Berberine hydrochloride: anticancer activity and nanoparticulate delivery system

Novel drug delivery systems of Chinese medicine for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an idiopathic intestinal inflammatory disease that comprises ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). IBD involves the ileum, rectum, and colon, and common clinical manifestations of IBD are diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even bloody stools. Currently, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, and immunosuppressive agents are used for the treatment of IBD, while their clinical application is severely limited due to unwanted side effects. Chinese medicine (CM) is appealing more and more attention and investigation for the treatment of IBD owing to the potent anti-inflammation pharmacological efficacy and high acceptance by patients. In recent years, novel drug delivery systems are introduced apace to encapsulate CM and many CM-derived active constituents in order to improve solubility, stability and targeting ability. In this review, advanced drug delivery systems developed in the past and present to deliver CM for the treatment of IBD are summarized and future directions are discussed.

Berberine-loaded Janus gold mesoporous silica nanocarriers for chemo/radio/photothermal therapy of liver cancer and radiation-induced injury inhibition

Background: The combination of chemotherapy with radiotherapy serves as a common therapeutic strategy in clinics. However, it is unsatisfactory due to its poor therapeutic efficiency and severe side-effects originating from chemotherapy-exerted systemic toxicity as well as radiation-induced injury. Purpose: Hence, Berberine (Ber), an isoquinolin alkaloid with low toxicity and protective effects against radiotherapy, was used as a novel chemotherapeutic agent for chemo-radiotherapy of liver cancer. Patients and methods: We preloaded Ber into folic acid targeting Janus gold mesoporous silica nanocarriers (FA-JGMSNs) for overcoming the poor bioavailability of Ber. Furthermore, FA-JGMSNs were not only employed as radiosensitizers for expanding radiotherapeutic effect, but also used as photothermal agents for supplementing chemo-radiotherapeutic effect by local photothermal therapy. Results: In vitro and in vivo experiemtal results demonstrated the highly efficient anti-tumor effect, good biosafety as well as the effective protection of normal tissue of this nanoplatform. Conclusion: Based on its superb performance, we believe our work provided a feasible strategy for triple-therapies of liver cancer.

Two new alkaloids from the tubers of Corydalis ambigua subsp. amurensis and their anti-proliferative activity

Two new alkaloids, including one benzophenanthridine type, dehydroambiguanine A (1) and one isoquinoline type, ambiguanine J (2) together with four (3-6) known alkaloids were isolated from the n-butanol fraction of Corydalis ambigua subsp. amurensis. Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic methods including HR-ESIMS and NMR, and the absolute configuration of compound 1 was further confirmed by the quantum ECD calculations. In addition, all isolated alkaloids (1-6) were determined their anti-proliferative effects of on A549 and HCT 116 cell by colorimetric MTT assay. Among them, Compounds 1 and 4 exhibited anti-proliferative activity on HCT 116 cell line with the IC₅₀ value at 49.8 ± 4.79, and 89.2 ± 1.86 μM, respectively. Compounds 2 and 5 showed mild anti-proliferative activity against A549 cell with IC₅₀ values at 60.2 ± 10.7, and 89.2 ± 12.9 μM, respectively. Their preliminary structure-activity relationship was also discussed.

Dual-functionalised shellac nanocarriers give a super-boost of the antimicrobial action of berberine

We have developed highly efficient antimicrobial nanocarriers for berberine (BRB) based on shellac nanoparticles (NPs) which were surface-functionalised with a surface active polymer, Poloxamer 407 (P407), and the cationic surfactant octadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (ODTAB). These shellac nanocarriers were produced in a two-step process which involves: (i) a pH change from aqueous ammonium shellac solution using P407 as a steric stabilizer in the presence of berberine chloride, and (ii) addition of ODTAB to yield shellac nanocarriers of cationic surface. We determined the BRB encapsulation efficiency and release profiles from such nanocarriers. We explored the antimicrobial action of these nanocarriers at different stages of their preparation which allowed us gain better understanding how they work, fine tune their design and reveal the impact of the nanoparticle coatings on to its antimicrobial effect. The antimicrobial action of BRB loaded within such shellac NPs with cationic surface functionality was examined on three different microorganisms, C. reinhardtii, S. cerevisiae and E. coli and compared with the effect of free BRB as well as non-coated BRB-loaded nanocarriers at the same BRB concentrations. We found that the cationic surface coating of the shellac NPs strongly amplified the efficiency of the encapsulated BRB across all tested microorganisms. The effect was attributed to the increased attraction between the ODTAB-coated BRB-loaded NPs and the anionic surface of the cell walls which delivers locally high BRB concentration. This nanotechnological approach could lead to more effective antimicrobial and disinfecting agents, dental formulations for plaque control, wound dressings, antialgal/antibiofouling formulations and antifungal agents.

Natural Products Isolated from Oriental Medicinal Herbs Inactivate Zika Virus

Zika virus (ZIKV) has been associated with serious health conditions, and an intense search to discover different ways to prevent and treat ZIKV infection is underway. Berberine and emodin possess several pharmacological properties and have been shown to be particularly effective against the entry and replication of several viruses. We show that emodin and berberine trigger a virucidal effect on ZIKV. When the virus was exposed to 160 µM of berberine, a reduction of 77.6% in the infectivity was observed; when emodin was used (40 µM), this reduction was approximately 83.3%. Dynamic light scattering data showed that both compounds significantly reduce the hydrodynamic radius of virus particle in solution. We report here that berberine and emodin, two natural compounds, have strong virucidal effect in Zika virus.

Sanguinarine in Chelidonium majus induced antifeeding and larval lethality by suppressing food intake and digestive enzymes in Lymantria dispar

Our previous studies had identified that both crude extracts and total alkaloid from Chelidonium majus exerted a significant antifeeding and larval lethality on Lymantria dispar. Moreover, sanguinarine, chelidonine, berberine hydrochloride and coptisine were the main alkaloid in C. majus exerting toxicity to L. dispar. In this paper, we evaluated the insecticidal and antifeeding activities of each alkaloid on the 3rd instar L. dispar larvae by bioassay. Meanwhile, the effects of alkaloids from C. majus on the activities and mRNA levels of three main digestive enzymes in L. dispar larvae were investigated. The results indicated that sanguinarine possessed the strongest insecticidal activity with a LD₅₀ value of 4.963 μg/larva, and the coptisine showed little lethality to 3 rd instar L. dispar larvae among four alkaloids from C. majus. The insecticidal capacity of four alkaloids on 3rd instar L. dispar larvae was in the following decreasing order of sanguinarine > chelidonine > berberine hydrochloride > coptisine. Similarly, except coptisine, the other three alkaloids significantly reduced food intakes of third instar L. dispar larvae and suppressed activities of three digestive enzymes (α-amylase, lipase and total protease) simultaneously. Finally, qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the transcriptions of α-amylase, lipase and serine protease were affected by sanguinarine. Especially, at 48 h after treatment, the mRNA expressions of those digestive enzymes were significantly suppressed by sanguinarine. In conclusion, we suggested that alkaloids from C. majus induced antifeeding and larval lethality on L. dispar larvae by suppressing food intake and digestive enzymes in L. dispar. Our findings provide a novel insight into evaluating the antifeeding and insecticidal properties of C. majus, which afford a new strategy for integrated pest management programs as well.

The Degradation Products of Ascorbic Acid Inhibit Amyloid Fibrillation of Insulin and Destabilize Preformed Fibrils

Ascorbic acid (AsA) is an important antioxidant and enzyme cofactor in many biochemical processes. Most biological activities of AsA are closely related to its redox properties. Recent investigations have demonstrated that AsA is associated with amyloid-related diseases and can inhibit amyloid aggregation of polypeptides. In the present study, we determined the kinetics of AsA degradation and investigated the anti-amyloidogenic activities of AsA and its degradation products by utilizing insulin as a model polypeptide. The results showed that the half-life of AsA varied with the pH of the medium and the incubation temperature. The degradation products of AsA inhibited insulin fibrillation, with an activity positively correlated to the degree of AsA degradation. The degradation species, compared with intact AsA, also showed a stronger disruptive effect on mature amyloid fibrils and significantly decreased fibrillar cytotoxicity. Dehydroascorbic acid and diketogulonic acid, two key intermediates in AsA degradation, had similar anti-amyloidogenic activity toward the degradation species of AsA. The results of this work indicate that degradation of natural antioxidants must be considered when evaluating their anti-amyloidogenic effects. These insights into the action of AsA may also provide a novel route to understand its physiological/pharmacological roles in amyloid-related diseases.

Berberine down-regulates IL-8 expression through inhibition of the EGFR/MEK/ERK pathway in triple-negative breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression is associated with metastasis in a variety of cancer cells.

PURPOSE

Here, we investigated the regulatory mechanism of IL-8 expression as well as the pharmacological effect of berberine (BBR) on IL-8 expression in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells.

METHODS

The clinical value of IL-8 was analyzed by from a public database [Kaplan‑Meier plotter database. IL-8 mRNA and protein expression was analyzed by real-time PCR and ELISA, respectively. Cell invasion was analyzed by Boyden chamber assay. Tumor cell growth was analyzed by colony forming assay.

RESULTS

Clinically, we observed that breast cancer patients with highly expressed IL-8 are associated with poor outcomes in areas such as relapse-free, overall, and distant metastasis-free survival. We showed that IL-8 expression is higher in TNBC cells than in non-TNBC cells. In addition, the rates of cell invasion were significantly increased by IL-8 treatment. These IL-8 levels were decreased by EGFR (Neratinib and Afatinib) and MEK (PD98059) inhibitors in TNBC cells. Finally, we observed that BBR dramatically suppresses IL-8 expression. In addition, BBR also inhibited cell invasiveness and anchorage-independent growth. Interestingly, our results showed that BBR down-regulates EGFR protein expression and dose-dependently inhibits MEK and ERK phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

Here, we demonstrate that BBR may be a promising drug to suppress cell invasiveness and growth of TNBC through IL-8-related mechanisms.

Ameliorative effect of berberine coated bio-active nanoparticles in acetaminophen induced hepato-renal damage in diabetic rats

The current investigation was performed for the detailed analysis of protective effect of biofabricate berberine coated nano‑silver ameliorate (BBR-AgNPs) on acetaminophen (APAP) induced hepato-renal damages in diabetic rats by blood biochemistry, tissue biochemistry, histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. The spherical shaped BBR-AgNPs were synthesized by the Biofabrication technique and its physico-chemical characterizations done by different spectroscopic (UV-vis spectrophotometer, XRD spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy EDAX & DLS analyses) and microscopic (FE-SEM) techniques. The diabetic developed rats were administrated with APAP (2.0 g/5 mL/kg) and scrutinize its hepato-renal injuries. The synthesized BBR-AgNPs (75 mg/kg p.o) was administrated orally to the APAP-induced diabetic rats. The result of biochemical markers and lipid peroxidation were significantly (P ˂ 0.05) increased in APAP-induced diabetic rats but decreased the level of antioxidants (P ˂ 0.05), which results obtained in liver and kidney compared to the control group. Immunohistochemical studies result showed that the APAP-induced diabetic rats expressed a high immunoreactivity of nuclear transcription factor (NF-kB). Whereas, the acetaminophen-induced diabetic rats were treated with BBR-AgNPs renovated the changes in the above parameters analyzed. The results of the study clearly indicated that the BBR-AgNPs possess the antioxidant properties as well as anti-diabetic effects, furthermore, the acetaminophen-induced liver and kidney damage was probably inhibited by the inhibition of proinflammatory factor & NF-kB factors.

Self-nanoemulsifying system improves oral absorption and enhances anti-acute myeloid leukemia activity of berberine

BACKGROUND

Recently, we found that berberine (BBR) exerts anti-acute myeloid leukemia activity, particularly toward high-risk and relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia MV4-11 cells in vitro. However, the poor water solubility and low bioavailability observed with oral BBR administration has limited its clinical use. Therefore, we design and develop a novel oil-in-water self-nanoemulsifying system for BBR (BBR SNE) to improve oral bioavailability and enhance BBR efficacy against acute myeloid leukemia by greatly improving its solubility.

RESULTS

This system (size 23.50 ± 1.67 nm, zeta potential - 3.35 ± 0.03 mV) was prepared with RH40 (surfactant), 1,2-propanediol (co-surfactant), squalene (oil) and BBR using low-energy emulsification methods. The system loaded BBR successfully according to thermal gravimetric, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. The release profile results showed that BBR SNE released BBR more slowly than BBR solution. The relative oral bioavailability of this novel system in rabbits was significantly enhanced by 3.41-fold over that of BBR. Furthermore, Caco-2 cell monolayer transport studies showed that this system could help enhance permeation and prevent efflux of BBR. Importantly, mice with BBR SNE treatment had significantly longer survival time than BBR-treated mice (P < 0.001) in an MV4-11 engrafted leukemia murine model.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies confirmed that BBR SNE is a promising therapy for acute myeloid leukemia.

Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System of Tetrandrine for Improved Bioavailability: Physicochemical Characterization and Pharmacokinetic Study

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of self-nanoemulsified drug delivery system (SNEDDS) to improve the oral bioavailability of tetrandrine (Tet). SNEDDS was developed by using rational blends of excipients with good solubilizing ability for Tet which was selected based on solubility studies. Further ternary phase diagram was constructed to determine the self-emulsifying region. The optimal formulation with the best self-nanoemulsified and solubilization ability consisted of 40% (w/w) oleic acid as oil, 15% (w/w) SPC and 30% (w/w) Cremophor RH-40 as surfactant, and 15% (w/w) PEG₄₀₀ as cosurfactant. The average droplet size and zeta-potential of the optimal Tet SNEDDS were 19.75±0.37 nm and 1.87±0.26 mv, respectively. The dissolute rate of Tet SNEDDS in various dissolution media was remarkably faster than Tet commercial tablet. Moreover, in vivo pharmacokinetic study results show that significant increase (p≤ 0.05) in the peak concentration (Cmax) and the area under the curve (AUC) of Tet was observed after the oral administration of Tet SNEDDS and the absorption of Tet from SNEDDS resulted in approximately 2.33-fold increase in oral bioavailability compared with the commercial tablet. Our research suggests that the prepared Tet SNEDDS could be a good candidate for improved the dissolution and oral bioavailability of Tet.

Injectable Gel Constructs with Regenerative and Anti-Infective Dual Effects Based on Assembled Chitosan Microspheres

There is increasing demand for biomaterials that both assist with bone regeneration and have anti-infection qualities in clinical applications. To achieve this goal, chitosan microspheres with either positive or negative charges were fabricated and then assembled as a gel for bone healing. The positively charged chitosan microspheres (CSM; ∼35.5 μm) and negatively charged O-carboxymethyl chitosan microspheres (CMCSM; ∼13.5 μm) were loaded, respectively, with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP-2) and berberine (Bbr) via swollen encapsulation and physical adsorption without a significant change in the electric charges. The release kinetics of BMP-2 and Bbr from the microspheres were also studied in vitro. The results showed that the Bbr/CMCSM microsphere group possessed high antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus; the BMP-2/CSM microsphere group also had excellent cytocompatibility and improved osteoinductivity with the assistance of BMP-2. The assembled gel group consisting of Bbr/CMCSM and BMP-2/CSM had a porous structure that allowed biological signal transfer and tissue infiltration and exhibited significantly enhanced bone reconstruction compared with that of the respective microsphere groups, which should result from the osteoconductivity of the porous structure and the osteoinduction of the BMP-2 growth factor. The oppositely charged microspheres and their assembled gel provide a promising prospect for making injectable tissue-engineered constructs with regenerative and anti-infective dual effects for biomedical applications.

Synergy of theophylline reduces necrotic effect of berberine, induces cell cycle arrest and PARP, HMGB1, Bcl-2 family mediated apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells

Berberine, is a plant alkaloid, proved to have anticancer effect on various cancers. Theophylline (TH), a natural product, is widely used in the treatment of respiratory difficulties. The present study designed to elucidate the effects of theophylline and berberine combination on breast cancer cells cytotoxicity, gene expression and cell cycle. MTT assay revealed that berberine inhibited MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells viability in a time and dose dependent manner (IC₅₀ of 100 μM) but theophylline had no considerably effect on the cells. Combined treatment of berberine and theophylline showed a synergistic anti-proliferation effect, IC₅₀ of berberine reduced to 50 μM and the cells were arrested at G2/M phase. Combined treatment of Berberine and theophylline reduced extracellular level of HMGB1 and down regulated HMGB1 and MMP-9 mRNA expression. The results of flow cytometry using annexin/PI staining of the cells, HMGB1 release, and poly ADP ribose polymerase cleavage demonstrated that theophylline attenuated necrotic effect of berberine and increased the level of apoptotic cell death. Enhancement of Bax content detected by ELISA and upregulation of Bax mRNA expression, down-regulation of Bcl-2 expression and increase of anion superoxide production confirmed induction of apoptosis via intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Replacement of theophylline with exogenous cyclic AMP in combination treatment represented similar effect on berberine cytotoxicity. From the results it is concluded that synergistic anticancer effect of theophylline and berberine suggests that combination of these two drugs may be an effective therapeutic agent against breast cancer cell.

Berberine exerts antioxidant effects via protection of spiral ganglion cells against cytomegalovirus-induced apoptosis

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading cause of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in children because of its damage to the cochlea and spiral ganglion cells. Therefore, it has become a top priority to devise new methods to effectively protect spiral ganglion cells from damage. Berberine (BBR) has gained attention for its vast beneficial biological effects through immunomodulation, and its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis properties. However, the effect of BBR on spiral ganglion cells and molecular mechanisms are still unclear. This study aims to investigate whether BBR has an anti-apoptosis effect in CMV-induced apoptosis in cultured spiral ganglion cells and explore the possible mechanism. In this study, TUNEL and MTT assays significantly demonstrated that low doses of BBR did not promote cell apoptosis and they also inhibited the CMV-induced cultured spiral ganglion cell apoptosis. Immunofluorescence and Western blot assays indicated that the anti-apoptosis effect of BBR was related to Nox3. Mitochondrial calcium and Western blot assays revealed that NMDAR1 mediated this anti-apoptosis effect. Our results demonstrated that BBR exerted an anti-apoptosis effect against CMV in cultured spiral ganglion cells, and the mechanism is related to NMDAR1/Nox3-mediated mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.

Comparative pharmacokinetics and safety assessment of transdermal berberine and dihydroberberine

The natural alkaloid berberine has been ascribed numerous health benefits including lipid and cholesterol reduction and improved insulin sensitivity in diabetics. However, oral (PO) administration of berberine is hindered by poor bioavailability and increasing dose often elicits gastro-intestinal side effects. To overcome the caveats associated with oral berberine, we developed transdermal (TD) formulations of berberine (BBR) and the berberine precursor dihydroberberine (DHB). These formulations were compared to oral BBR using pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and general safety studies in vivo. To complete this work, a sensitive quantitative LC-MS/MS method was developed and validated according the FDA guidelines for bioanalytical methods to simultaneously measure berberine, simvastatin, and simvastatin hydroxy acid with relative quantification used for the berberine metabolite demethylene berberine glucuronide (DBG). Acute pharmacokinetics in Sprague-Dawley rats demonstrated a statistically relevant ranking for berberine bioavailability based upon AUC_0-8 as DHB TD > BBR TD >> BBR PO with similar ranking for the metabolite DBG, indicating that transdermal administration achieves BBR levels well above oral administration. Similarly, chronic administration (14 days) resulted in significantly higher levels of circulating BBR and DBG in DHB TD treated animals. Chronically treated rats were given a single dose of simvastatin with no observed change in the drugs bioavailability compared with control, suggesting the increased presence of BBR had no effect on simvastatin metabolism. This observation was further supported by consistent CYP3A4 expression across all treatment groups. Moreover, no changes in kidney and liver biomarkers, including alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase, were observed between treatment formats, and confirming previous reports that BBR has no effect on HMG-CoA expression. This study supports the safe use of transdermal compositions that improve on the poor bioavailability of oral berberine and have the potential to be more efficacious in the treatment of dyslipidemia or hypercholesterolemia.

Toxicological Effects of Berberine and Sanguinarine

Berberine and Sanguinarine alkaloids belong to a group of naturally occurring chemical compounds that mostly contain basic nitrogen atoms. This group also includes some related compounds with neutral or weakly acidic properties. Alkaloids are produced by a large number of organisms including bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals. Berberine and Sanguinarine both are isoquinoline derivatives and belong to protoberberine and benzophenanthridines, respectively. Tyrosine or phenylalanine is common precursor for the biosynthesis of both. Sanguinarine [13-methyl (1,3) benzodioxolo(5,6-c)-1,3-dioxolo (4,5) phenanthridinium] is a toxin that kills animal cells through its action on the Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase transmembrane protein. Berberine, on the other hand, has been reported to cause cytotoxicity and adversely influence the synthesis of DNA. Several workers have reported varied pharmacological properties of these alkaloids as they exhibit antibacterial, antiasthma, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities. This review article illustrates the toxicological effects of berberine and sanguinarine as well as mechanistic part of berberine and sanguinarine mediated toxicity in different living systems. This manuscript has included the lethal doses (LD₅₀) of berberine and sanguinarine in different animals via different routs of exposure. Also, the effects of these alkaloids on the activities of some key enzymes, cell lines and organ development etc. have been summarized.

Berberine hydrochloride inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis of non-small cell lung cancer via the suppression of the MMP2 and Bcl-2/Bax signaling pathways

Berberine, also known as berberine hydrochloride and isoquinoline alkaloid, is a major alkaloid from Coptis chinensis. Berberine's extensive biological properties have previously been studied, and it has been used clinically for the treatment of diarrhea, hypertension, diabetes and other diseases. The present study aimed to determine the possible anticancer effects of berberine hydrochloride treatment on human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell proliferation and apoptosis via the matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)/Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) signaling pathway. Human A549 lung carcinoma cells were exposed to various concentrations of berberine hydrochloride in order to analyze the possible anticancer effects on NSCLC cell proliferation and apoptosis, using a MTT assay and an Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide apoptosis kit. Subsequently, the present study detected the expression of MMP-2, Bcl-2, Bax and Janus kinase 2 (Jak2). Berberine hydrochloride treatment inhibited the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and transcription factor AP-1 (AP-1) proteins, in A549 cells. Firstly, it was revealed that berberine hydrochloride treatment may inhibit proliferation, increase cytotoxicity and enhance apoptosis in A549 cells. Subsequently, treatment with berberine hydrochloride significantly downregulated MMP-2 protein expression, increased the activity of the Bcl-2/Bax signaling pathway and suppressed the Jak2/VEGF/NF-κB/AP-1signaling pathways. These results suggest that berberine hydrochloride may be a potential novel anticancer drug, since it inhibits cell proliferation and promotes the rate of apoptosis of NSCLC cells by the suppression of the MMP-2, Bcl-2/Bax and Jak2/VEGF/NF-κB/AP-1 signaling pathways.

Potential applications and human biosafety of nanomaterials used in nanomedicine

With the rapid development of nanotechnology, potential applications of nanomaterials in medicine have been widely researched in recent years. Nanomaterials themselves can be used as image agents or therapeutic drugs, and for drug and gene delivery, biological devices, nanoelectronic biosensors or molecular nanotechnology. As the composition, morphology, chemical properties, implant sites as well as potential applications become more and more complex, human biosafety of nanomaterials for clinical use has become a major concern. If nanoparticles accumulate in the human body or interact with the body molecules or chemical components, health risks may also occur. Accordingly, the unique chemical and physical properties, potential applications in medical fields, as well as human biosafety in clinical trials are reviewed in this study. Finally, this article tries to give some suggestions for future work in nanomedicine research. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Nanoemulsion-based delivery system for enhanced oral bioavailability and caco-2 cell monolayers permeability of berberine hydrochloride

Berberine hydrochloride (BBH) has a variety of pharmacological activities such as antitumor, antimicrobial, anti-inflammation, and reduce irritable bowel syndrome. However, poor stability and low oral bioavailability limited its usage. Herein, an oil-in-water nanoemulsion system of BBH was developed to improve its stability and oral bioavailability. The pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed for the determination of composition of various nanoemulsions. The nanoemulsions of BBH composed of Labrafil M 1944 CS (oil phase), RH-40 (surfactant), glycerin (co-surfactant), and water (aqueous phase). The O/W nanoemulsion of BBH showed a relative bioavailability of 440.40% compared with unencapsulated BBH and was stable in our 6-month stability study. Further, there was a significant increase in intestinal permeability of BBH as assessed by Caco-2 cell monolayers and a significant reduction in efflux of BBH by the multidrug efflux pump P-glycoprotein. This study confirmed that the nanoemulsion formulation could be used as an alternative oral formulation of BBH to improve its stability, oral bioavailability and permeability.

Comprehensive Quantitative Analysis of 32 Chemical Ingredients of a Chinese Patented Drug Sanhuang Tablet

Sanhuang Tablet (SHT) is a Chinese patented drug commonly used for the treatment of inflammations of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. It contains a special medicinal composition including the single compound berberine hydrochloride, extracts of Scutellariae Radix and Rhei Radix et Rhizoma, as well as the powder of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma. Despite advances in analytical techniques, quantitative evaluation of a Chinese patented drug like SHT remains a challenge due to the complexity of its chemical profile. In this study, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was used to simultaneously quantify 29 non-sugar small molecule components of SHT (11 flavonoids, two isoflavonoids, one flavanone, five anthraquinones, two dianthranones, five alkaloids, two organic acids and one stilbene). Three major saccharide components, namely fructose, glucose, and sucrose, were also quantitatively determined using high performance liquid chromatography-charged aerosol detector (HPLC-CAD) on an Asahipak NH₂P-50 4E amino column. The established methods were validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, and stability, and then successfully applied to analyze 27 batches of commercial SHT products. A total of up to 57.61% (w/w) of SHT could be quantified, in which the contents of the determined non-saccharide small molecules varied from 5.91% to 16.83% (w/w) and three saccharides accounted for 4.41% to 48.05% (w/w). The results showed that the quality of the commercial products was inconsistent, and only four of those met Chinese Pharmacopoeia criteria.

Bioformulation of silver nanoparticles as berberine carrier cum anticancer agent against breast cancer

The present work focuses on the bioformulation of AgNPs as a carrier for berberine and tests whether biogenic AgNPs elicit anticancer activity against breast cancer.

Berberine-loaded Janus nanocarriers for magnetic field-enhanced therapy against hepatocellular carcinoma

Berberine, an bioactive isoquinolin alkaloid from traditional Chinese herbs, is considered to be a promising agent based on its remarkable activity against hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the clinical application of this nature compound had been hampered owing to its properties such as poor aqueous solubility, low gastrointestinal absorption, and reduced bioavailability. Therefore, we developed Janus magnetic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe₃ O₄ -mSiO₂ NPs) consisting of a Fe₃ O₄ head for magnetic targeting and a mesoporous SiO₂ body for berberine delivery. A pH-sensitive group was introduced on the surface of mesoporous silica for berberine loading to develop a tumor microenvironment-responsive nanocarrier, which exhibited uniform morphology, good superparamagnetic properties, high drug-loading amounts, superior endocytic ability, and low cytotoxicity. Berberine-loaded Fe₃ O₄ -mSiO₂ NPs exerted extraordinarily high specificity for hepatocellular carcinoma cells, which was due to the pH-responsive berberine release, as well as higher endocytosis capacity in hepatocellular carcinoma cells rather than normal liver cells. More importantly, an external magnetic field could significantly improve antitumor activity of Ber-loaded Fe₃ O₄ -mSiO₂ NPs through enhancing berberine internalization. Taken together, our results suggest that Janus nanocarriers driven by the magnetic field may provide an effective and safe way to facilitate clinical use of berberine against hepatocellular carcinoma.

Targeting arachidonic acid pathway by natural products for cancer prevention and therapy

Arachidonic acid (AA) pathway, a metabolic process, plays a key role in carcinogenesis. Hence, AA pathway metabolic enzymes phospholipase A₂s (PLA₂s), cyclooxygenases (COXs) and lipoxygenases (LOXs) and their metabolic products, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, have been considered novel preventive and therapeutic targets in cancer. Bioactive natural products are a good source for development of novel cancer preventive and therapeutic drugs, which have been widely used in clinical practice due to their safety profiles. AA pathway inhibitory natural products have been developed as chemopreventive and therapeutic agents against several cancers. Curcumin, resveratrol, apigenin, anthocyans, berberine, ellagic acid, eugenol, fisetin, ursolic acid, [6]-gingerol, guggulsteone, lycopene and genistein are well known cancer chemopreventive agents which act by targeting multiple pathways, including COX-2. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid and baicalein can be chemopreventive molecules against various cancers by inhibiting LOXs. Several PLA₂s inhibitory natural products have been identified with chemopreventive and therapeutic potentials against various cancers. In this review, we critically discuss the possible utility of natural products as preventive and therapeutic agents against various oncologic diseases, including prostate, pancreatic, lung, skin, gastric, oral, blood, head and neck, colorectal, liver, cervical and breast cancers, by targeting AA pathway. Further, the current status of clinical studies evaluating AA pathway inhibitory natural products in cancer is reviewed. In addition, various emerging issues, including bioavailability, toxicity and explorability of combination therapy, for the development of AA pathway inhibitory natural products as chemopreventive and therapeutic agents against human malignancy are also discussed.

Berberine induces pacemaker potential inhibition via cGMP-dependent ATP-sensitive K+ channels by stimulating mu/delta opioid receptors in cultured interstitial cells of Cajal from mouse small intestine

Berberine is traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorders. The interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) are the pacemaker cells of the gastrointestinal tract, which are responsible for the production of gut movements. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of berberine on pacemaker potentials (PPs) in cultured ICC clusters from the mouse small intestine, and sought to identify the receptors involved and the underlying mechanisms of action. All experiments were performed on cultured ICCs, and a whole‑cell patch‑clamp configuration was used to record PPs from ICC clusters (current clamp mode). Under current clamp mode, berberine was shown to decrease the amplitude and frequency of PPs. However, these effects were suppressed by treatment with glibenclamide, a specific ATP‑sensitive K+ channel blocker. Nor‑binaltorphimine dihydrochloride (a kappa opioid receptor antagonist) did not suppress berberine‑induced PP inhibition, whereas ICI 174,864 (a delta opioid receptor antagonist) and CTOP (a mu opioid receptor antagonist) did suppress the inhibitory effects of berberine. Pretreatment with SQ‑22536 (an adenylate cyclase inhibitor) or with KT‑5720 (a protein kinase A inhibitor) did not suppress the effects of berberine; however, pretreatment with 1H‑[1,2,4] oxadiazolo [4,3‑a] quinoxalin‑1‑one (a guanylate cyclase inhibitor) or KT‑5823 [a protein kinase G (PKG) inhibitor] did. In addition, berberine stimulated cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production in ICCs. These observations indicate that berberine may inhibit the pacemaker activity of ICC clusters via ATP‑sensitive K+ channels and the cGMP‑PKG‑dependent pathway by stimulating mu and delta opioid receptors. Therefore, berberine may provide a basis for the development of novel agents for the treatment of GI motility dysfunction.

Berberine Antifungal Activity in Fluconazole-Resistant Pathogenic Yeasts: Action Mechanism Evaluated by Flow Cytometry and Biofilm Growth Inhibition in Candida spp

The incidence of fungal infections and, in particular, the incidence of fungal antibiotic resistance, which is associated with biofilm formation, have significantly increased, contributing to morbidity and mortality. Thus, new therapeutic strategies need to be developed. In this context, natural products have emerged as a major source of possible antifungal agents. Berberine is a protoberberine-type isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from the roots, rhizomes, and stem bark of natural herbs, such as Berberis aquifolium, Berberis vulgaris, Berberis aristata, and Hydrastis canadensis, and of Phellodendron amurense. Berberine has been proven to have broad antibacterial and antifungal activity. In the present study, the potential antifungal effect of berberine against fluconazole-resistant Candida and Cryptococcus neoformans strains, as well as against the biofilm form of Candida spp., was assessed. The antifungal effect of berberine was determined by a broth microdilution method (the M27-A3 method of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute) and flow cytometry techniques, in which the probable mechanism of action of the compound was also assessed. For biofilm assessment, a colorimetric 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to determine the susceptibility of sessile cells. The isolates used in the study belonged to the Laboratory of Bioprospection and Experiments in Yeast (LABEL) of the Federal University of Ceará. After 24 and 72 h, fluconazole-resistant Candida and Cryptococcus neoformans strains showed berberine MICs equal to 8 μg/ml and 16 μg/ml, respectively. Cytometric analysis showed that treatment with berberine caused alterations to the integrity of the plasma and mitochondrial membranes and DNA damage, which led to cell death, probably by apoptosis. Assessment of biofilm-forming isolates after treatment showed statistically significant reductions in biofilm cell activity (P < 0.001).

Milk-derived multi-fluorescent graphene quantum dot-based cancer theranostic system

An economical green-chemistry approach was used for the synthesis of aqueous soluble graphene quantum dots (GQDs) from cow milk for simultaneous imaging and drug delivery in cancer. The GQDs synthesized using one-pot microwave-assisted heating were multi-fluorescent, spherical in shape having a lateral size of ca. 5nm. The role of processing parameters such as heating time and ionic strength showed a profound effect on photoluminescence properties of GQDs. The GQDs were N-doped and oxygen-rich as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. Cysteamine hydrochloride (Cys) was used to attach an anti-cancer drug berberine hydrochloride (BHC) on GQDs forming GQDs@Cys-BHC complex with c.a. 88% drug loading efficiency. In vitro drug release was studied at the acidic-basic environment and drug kinetics was studied using pharmacokinetic statistical models. The GQDs were biocompatible on L929 cells whereas theranostic GQDs@Cys-BHC complex showed a potent cytotoxic effect on different cancerous cell line models: cervical cancer cell lines such as HeLa cells and breast cancer cells such as MDA-MB-231 confirmed by Trypan blue and MTT-based cytotoxic assays. Furthermore, multi-excitation based cellular bioimaging was demonstrated using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and fluorescence microscopy using GQDs as well as GQDs@Cys-BHC complex. Thus, drug delivery (therapeutic) and bioimaging (diagnostic) properties of GQDs@Cys-BHC complex are thought to have a potential in vitro theranostic application in cancer therapy.

Chinese Herbs Interfering with Cancer Reprogramming Metabolism

Emerging evidence promotes a reassessment of metabolic reprogramming regulation in cancer research. Although there exists a long history of Chinese herbs applied in cancer treatment, few reports have addressed the effects of Chinese herbal components on metabolic reprogramming, which is a central cancer hallmark involved in the slowing or prevention of chemoresistance in cancer cells. In this review, we have focused on four core elements altered by metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells. These include glucose transport, glycolysis, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, and fatty acid synthesis. With this focus, we have summarized recent advances in metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells in response to specific Chinese herbal components. We propose that exploring Chinese herbal interference in cancer metabolic reprogramming might identify new therapeutic targets for cancer and more ways in which to approach metabolism-related diseases.

Development and evaluation of vitamin E d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate-mixed polymeric phospholipid micelles of berberine as an anticancer nanopharmaceutical

Berberine (Brb) is an active alkaloid occurring in various common plant species, with well-recognized potential for cancer therapy. Brb not only augments the efficacy of antineoplastic chemotherapy and radiotherapy but also exhibits direct antimitotic and proapoptotic actions, along with distinct antiangiogenic and antimetastatic activities in a variety of tumors. Despite its low systemic toxicity, several pharmaceutical challenges limit the application of Brb in cancer therapy (ie, extremely low solubility and permeability, very poor pharmacokinetics (PKs), and oral bioavailability). Among lipid-based nanocarriers investigated recently for Brb, stealth amphiphilic micelles of polymeric phospholipid conjugates were studied here as a promising strategy to improve Brb delivery to tumors. Specifically, physicochemically stable micelles made of 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[methoxy(polyethyleneglycol)-2000] (PEG-PE) mixed with d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) (PEG-succinate ester of vitamin E), in a 3:1 M ratio, increased Brb solubilization by 300%. Our PEG-PE/TPGS-mixed micelles firmly retained the incorporated Brb, displaying extended-release profile in simulated media, with up to 30-fold projected improvement in simulated PKs of Brb. Owing to the markedly better uptake of Brb-containing mixed micelles in vitro, our Brb-mixed micelles nanoformulation significantly amplified apoptosis and overall cytotoxic effectiveness against monolayer and spheroid cultures of human prostate carcinomas (16- to 18-fold lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration values in PC3 and LNPaC, respectively), compared to free Brb. Mixed PEG-PE/TPGS micelles represent a promising delivery platform for the sparingly soluble anticancer agent, Brb, encouraging further pharmaceutical development of this drug for cancer therapy.

Role of Berberine in the Treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid widely used in the treatment of microbial infections. Recent studies have shown that berberine can enhance the inhibitory efficacy of antibiotics against clinical multi-drug resistant isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of berberine exhibited no bactericidal activity against MRSA, but affected MRSA biofilm development in a dose dependent manner within the concentration ranging from 1 to 64 μg/mL. Further study indicated that berberine inhibited MRSA amyloid fibrils formation, which consist of phenol-soluble modulins (PSMs). Molecular dynamics simulation revealed that berberine could bind with the phenyl ring of Phe19 in PSMα2 through hydrophobic interaction. Collectively, berberine can inhibit MRSA biofilm formation via affecting PSMs’ aggregation into amyloid fibrils, and thereby enhance bactericidal activity of antibiotics. These findings will provide new insights into the multiple pharmacological properties of berberine in the treatment of microbial-generated amyloid involved diseases.

Berberine Improves Intestinal Motility and Visceral Pain in the Mouse Models Mimicking Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D) Symptoms in an Opioid-Receptor Dependent Manner

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Berberine and its derivatives display potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity. Here we aimed at characterizing the mechanism of action of berberine in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and cortical neurons using animal models and in vitro tests.

METHODS

The effect of berberine was characterized in murine models mimicking diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) symptoms. Then the opioid antagonists were used to identify the receptors involved. Furthermore, the effect of berberineon opioid receptors expression was established in the mouse intestine and rat fetal cortical neurons.

RESULTS

In mouse models, berberine prolonged GI transit and time to diarrhea in a dose-dependent manner, and significantly reduced visceral pain. In physiological conditions the effects of berberine were mediated by mu- (MOR) and delta- (DOR) opioid receptors; hypermotility, excessive secretion and nociception were reversed by berberine through MOR and DOR-dependent action. We also found that berberine increased the expression of MOR and DOR in the mouse bowel and rat fetal cortical neurons.

CONCLUSION

Berberine significantly improved IBS-D symptoms in animal models, possibly through mu- and delta- opioid receptors. Berberine may become a new drug candidate for the successful treatment of IBS-D in clinical conditions.

The use of calorimetry in the biophysical characterization of small molecule alkaloids binding to RNA structures

BACKGROUND

RNA has now emerged as a potential target for therapeutic intervention. RNA targeted drug design requires detailed thermodynamic characterization that provides new insights into the interactions and this together with structural data, may be used in rational drug design. The use of calorimetry to characterize small molecule-RNA interactions has emerged as a reliable and sensitive tool after the recent advancements in biocalorimetry.

SCOPE OF THE REVIEW

This review summarizes the recent advancements in thermodynamic characterization of small molecules, particularly some natural alkaloids binding to various RNA structures. Thermodynamic characterization provides information that can supplement structural data leading to more effective drug development protocols.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

This review provides a concise report on the use of isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques in characterizing small molecules, mostly alkaloids-RNA interactions with particular reference to binding of tRNA, single stranded RNA, double stranded RNA, poly(A), triplex RNA.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

It is now apparent that a combination of structural and thermodynamic data is essential for rational design of specific RNA targeted drugs. Recent advancements in biocalorimetry instrumentation have led to detailed understanding of the thermodynamics of small molecules binding to various RNA structures paving the path for the development of many new natural and synthetic molecules as specific binders to various RNA structures. RNA targeted drug design, that remained unexplored, will immensely benefit from the calorimetric studies leading to the development of effective drugs for many diseases.

The Structure-Dependent Electric Release and Enhanced Oxidation of Drug in Graphene Oxide-Based Nanocarrier Loaded with Anticancer Herbal Drug Berberine

The aim of the current investigation is to explore graphene oxide (GO) special electric and electrochemical properties in modulating and tuning drug delivery in tumor special environment of electrophysiology. The electric-sensitive drug release and redox behavior of GO-bearing berberine (Ber) was studied. Drug release in cell potential was applied in a designed electrode system: tumor environment was simulated at pH 6.2 with 0.1 V pulse voltage, whereas the normal was at pH 7.4 with 0.2 V. Quite different from the pH-depended profile, the electricity-triggered behavior indicated a high correlation with the carriers' structure: GO-based nanocomposite showed a burst release on its special "skin effect," whereas the PEGylated ones released slowly owing to the electroviscous effect of polymer. Cyclic voltammetry was used to investigate the redox behaviors of colloid PEGylated GO toward absorbed Ber in pH 5.8 and 7.2 solutions. After drug loading, the oxidation of Ber was enhanced in a neutral environment, whereas the enhancement of PEG-GO was in an acidic one, which means a possible increased susceptibility of their biotransformation in vivo. The studies designed in this work may help to establish a kind of carrier system for the sensitive delivery and metabolic regulation of drugs according to the different electrophysiological environment in tumor therapy.

Review of tumor dormancy therapy using traditional oriental herbal medicine

OBJECTIVE

Standard cancer therapy prolongs survival, but can be detrimental to the quality of life, compromise the immune system, and leave residual disease that can cause recurrence years or decades in the future. Tumor dormancy therapy is a novel therapeutic approach that may improve these shortcomings, promote quality of life, and prolong survival. The aim of this study was to analyze studies on dormancy therapy, especially studies using traditional Oriental herbal medicine, so as to evaluate the efficacy of dormancy therapy with traditional oriental herbal medicine.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature review using Scientific and Technical Information Integration Services (NDSL), PubMed, and RISS. We searched for clinical reports, papers, and books related to tumor metastasis, recurrence, immunotherapy, tumor dormancy, and traditional oriental herbal medicine with anticancer effects. Seventy-nine (79) experimental and clinical articles in both Korean and English were reviewed. This study was conducted from March 1, 2012 to May 31, 2012.

RESULTS

This approach, Tumor dormancy therapy, rather than seeking to remove the tumor, includes combination of low-dose chemotherapy, immunotherapy, immunosurveillance, and other methods to stabilize tumor growth and to enhance the host is immunity against disseminated tumor cells and thus to manage cancer as a chronic disease while maintaining quality of life. In particular, integrative use of Oriental herbal medicine has been shown to induce or maintain tumor dormancy, increase the effectiveness of conventional chemotherapy, improve quality of life, and prolong survival.

CONCLUSION

Tumor dormancy therapy is a promising novel therapeutic approach that may be especially effective with Oriental herbal medicine. Further research is needed to determine its potential mechanisms and therapeutic applications.

From prejudice to evidence: the case of rhizoma coptidis in singapore

Rhizoma Coptidis (RC), commonly known as huanglian, is a herb frequently used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prescriptions. Known to have "clearing damp-heat, quenching fire and counteracting poison" properties, it was widely used in the Chinese community in Singapore. Berberine, an alkaloid isolated from RC, is known to have a wide array of therapeutic effects including antimicrobial, antineoplastic, and hepatoprotective effects. In 1978, RC was implicated in causing neonatal jaundice (NNJ) and kernicterus in neonates suffering from glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, leading to the banning of RC and berberine in Singapore. More than three decades later, accumulating evidence-based studies pointing to the safety of RC for general public and better understanding of G6PD deficiency, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in Singapore reviewed and lifted the prohibition on RC and berberine, turning a brand new chapter in the history of TCM in Singapore. This paper aims to review the safety of RC and berberine, using the prohibition of use and subsequent lifting of ban on RC and berberine in Singapore as an illustration to highlight the importance of evidence-based studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Berberine hydrochloride IL-8 dependently inhibits invasion and IL-8-independently promotes cell apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells

Breast cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide in females, has high metastastic and recurrence rates. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-metastatic and anticancer in situ effect of berberine hydrochloride (BER) in MDA-MB-231 cells. BER dose-dependently inhibited proliferation and the IL-8 secretion of MDA-MB-231 cells. Additional experiments revealed that the inactivation of PI3K, JAK2, NF-κB and AP-1 by BER contributed to the decreased IL-8 secretion. BER abrogated cell invasion induced by IL-8 accompanied with the downregulation of the gene expression of MMP-2, EGF, E-cadherin, bFGF and fibronectin. In addition, BER reduced cell motility but induced G2/M arrest and cell apoptosis in an IL-8‑independent manner. BER modulated multiple signaling pathway molecules involved in the regulation of cell apoptosis, including activation of p38 MAPK and JNK and deactivation of JAK2, p85 PI3K, Akt and NF-κB. The enhanced cell apoptosis induced by BER was eliminated by inhibitors of p38 MAPK and JNK but was strengthened by activator of p38 MAPK. Thus, BER inhibited cell metastasis partly through the IL-8 mediated pathway while it induced G2/M arrest and promoted cell apoptosis through the IL-8 independent pathway. Apoptosis induced by BER was mediated by crosstalks of various pathways including activation of p38 MAPK and JNK pathways and inactivation of Jak2/PI3K/NF-κB/AP-1 pathways. The results suggested that BER may be an efficient and safe drug candidate for treating highly metastatic breast cancer.

Chitosan-coated nano-liposomes for the oral delivery of berberine hydrochloride

Berberine hydrochloride (BH) possesses various pharmacological properties including anticancer; unfortunately, it has low oral bioavailability and potential side effects for its parenteral administration. Nanoscale delivery carriers can increase the oral bioavailability of BH. Chitosan has interesting biopharmaceutical properties such as nontoxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mucoadhesiveness, and the ability to open epithelial tight junctions. This study aims to engineer a chitosan-coated nano-liposomal carrier for the oral delivery of BH. The engineered formulation had a size in the nanoscale range. Chitosan-coated nano-liposomes displayed better stability and slower BH release in the simulated gastrointestinal (GI) environment as compared to the uncoated ones. All values of pharmacokinetic analysis for chitosan-coated nano-liposomes were higher than for uncoated ones. These findings demonstrate that chitosan-coated nano-liposomes are more efficient than uncoated ones for the oral delivery of BH. It can be concluded that the stability and delayed BH release in the simulated GI environment were improved with engineered chitosan-coated nano-liposomes. Moreover, since desirable in vitro and in vivo characteristics were achieved, they are promising release devices for the oral delivery of BH increasing the bioavailability of the drug.

Effects of berberine in the gastrointestinal tract - a review of actions and therapeutic implications

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid present in several plant species, including Coptis sp. and Berberis sp. In traditional medicine, extracts of berberine are used in the treatment of diarrhea of different origins. Recent studies have shown that berberine and its derivatives have significant biological effects on gastrointestinal (GI) and other functions and may become therapeutics for the treatment of diarrhea, gastroenteritis, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular diseases and inflammatory conditions. This paper summarizes the current knowledge on the actions of berberine in the GI tract. Binding and target sites, activated intracellular pathways, as well as the absorption and metabolism of berberine are discussed. Effects that may be useful in future clinical treatment, like antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects are critically reviewed and potential clinical applications are presented in detail.

Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method for evaluating enzyme activity and screening inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2

RATIONALE

Prostaglandin E2 is an important biomarker in many biological systems. The development of sensitive and reliable analytical methods for monitoring PGE2 contents in various samples is of great interest. Here we developed an improved method for evaluating the enzyme activity and screening COX-2 inhibitors using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS) combined with PGE2 derivatization.

METHODS

Girard's reagent-T was used as the derivatization reagent and the reaction conditions were optimized. The established method was performed to screen the COX-2 inhibitors from effective constituents of herbs and detect the concentration of PGE2 in biological tissue samples (liver and kidney). The IC50 values of celecoxib, rofecoxib, sinomenine, bulleyaconitine A, tetrandrine, fangchinoline, berberine hydrochloride and sophocarpidine towards COX-2 were determined.

RESULTS

This method improves the quantitative ability for PGE2 , including the linearly dependent coefficient, linearity range and limit of detection. After derivatization, the derivatized PGE2 could be detected in positive ion mode of electrospray ionization (ESI), which improves the detection sensitivity 10-fold compared to that of the direct detection of underivatized PGE2 in negative ESI mode. Besides the positive control, sinomenine (IC50 =113 μM) and bulleyaconitine A (IC50=53 μM) were found to be potent COX-2 inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

All the results indicate that the present derivatization quantification method of PGE2 could be used as the detection method of COX-2 enzyme activity and as the screening method for COX-2 inhibitors.

Berberine, an epiphany against cancer

Alkaloids are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of many diseases. These compounds are synthesized in plants as secondary metabolites and have multiple effects on cellular metabolism. Among plant derivatives with biological properties, the isoquinoline quaternary alkaloid berberine possesses a broad range of therapeutic uses against several diseases. In recent years, berberine has been reported to inhibit cell proliferation and to be cytotoxic towards cancer cells. Based on this evidence, many derivatives have been synthesized to improve berberine efficiency and selectivity; the results so far obtained on human cancer cell lines support the idea that they could be promising agents for cancer treatment. The main properties of berberine and derivatives will be illustrated.