasome, consisting of the NLRP3 protein, ASC adaptor, and procaspase-1, plays a vital role in the pathophysiology of several inflammatory disorders, including neurological and metabolic disorders, chronic inflammatory diseases, and cancer. Several phytochemicals act as promising anti-inflammatory agents and are usually regarded to have potential applications as complementary or alternative therapeutic agents against chronic inflammatory disorders. Various in vitro and in vivo studies have reported the anti-inflammatory role of berberine (BRB), an organic heteropentacyclic phytochemical and natural isoquinoline, in inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent inflammation against many disorders. This review summarizes the mechanism and regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and its involvement in inflammatory diseases, and discusses the current scientific evidence on the repressive role of BRB on NLRP3 inflammasome pathways along with the possible mechanism(s) and their potential in counteracting various inflammatory diseases.

Effect of Huanglian Decoction on the Intestinal Microbiome in Stress Ulcer (SU) Mice

Background

Stress ulcer (SU) is a serious gastrointestinal mucosal lesion under acute stress. Huanglian decoction is a famous traditional Chinese medicine prescription, which has been used to treat digestive system diseases for thousands of years. Many clinical cases have proved that Huanglian decoction has a good effect on SU. Some studies have shown that the intestinal bacteria will be changed accordingly when the gastrointestinal mucosa is damaged. However, there are few published reports on the effect of the intestinal microbiome with SU mice that were treated by Huanglian decoction. In this study, we investigated the effect of the fecal microbiome in mice with SU by the 16S rDNA sequencing technology.

Methods

Male KM mice were induced by cold-restraint stress except for the normal control group and then treated by Huanglian decoction (Group HD) and Esomeprazole magnesium solution (Group ES) separately for 7 days. 16S rDNA sequencing technology analysis was applied to evaluate the changes of bacterial flora in mice feces. And, histopathological methods and molecular biological detection methods were also performed.

Results

Huanglian decoction could help to repair the gastric mucosal injury and regulate the relative content of TNF-α and IL-1β. Moreover, Huanglian decoction could increase the relative abundance of intestinal probiotics in the intestine of mice with SU, especially in Verrucomicrobiae and Akkermansia.

Conclusions

Huanglian decoction might effectively promote the repair of gastrointestinal mucosal injury and regulate the number and species of intestinal bacteria to maintain the stability of gastrointestinal microecology.

Berberine for bone regeneration: Therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Berberine is a quaternary ammonium isoquinoline alkaloid, mainly extracted from plants berberaceae, papaveraceae, ranunculaceae and rutaceae such as coptis chinensis Franch, Phellodendron chinense, and berberis pruinosa. The plants are extensively used in traditional medicine for treating infection, diabetes, arrhythmia, tumor, osteoporosis et al. Pharmacological studies showed berberine has effects of anti-inflammation, anti-tumor, lower blood lipid, lower blood glucose, anti-osteoporosis, anti-osteoarthritis et al. AIM OF THE STUDY: This review aims to summarize the application of natural herbs that contain berberine, the further use and development of berberine, the effects as well as mechanism of berberine on osteoblasts and osteoclasts, the recent advances of in vivo studies, in order to provide a scientific basis for its traditional uses and to prospect of the potential applications of berberine in clinics.

METHOD

The research was achieved by retrieving from the online electronic database, including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI). Patents, doctoral dissertations and master dissertations are also searched.

RESULTS

Berberine has a long history of medicinal use to treat various diseases including bone disease in China. Recent studies have defined its function in promoting bone regeneration and great potential in developing new drugs. But the systemic mechanism of berberine on bone regeneration still needs more research to clarify.

CONCLUSION

This review has systematically summarized the application, pharmacological effects, mechanism as well as in vivo studies of berberine and herbs which contain berberine. Berberine has a definite effect in promoting the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts as well as inhibiting the production of osteoclasts to promote bone regeneration. However, the present studies about the system mechanisms and pharmacological activity of berberine were incomplete. Applying berberine for new drug development remains an exciting and promising alternative to bone regeneration engineering, with broad potential for therapeutic and clinical practice.

9-O-Terpenyl-Substituted Berberrubine Derivatives Suppress Tumor Migration and Increase Anti-Human Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Activity

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers and the leading cause of death in humans worldwide. Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases and is often diagnosed at a late stage. Among patients with NSCLC, 50% die within 1 year after diagnosis. Even with clinical intervention, the 5-year survival rate is only approximately 20%. Therefore, the development of an advanced therapeutic strategy or novel agent is urgently required for treating NSCLC. Berberine exerts therapeutic activity toward NSCLC; therefore, its activity as an antitumor agent needs to be explored further. In this study, three terpenylated-bromide derivatives of berberrubine were synthesized and their anti-NSCLC activities were evaluated. Each derivative had higher anti-NSCLCs activity than berberrubine and berberine. Among them, 9-O-gernylberberrubine bromide (B4) and 9-O-farnesylberberrubine bromide (B5) showed greater growth inhibition, cell-cycle regulation, in vitro tumorigenesis suppression, and tumor migration reduction. In addition, some degree of apoptosis and autophagic flux blocking was noted in the cells under B4 and B5 treatments. Our study demonstrates that the berberrubine derivatives, B4 and B5, exhibit impressive anti-NSCLC activities and have potential for use as chemotherapeutic agents against NSCLC.

Berberine ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by decreasing the liver lipid content via reversing the abnormal expression of MTTP and LDLR

The global incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing. The present study explored the effect and mechanism of berberine (BBR) on NAFLD in rats. Thirty-five Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the control and NAFLD groups, which were fed a normal diet or high-fat diet, respectively, for 8 weeks. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed on liver tissues and establishment of the NAFLD model was confirmed by microscopy. NAFLD rats were subsequently randomly subdivided and treated with saline or BBR for 8 weeks. The liver wet weight of rats in each group was measured, the liver tissue structure was observed by microscopy, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), fasting blood glucose (FBG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were detected using a semi-automatic biochemical detector. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting were performed to determine the mRNA and protein expression levels of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP), apolipoprotein B and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). Compared with the control group, the liver wet weight of the NAFLD rats was higher; the liver showed obvious fatty degeneration and liver TG levels increased significantly, as did serum levels of ALT, AST, TC, TG, FBG, HDL and LDL, while expression of MTTP and LDLR significantly decreased. Compared with the saline-treated NAFLD rats, the BBR-treated rats had reduced liver wet weight, improved liver steatosis and a significant decrease in liver TG levels, while ALT, AST, TC, TG, and LDL serum levels significantly decreased and MTTP levels were significantly upregulated. In conclusion, BBR treatment ameliorated the fatty liver induced by a high-fat diet in rats. Furthermore, BBR reversed the abnormal expression of MTTP and LDLR in rats with high-fat diet induced-NAFLD. The present findings suggest that fatty liver could be improved by BBR administration, via reversing the abnormal expression of MTTP and LDLR and inhibiting lipid synthesis.

Protective effects of berberine on senile osteoporosis in mice

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of osteoporosis is positively correlated with age. Berberine has been reported to treat osteoporosis due to its beneficial actions on bone formation. However, the direct effects of berberine on senile osteoporosis remain unclear. The present study investigated the protective effects of berberine on senile osteoporosis in mice and preliminarily evaluated its potential mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

20-month-old male C57BL/6 J mice were used as senile osteoporosis mouse model and treated with strontium ranelate (SR) or berberine or solvent control by daily gavage for 2 months. Thereafter, bone mass and microstructure parameters were assessed. Histological staining was performed to identify the osteogenic, adipogenic and osteoclastic activity of bone tissue. Moreover, role of cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway in berberine affecting bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) differentiation was clarified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blot analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed that the SR-treated group displayed a high trabecular bone mass phenotype. For mice administrated with berberine, cancellous bone mass was upregulated in a dose-dependent manner, as indicated by gradually increased bone mass, trabecular bone volume fraction and trabecular number. Furthermore, berberine promotes osteogenic and inhibits adipogenic differentiation of BMSCs via cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling. Also, bone resorption effect becomes more obvious with increasing dose of berberine in vitro.

CONCLUSION

The present results suggest that berberine exerts potent bone protective effects by promoting bone formation, inhibiting marrow fat accumulation and bone resorption. This effect may be achieved through cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway.

Berberine Attenuates MPP+-Induced Neuronal Injury by Regulating LINC00943/miR-142-5p/KPNA4/NF-κB Pathway in SK-N-SH Cells

Berberine plays a neuro-protective role in neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD). Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in PD pathogenesis. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether LINC00943 was involved in the role of berberine in PD. 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) or 1-methyl-4-phenyl pyridine (MPP⁺) were used to construct PD mouse and cell models, respectively. Cell proliferation was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (Edu) assays. Inflammation and cell apoptosis were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry, respectively. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was employed to test the expression of LINC00943, microRNA (miR)-142-5p, and karyopherin subunit alpha 4 (KPNA4) mRNA. The protein levels of NF-κB pathway-related markers and KPNA4 were measured by western blot. Oxidative stress level was assessed by corresponding kits. The interaction between miR-142-5p and LINC00943 or KPNA4 was determined via dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Berberine inhibited MPP⁺-induced injury in SK-N-SH cells by promoting cell proliferation and suppressing inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative injury. LINC00943 and KPNA4 were upregulated and miR-142-5p was downregulated in PD mouse and cell models. LINC00943 (or KPNA4) overexpression or miR-142-5p inhibition abated the neuro-protective role of berberine in PD cell model. Moreover, miR-142-5p was a target of LINC00943, and KPNA4 could specially bind to miR-142-5p. Additionally, berberine inhibited NF-κB pathway by regulating LINC00943/miR-142-5p/KPNA4 axis. Berberine protected SK-N-SH cell from MPP⁺-induced neuronal damage via regulating LINC00943/miR-142-5p/KPNA4/NF-κB pathway, highlighting novel evidence for the neuro-protective role of berberine in PD.

Brij-functionalized chitosan nanocarrier system enhances the intestinal permeability of P-glycoprotein substrate-like drugs

The highly expressed P-glycoprotein (Pgp) in the intestine plays a key role in preventing drugs across the intestinal epithelium, which linked by tight junctions (TJs). Thus increasing the oral bioavailability of Pgp substrate-like drugs (PSLDs) remains a great challenge. Herein, we construct a nanocarrier system derived from Brij-grafted-chitosan (BC) to enhance the oral bioavailability and therapeutic effect of berberine (BBR, a typical PLSD) against diabetic kidney disease. The developed BC nanoparticles (BC-NPs) are demonstrated to improve the intestinal permeability of BBR via transiently and reversibly modulating the intercellular TJs (paracellular pathway) and Pgp-mediated drug efflux (transcellular pathway). As compared to free BBR and chitosan nanoparticles, the BC-NPs enhanced the relative oral bioavailability of BBR in rats (4.4- and 2.7-fold, respectively), and the therapeutic potency of BBR in renal function and histopathology. In summary, such strategy may provide an effective nanocarrier system for oral delivery of BBR and PSLDs.

Gene expression analysis in NSAID-induced rat small intestinal disease model with the intervention of berberine by the liquid chip technology

Objective

Investigate the effect and mechanism of berberine on the small intestinal mucosa of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) related small intestinal injury.

Materials and methods

Twenty-four SD rats were randomly divided into control group, model group and intervention group. The model group and intervention group were treated with diclofenac (7.5 mg/kg·d, 2/d), a total of 4 days tube feeding, and the intervention group was treated with 50 mg/kg·d intragastric administration of berberine after 2 days. The control group was treated with 7.5 mg/kg·d, 2/d 0.9% saline tube feeding. Then we screened differential expression of colonic mucosal gene by the liquid chip technology.

Results

Compared with the control group, macroscopic and histology score of the model group increased significantly (P < 0.05), HTR4, HTR1a, F2RL3, CALCA, NPY, CRHR2, IL1b, P2RX3, TPH1, HMOX1, TRPV1, VIP, F2RL1, SLC6A4, TFF2, AQP8 content were significantly increased (P < 0.05), NOS1 content decreased significantly (P < 0.05); Compared with the model group, macroscopic and histology score of the intervention group improved significantly (P < 0.05), and HTR4, F2RL3, NPY, CRHR2, IL1b, VIP, AQP8 content were significantly lower (P < 0.05), NOS1 content increased significantly (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Berberine has a protective effect on NSAID-associated small intestinal injury, the mechanism may be that berberine decreases the expression of intestinal mucosa HTR4, F2RL3, NPY, CRHR2, IL1b, VIP, AQP8, and increases the expression of NOS1, that to reduce intestinal permeability and protect intestinal mucosal barrier.

Supramolecular Nanoplatform Based on Mesoporous Silica Nanocarriers and Pillararene Nanogates for Fungus Control

Synthetic fungicides have been widely used to protect crops from fungal diseases. However, excessive use of synthetic fungicides leads to the generation of fungicide resistance in fungal pathogens. Recently, smart cargo delivery systems have been introduced for the construction of a pesticide delivery nanoplatform, benefiting from their controlled release performance. Herein, a fungal pathogen microenvironment-responsive supramolecular fungicide nanoplatform has been designed and constructed, using quaternary ammonium salt (Q)-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-Q NPs) as nanocarriers loaded with berberine hydrochloride (BH) and carboxylatopillar[5]arene (CP[5]A) as nanogates to form BH-loaded CP[5]A@MSN-Q NPs for effective inhibition of Botrytis cinerea. CP[5]A as nanogates can endow the fungicide nanoplatform with pH stimuli-responsive release features for the control of fungicide release. The loaded BH, as a natural plant fungicide, provides an ecofriendly alternative to synthetic fungicides for controlling B. cinerea. Interestingly, we use oxalic acid (OA) secreted by B. cinerea as a trigger so that BH can be released from the fungicide nanoplatform on demand under pathogen microenvironments for controlling B. cinerea. The experimental results indicate that the fabricated fungicide nanoplatform could effectively inhibit the mycelial growth and spore germination, providing a new way for the management of B. cinerea in actual application.

Fluorescent Indolo[3,2-a]phenazines against Toxoplasma gondii: Concise Synthesis by Gold-Catalyzed Cycloisomerization with 1,2-Silyl Migration and ipso-Iodination Suzuki Sequence

A gold‐catalyzed cycloisomerization of 2‐indolyl‐3‐[(trimethylsilyl)ethynyl)]quinoxalines with concomitant 1,2‐silyl shift forms 6‐(trimethylsilyl)indolo[3,2‐a]phenazines in moderate to excellent yield. These silylated heterocycles are readily transformed into 6‐aryl‐indolo[3,2‐a]phenazines in moderate to good yield by one‐pot ipso‐iodination Suzuki coupling. The title compounds represent a novel type of tunable luminophore. Structure‐property relationships for 6‐aryl‐indolo[3,2‐a]phenazines obtained from Hammett correlations with σ_p+ substituent parameters indicate that emission maxima, Stokes shifts, and fluorescence quantum yields can be fine‐tuned by the remote para‐aryl substituent. Furthermore, indolo[3,2‐a]phenazines were found to exhibit interesting activities against medically relevant pathogens such as the Apicomplexa parasite Toxoplasma gondii with an IC₅₀ of up to 0.67±0.13 μM. Thus, these compounds are promising candidates for novel anti‐parasitic therapies.

Berberine-Albumin Nanoparticles: Preparation, Thermodynamic Study and Evaluation Their Protective Effects Against Oxidative Stress in Primary Neuronal Cells as a Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Berberine has shown an outstanding antioxidant activity, however the low bioavailability limits its applications in pharmaceutical platforms. Therefore, in this paper, after fabrication of the berberine-HSA nanoparticles by desolvation method, they were well characterized by TEM, SEM, DLS, and FTIR techniques. Afterwards the interaction of HSA and the berberine was evaluated by molecular docking analysis. Finally, the antioxidant activity of the berberine-HSA nanoparticles against H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in cultured neurons as a model of AD was evaluated by cellular assays. The results showed that the prepared berberine-HSA nanoparticles have a spherical-shaped morphology with a size of around 100 nm and zeta potential value of -31.84 mV. The solubility value of nanoparticles was calculated to be 40.27%, with a berberine loading of 19.37%, berberine entrapment efficiency of 70.34%, and nanoparticles yield of 88.91%. Also, it was shown that the berberine is not significantly released from HSA nanoparticles within 24 hours. Afterwards, molecular docking investigation revealed that berberine spontaneously interacts with HSA through electrostatic interaction. Finally, cellular assays disclosed that the pretreatment of neuronal cultures with berberine-HSA nanoparticles decreased the H₂O₂-stimulated cytotoxicity and relevant morphological changes and enhanced the CAT activity. In conclusion, it can be indicated that the nanoformulation of the berberine can be used as a promising platform for inhibition of oxidative damage-induced Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Herbal Active Ingredients: Potential for the Prevention and Treatment of Acute Lung Injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening clinical syndrome with high morbidity and mortality. The main pathological features of ALI are increased alveolar-capillary membrane permeability, edema, uncontrolled migration of neutrophils to the lungs, and diffuse alveolar damage, resulting in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Glucocorticoids, aspirin, and other anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used to treat ALI. Respiratory supports, such as a ventilator, are used to alleviate hypoxemia. Many treatment methods are available, but they cannot significantly ameliorate the quality of life of patients with ALI and reduce mortality rates. Herbal active ingredients, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids, and quinonoids, exhibit advantages for ALI prevention and treatment, but the underlying mechanism needs further study. This paper summarizes the role of herbal active ingredients in anti-ALI therapy and progresses in the understanding of their mechanisms. The work also provides some references and insights for the discovery and development of novel drugs for ALI prevention and treatment.

Exploring the Mechanism of Berberine Intervention in Ulcerative Colitis from the Perspective of Inflammation and Immunity Based on Systemic Pharmacology

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic nonspecific inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum. Recent studies found that berberine had effects on inflammatory diseases and immune diseases.

Methods

The PharmMapper database was used to predict the berberine potential target and GeneCards database and OMIM database were utilized to collect UC genes. The Cytoscape software was used to construct and analyze the networks and DAVID was utilized to perform enrichment analysis. Then, animal experiments were performed to validate the prediction results. The experimental rats were randomly divided into normal group (control group), model group, and berberine group. The general condition, body weight, gross morphology of colon tissue, and colonic mucosal damage index (CMDI) score were observed. The pathological changes of colon tissue were observed by H&E staining. The levels of serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-4 were detected by ELISA. The expressions of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-4 protein in colon tissue were detected by immunohistochemistry.

Results

A total of 211 Berberine's potential targets and 210 UC genes were obtained. The enrichment analysis showed that berberine may regulate inflammation, inflammatory cytokines, and their mediated inflammation signal pathways such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, TNF, T cell receptor, Toll-like receptor, and JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Compared with the model group, the body mass of rats in the berberine group was significantly increased (P < 0.05); the general morphology and pathological changes of colon tissue were significantly improved; CMDI score, serum and colon tissue IL-1β, TNF-α content, and protein expression were decreased significantly (P < 0.05); and IL-4 content and protein expression increased significantly (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Berberine can interfere with UC through related biological processes and signal pathways related to inflammation and immunity. In-depth exploration of the mechanism of berberine in the treatment of UC will provide a basis for clinical application.

Berberine in Human Oncogenic Herpesvirus Infections and Their Linked Cancers

Human herpesviruses are known to induce a broad spectrum of diseases, ranging from common cold sores to cancer, and infections with some types of these viruses, known as human oncogenic herpesviruses (HOHVs), can cause cancer. Challenges with viral latency, recurrent infections, and drug resistance have generated the need for finding new drugs with the ability to overcome these barriers. Berberine (BBR), a naturally occurring alkaloid, is known for its multiple biological activities, including antiviral and anticancer effects. This paper comprehensively compiles all studies that have featured anti-HOHV properties of BBR along with promising preventive effects against the associated cancers. The mechanisms and pathways induced by BBR via targeting the herpesvirus life cycle and the pathogenesis of the linked malignancies are reviewed. Approaches to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of BBR and its use in clinical practice as an anti-herpesvirus drug are also discussed.

The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Zhibaidihuang Decoction on Recurrent Oral Ulcer with Sirt1 as the Key Regulatory Target

The syndrome of ROU is generally manifested as obvious pain, redness, and swelling of local ulceration area, accompanied by flushed face, red eyes, sore throat, and swollen gums. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) doctors believe that "yin deficiency" is one causative factor of ROU. Zhibaidihuang decoction (ZBDHD) is a prescriptively developed receipt, where Anemarrhena asphodeloides and Phellodendri amurensis Cortex are added in the original Liuweidihuang decoction. It is generally used for "yin deficiency" treatment. It can effectively reduce the recurrence of oral ulcers and release the severity of the disease. However, the mechanism of this activity remains to be elucidated. In this study, we found that ZBDHD has a certain therapeutic effect on the pathological changes of oral mucosa. Furthermore, the results of serum metabolomics showed ZBDHD influenced the synthesis and metabolism of certain fatty acids. The results of western blot, immunochemical, and immunofluorescence staining indicate that ZBDHD could increase the expression of Sirt1 and Foxp3 and suppress the expression and acetylation of NF-κB in oral mucosa cells. By screening active ingredients in ZBDHD, we found berberine, as well as other compounds, presenting high fitness of the Sirt1 reactive centre. Therefore, it is possible that ZBDHD can regulate the Sirt1-NF-κB pathway to improve fatty acids metabolism in the body, thereby achieving the effect of treating ROU.