Berberine Protects Secondary Injury in Mice with Traumatic Brain Injury Through Anti-oxidative and Anti-inflammatory Modulation

Berberine inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation and proinflammatory macrophage M1 polarization to accelerate peripheral nerve regeneration

Berberine (BBR) has demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects by modulating macrophage polarization. Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms through which berberine regulates post-injury inflammation within the peripheral nerve system remain elusive. This study seeks to elucidate the role of BBR and its underlying mechanisms in inflammation following peripheral nerve injury (PNI). Adult male C57BL/6J mice subjected to PNI were administered daily doses of berberine (0, 60, 120, 180, 240 ​mg/kg) via gavage from day 1 through day 28. Evaluation of the sciatic function index (SFI) and paw withdrawal threshold revealed that BBR dose-dependently enhanced both motor and sensory functions. Immunofluorescent staining for anti-myelin basic protein (anti-MBP) and anti-neurofilament-200 (anti-NF-200), along with histological staining comprising hematoxylin-eosin (HE), luxol fast blue (LFB), and Masson staining, demonstrated that BBR dose-dependently promoted structural regeneration. Molecular analyses including qRT-PCR, Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence confirmed that inactivation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by MCC950 shifted macrophages from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, while also impeding macrophage infiltration. Furthermore, BBR significantly downregulated the expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its associated molecules in macrophages, thereby mitigating NLRP3 inflammasome activation-induced macrophage M1 polarization and inflammation. In summary, BBR's neuroprotective effects were concomitant with the suppression of inflammation after PNI, achieved through the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation-induced macrophage M1 polarization.

The neuroprotective potential of phytochemicals in traumatic brain injury: mechanistic insights and pharmacological implications

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) leads to brain damage, comprising both immediate primary damage and a subsequent cascade of secondary injury mechanisms. The primary injury results in localized brain damage, while the secondary damage initiates inflammatory responses, followed by the disruption of the blood-brain barrier, infiltration of peripheral blood cells, brain edema, and the release of various immune mediators, including chemotactic factors and interleukins. TBI disrupts molecular signaling, cell structures, and functions. In addition to physical tissue damage, such as axonal injuries, contusions, and haemorrhages, TBI interferes with brain functioning, impacting cognition, decision-making, memory, attention, and speech capabilities. Despite a deep understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI, an intensive effort to evaluate the underlying mechanisms with effective therapeutic interventions is imperative to manage the repercussions of TBI. Studies have commenced to explore the potential of employing natural compounds as therapeutic interventions for TBI. These compounds are characterized by their low toxicity and limited interactions with conventional drugs. Moreover, many natural compounds demonstrate the capacity to target various aspects of the secondary injury process. While our understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI, there is an urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions to mitigate its consequences. Here, we aimed to summarize the mechanism of action and the role of phytochemicals against TBI progression. This review discusses the therapeutic implications of various phytonutrients and addresses primary and secondary consequences of TBI. In addition, we highlighted the roles of emerging phytochemicals as promising candidates for therapeutic intervention of TBI. The review highlights the neuroprotective roles of phytochemicals against TBI and the mechanistic approach. Furthermore, our efforts focused on the underlying mechanisms, providing a better understanding of the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals in TBI therapeutics.

Effects of berberine and barberry on selected inflammatory biomarkers in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

The previous meta-analysis showed an advantageous effect of berberine supplementation on interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations; however, it is unknown the dosage that this component influences inflammatory biomarkers. A comprehensive search was done in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science until September 2022 to find randomized controlled trials (RCT) that assessed the effects of berberine/barberry on IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP in adults but not trials without a control group. Studies bias was assessed using RoB 2. A random-effects model was performed to calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD). A dose-dependent effect was calculated. Eighteen clinical trials with 1600 participants were included in the current meta-analysis. These interventions significantly mitigate IL-6 levels (-1.18 pg/mL), TNF-α levels (-3.72 pg/mL), and CRP levels (-1.33 mg/L). In addition, the non-linear analysis showed a significant lowering effect of berberine/barberry on IL-6 and TNF-α levels in doses <1000 mg/day and less than 5 weeks of intervention. There are limitations to our findings, including low-quality studies and significant heterogeneity. These interventions might be considered adjunct therapy to managing inflammation status. However, more investigation and high-quality evidence must be conducted to obtain more comprehensive and generalizable results.

Spautin-1 Protects Against Mild TBI-Induced Anxiety-Like Behavior in Mice via Immunologically Silent Apoptosis

Anxiety is reportedly one of the most common mental changes after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Perineuronal nets (PNNs) produced by astrocytes in the lateral hypothalamus (LHA) that surround gamma-aminobutyric acid-ergic (GABAergic) neurons have been associated with anxiety. The potent anti-tumor effects of Spautin-1, a novel autophagy inhibitor, have been documented in malignant melanoma; moreover, the inhibition of autophagy is reported to mitigate anxiety disorders. However, little is known about the ability of spautin-1 to alleviate anxiety. In this study, we sought to investigate whether spautin-1 could alleviate anxiety-like behaviors post-TBI by reducing the loss of PNNs in the LHA. A mild TBI was established in mice through Feeney's weight-drop model. Then, Spautin-1 (20 mmol/2 μl) was immediately administered into the left lateral ventricle. Behavioral and pathological changes were assessed at 24 h, 7 days, 30 days, 31 days and 32 days after TBI by the neurological severity scores (NSS), open field test (OFT), elevated plus-maze (EPM) test, western blot, immunofluorescence assays and electron microscopy. Spautin-1 significantly reversed TBI-induced decreased time in the central zone during OFT and in the open-arm during the EPM test. Spautin-1 also increased PNNs around GABAergic neurons indicated by WFA- plus GAD2- positive A2-type astrocytes and attenuated M1-type microglia in the LHA 32 days after TBI compared to TBI alone. Moreover, compared to mice that only underwent TBI, spautin-1 downregulated autophagic vacuoles, abnormal organelles, the expression of Beclin 1, USP13, phospho-TBK1, and phospho-IRF3 and upregulated the levels of cleaved caspase-3, -7 and -9, but failed to increase TUNEL-positive cells in the LHA at 24 h. Spautin-1 alleviated anxiety-like behavior in mice exposed to mild TBI; this protective mechanism may be associated with decreased PNNs loss around GABAergic neurons via immunologically silent apoptosis induced by the caspase cascade.

Berberine-loaded MSC-derived sEVs encapsulated in injectable GelMA hydrogel for spinal cord injury repair

After spinal cord injury (SCI), local inflammatory response and fibrous scar formation severely hinder nerve regeneration. Berberine (Ber) has a powerful regulatory effect on the local microenvironment, but its limited solubility and permeability through the blood-brain barrier severely limit its systemic efficacy. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs)-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are natural nanocarriers with high cargo loading capacity, and can cross the blood-brain barrier. Most importantly, sEVs can improve drug solubility and drug utilization. Therefore, they can overcome many defects of Ber application. This experiment aimed to design a Ber-carrying hUC-MSCs-derived sEVs and GelMA hydrogel. Ber was loaded into sEVs (sEVs-Ber) by ultrasonic co-incubation with a drug loading capacity (LC) of 15.07%. The unhindered release of up to 80% of sEVs-Ber from GelMA hydrogel was accomplished for up to 14 days. And they could be directly absorbed by local cells of injury, allowing for direct local delivery of the drug and enhancing its efficacy. The experimental results confirmed injecting GelMA-sEVs-Ber into spinal cord defects could exert anti-inflammatory effects by regulating the expression of inflammatory factors. It also demonstrated the anti-fibrotic effect of Ber in SCI for the first time. The modulatory effects of sEVs and Ber on the local microenvironment significantly promoted nerve regeneration and recovery of motor function in post-SCI rats. These results demonstrated that the GelMA-sEVs-Ber dual carrier system is a promising therapeutic strategy for SCI repair.

Effect of Berberine against Cognitive Deficits in Rat Model of Thioacetamide-Induced Liver Cirrhosis and Hepatic Encephalopathy (Behavioral, Biochemical, Molecular and Histological Evaluations)

BACKGROUND

Liver cirrhosis (LC) is one of the chronic liver diseases with high disability and mortality accompanying hepatic encephalopathy (HE) followed by cognitive dysfunctions. In this work, the effect of berberine (Ber) on spatial cognition was studied in a rat model of LC induced by thioacetamide (TAA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were divided into six groups: (1) control; (2) TAA, 200 mg/kg/day, i.p.; (3-5) TAA + Ber; received Ber (10, 30, and 60 mg/kg, i.p., daily after last TAA injection); (6) Dizocilpine (MK-801) + TAA, received MK-801 (2 mg/kg/day, i.p.) 30 m before TAA injection. The spatial memory, BBB permeability, brain edema, liver enzymes, urea, serum and brain total bilirubin, oxidative stress and cytokine markers in the hippocampus were measured. Furthermore, a histological examination of the hippocampus was carried out.

RESULTS

The BBB permeability, brain edema, liver enzymes, urea, total bilirubin levels in serum and hippocampal MDA and TNF-α increased significantly after TAA injection (p < 0.001); the spatial memory was impaired (p < 0.001), and hippocampal IL-10 decreased (p < 0.001). Ber reversed all the above parameters significantly (p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). MK-801 prevented the development of LC via TAA (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Results showed that Ber improves spatial learning and memory in TAA-induced LC by improving the BBB function, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Ber might be a promising therapeutic agent for cognitive improvement in LC.

Spautin-1 administration mitigates mild TBI-induced cognitive and memory dysfunction in mice via activation of caspase-3

BACKGROUND

Cognitive and memory dysfunction, a common sequela of traumatic brain injury (TBI), places a heavy social and economic burden on individuals, families, communities, and countries. Although the potent anti-tumor effects of spautin-1, a novel autophagy inhibitor, have been documented in malignant melanoma, little is known regarding its efficacy on alleviation of cognitive and memory dysfunction. Here, we describe the effect of spautin-1 administration on cognitive and memory impairment post-TBI, and reveal its underlying mechanism of action.

METHODS

We first induced mild TBI in mice through Feeney's weight-drop model, then immediately administered spautin-1 (10 mmol/μl, 2 μl) into the left lateral ventricle. Behavioral and pathological changes were assessed at 24 h, 7 and 30 days after TBI by analyzing neurological severity scores (NSS), novel objective recognition (NOR), Morris water maze (MWM) test, recording of local field potential (LFP), as well as western blot, and immunofluorescence assays.

RESULTS

Mild TBI not only reduced recognition index and times crossing platform, but also aggravated neuronal injury, including reduced MAP2, GAD2, VGlut2, and CHAT intensity. It also elevated activated microglia and CD86-occupied areas in TMEM119-positive cells, but suppressed θ, β, and γ oscillation power in the hippocampal CA1. However, spautin-1 administration significantly reversed these changes, whereas AC-DEVD-CHO an inhibitor of caspase-3 partially blocked the neuroprotective effects of spautin-1.

CONCLUSION

Spautin-1 administration mitigates mild TBI-induced cognitive and memory dysfunction in mice, potentially through activation of caspase-3.

Berberine Alleviates Acute Lung Injury in Septic Mice by Modulating Treg/Th17 Homeostasis and Downregulating NF-κB Signaling

Purpose

A common complication of sepsis is acute lung injury (ALI), which is associated with an acute onset, rapid disease changes, and high mortality. Regulatory T (Treg) and T helper 17 (Th17) cells comprise CD4⁺ T cell subsets, which strongly influence inflammation during ALI. In this study, we investigated the effect of berberine (BBR), an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory drug, on the inflammatory response and immune state in mice with sepsis.

Methods

A mouse model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) was established. The mice were intragastrically administered 50 mg/kg BBR. We used histological techniques to evaluate inflammatory tissue injury and flow cytometry for analyzing Treg/Th17 levels. We also assessed NF-κB signaling pathways by Western blotting assays and immunofluorescence staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to measure the content of cytokines.

Results

Treatment with BBR considerably mitigated lung injury while improving survival, post-cecal ligation, and puncture (CLP). Treatment with BBR ameliorated pulmonary edema and hypoxemia in septic mice and inhibited the NF-κB signaling pathway. BBR also increased Treg cells and decreased Th17 proportions in the spleen and lung tissue of CLP-treated mice. Blocking Treg cells weakened the protective effect of BBR on sepsis-associated lung injury.

Conclusion

Overall, these results suggested that BBR is a potential therapeutic agent for sepsis.

Bioactive components of Banxia Xiexin Decoction for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases based on flavor-oriented analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Banxia Xiexin Decoction (BXD) was first recorded in a Chinese medical classic, Treatise on Febrile Diseases and Miscellaneous Diseases, which was written in the Eastern Han dynasty of China. This ancient prescription consists of seven kinds of Chinese herbal medicine, namely, Pinellia ternata, Rhizoma Coptidis, Radix scutellariae, Rhizoma Zingiberis, Ginseng, Jujube, and Radix Glycyrrhizaepreparata. In clinic practice, its original application in China mainly has focused on the treatment of chronic gastritis for several hundred years. BXD is also effective in treating other gastrointestinal diseases (GIDs) in modern medical application. Despite available literature support and clinical experience, the treatment mechanisms or their relationships with the bioactive compounds in BXD responsible for its pharmacological actions, still need further explorations in more diversified channels. According to the analysis based on the five-flavor theory of TCM, BXD is traditionally viewed as the most representative prescription for pungent-dispersion, bitter-purgation and sweet-tonification. Consequently, based on the flavor-oriented analysis, the compositive herbs in BXD can be divided into three flavor groups, namely, the pungent, bitter, and sweet groups, each of which has specific active ingredients that are possibly relevant to GID treatment.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This paper summarized recent literatures on BXD and its bioactive components used in GID treatment, and provided the pharmacological or chemical basis for the further exploration of the ancient prescription and the relative components.

METHOD

ology: Relevant literature was collected from various electronic databases such as Pubmed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Citations were based on peer-reviewed articles published in English or Chinese during the last decade.

RESULTS

Multiple components were found in the pungent, bitter, and sweet groups in BXD. The corresponding bioactive components include gingerol, shogaol, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol in the pungent group; berberine, palmatine, coptisine, baicalein, and baicalin in the bitter group; and ginsenosides, polysaccharides, liquiritin, and glycyrrhetinic acid in the sweet group. These components have been found directly or indirectly responsible for the remarkable effects of BXD on GID.

CONCLUSION

This review provided some valuable reference to further clarify BXD treatment for GID and their possible material basis, based on the perspective of the flavor-oriented analysis.

Hispidulin Ameliorates Endotoxin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Mice

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an endotoxin that plays a crucial role in septic acute kidney injury (AKI). Hispidulin is a natural flavonoid that possesses various biological activities. Recent studies have shown that hispidulin administration alleviates various inflammatory diseases in animal models. This study aimed to investigate the renoprotective effect of hispidulin on LPS-induced AKI. Male C57BL/6 mice were administered LPS (10 mg/kg) with or without hispidulin (50 mg/kg). Hispidulin administration attenuated renal dysfunction, histological alterations, and the upregulation of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin. This flavonoid also reduced cytokine production and Toll-like receptor 4 expression, inhibited nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades, and alleviated immune cell infiltration. The oxidation of lipids and DNA was also inhibited by hispidulin administration. This antioxidant effect of hispidulin was associated with the downregulation of NADPH oxidase 4, the activation of catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, and the restoration of glutathione levels. Moreover, hispidulin administration attenuated tubular cell apoptosis by inhibiting caspase-3 pathway. These data suggest that hispidulin ameliorates endotoxin-induced kidney injury by suppressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and tubular cell death.

Therapeutic Efficacies of Berberine against Neurological Disorders: An Update of Pharmacological Effects and Mechanisms

Neurological disorders are ranked as the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide, underscoring an urgent necessity to develop novel pharmacotherapies. Berberine (BBR) is a well-known phytochemical isolated from a number of medicinal herbs. BBR has attracted much interest for its broad range of pharmacological actions in treating and/or managing neurological disorders. The discoveries in basic and clinical studies of the effects of BBR on neurological disorders in the last decade have provided novel evidence to support the potential therapeutical efficacies of BBR in treating neurological diseases. In this review, we summarized the pharmacological properties and therapeutic applications of BBR against neurological disorders in the last decade. We also emphasized the major pathways modulated by BBR, which provides firm evidence for BBR as a promising drug candidate for neurological disorders.

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 pros and cons of motor, memory, and emotion-related behavioral tests in the mouse traumatic brain injury model

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a medical emergency with high morbidity and mortality. Motor, memory, and emotion-related deficits are common symptoms following TBI, yet treatment is very limited. To develop new drugs and find new therapeutic avenues, a wide variety of TBI models have been established to mimic the heterogeneity of TBI. In this regard, along with histologic measures, behavioral functional outcomes provide valuable insight into the underlying neuropathology and guide neurorehabilitation efforts for neuropsychiatric impairment after TBI. Development, characterization, and application of behavioral tests that can assess functional neurologic deficits are essential to the development of translational therapies. This comprehensive review aims to summarize 19 common behavioral tests from three aspects (motor, memory, and emotion-related) that are associated with TBI pathology. Discussion covers the apparatus, the test steps, the evaluation indexes, data collection and analysis, animal performance and applications, advantages and disadvantages as well as precautions to eliminate bias wherever possible. We discussed recent studies on TBI-related preconditioning, biomarkers, and optimized behavioral protocols. The neuropsychologic tests employed in clinics were correlated with those used in mouse TBI models. In summary, this review provides a comprehensive, up-to-date reference for TBI researchers to choose the right neurobehavioral protocol according to the research objectives of their translational investigation.

AMPK and its Activator Berberine in the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative disorders are heterogeneous diseases associated with either acute or progressive neurodegeneration, causing the loss of neurons and axons in the central nervous system (CNS), showing high morbidity and mortality, and there are only a few effective therapies. Here, we summarized that the energy sensor adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and its agonist berberine can combat the common underlying pathological events of neurodegeneration, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial disorder, glutamate excitotoxicity, apoptosis, autophagy disorder, and disruption of neurovascular units. The abovementioned effects of berberine may primarily depend on activating AMPK and its downstream targets, such as the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), sirtuin1 (SIRT1), nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor-2 (Nrf2), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK). It is hoped that this review will provide a strong basis for further scientific exploration and development of berberine's therapeutic potential against neurodegeneration.

Berberine Exerts Anti-cancer Activity by Modulating Adenosine Monophosphate- Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and the Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/ Protein Kinase B (PI3K/AKT) Signaling Pathways

Background

The antagonistic relationship between adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling play a vital role in cancer development. The anti-cancer effects of berberine have been reported as a main component of the traditional Chinese medicine Rhizoma coptidis, although the roles of these signaling pathways in these effects have not been systematically reviewed.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed database for studies with keywords including ["berberine"] and ["tumor" or "cancer"] and ["AMPK"] or ["AKT"] published between January 2010 and July 2020, to elucidate the roles of the AMPK and PI3K/AKT pathways and their upstream and downstream targets in the anti-cancer effects of berberine.

RESULTS

The anti-cancer effects of berberine include inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, promotion of apoptosis and autophagy in cancer cells, and prevention of metastasis and angiogenesis. The mechanism of these effects involves multiple cell kinases and signaling pathways, including activation of AMPK and forkhead box transcription factor O3a (FOXO3a), accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inhibition of the activity of PI3K/AKT, rapamycin (mTOR) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Most of these mechanisms converge on regulation of the balance of AMPK and PI3K/AKT signaling by berberine.

CONCLUSION

This evidence supports the possibility that berberine is a promising anti-cancer natural product, with pharmaceutical potential in inhibiting cancer growth, metastasis and angiogenesis via multiple pathways, particularly by regulating the balance of AMPK and PI3K/AKT signaling. However, systematic preclinical studies are still required to provide scientific evidence for further clinical studies.

TMT-based proteomics analysis to screen potential biomarkers of acute-phase TBI in rats

AIMS

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common nervous system injury. However, the detailed mechanisms about functional dysregulation and dignostic biomarkers post-TBI are still unclear. So we aimed to identify potential differentially expressed proteins and genes in TBI for clinical diagnosis and therapeutic purposes.

MAIN METHODS

Rat TBI model was established by the weight-drop method. First, through TMT-proteomics, we screened for the change in the proteins expression profile acute phase post-TBI. The DAVID and Reactome databases were used to analyze and visualize the dysregulation proteins. Then, using publicly available microarray datasets GSE45997, differentially expressed genes (DGEs) were identified for the 24 h post-TBI stage. Also, the proteomic data were compared with microarray data to analyze the similarity.

KEY FINDINGS

We found significant proteomics and transcriptomic changes in post-TBI samples. 989, 881, 832, 1057 proteins were quantitated at 1 h, 6 h, 24 h, and 3 d post-injury correspondingly. Concerning proteomics findings, oxygen transport, acute-phase response, and negative regulation of endopeptidase activity were influenced throughout the acute phrase of TBI. Also, pathways related to scavenging of heme from plasma, binding, and uptake of ligands by scavenger receptors were highly enriched in all time-points of TBI samples.

SIGNIFICANCE

We noticed that the interaction-networks trend to get complicated with more node connections following the progression of TBI. We inferred that Hk-1, PRKAR2A, and MBP could be novel candidate biomarkers related to time-injury in acute-phase TBI. Also, Ceruloplasmin and Complement C3 were found to be important proteins and genes are involved in the TBI.

Berberine Administration in Treatment of Colitis: A Review

Berberine (Brb) is one of the well-known naturally occurring compounds exclusively found in Berberis vulgaris and other members of this family, such as Berberis aristata, Berberis aroatica, and Berberis aquifolium. This plant-derived natural compound has a variety of therapeutic impacts, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-tumor. Multiple studies have demonstrated that Brb has great anti-inflammatory activity and is capable of reducing the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, while it enhances the concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines, making it suitable for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease with chronic nature. Several factors are involved in the development of colitis and it appears that inflammation and oxidative stress are the most important ones. With respect to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Brb, its administration seems to be beneficial in the treatment of colitis. In the present review, the protective effects of Brb in colitis treatment and its impact on molecular pathways are discussed.

Berberine enhances L1 expression and axonal remyelination in rats after brachial plexus root avulsion

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Enhanced remyelination of the regenerated axons results in functional re-innervation and improved functional motor recovery after brachial plexus root avulsion (BPRA). The neural cell adhesion molecule L1 (L1CAM, L1) regulates myelination and promotes regeneration after acute injury in the nervous system. Berberine (BBR) can exert neuroprotective roles against the lesion. Herein, we investigated whether berberine (BBR) can affect the expression of L1 and enhance the axonal remyelination in rats following BPRA.

METHODS

The surgical procedures were performed to build the rat brachial plexus avulsion and re-implantation model, and then, the rats were treated with BBR. After the rehabilitation for 12 weeks, the musculocutaneous nerves were collected for quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot analysis, and histochemical and immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

We observed that, BBR treatment ameliorated the abnormal musculocutaneous nerve fibers morphology, up-regulated the L1 expression, increased the myelination-related genes, decreased the differentiated-associated genes, and up-regulated the phosphorylation of ERK.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that BBR may enhance L1 expression and promote axonal remyelination after spinal root avulsion.

SIRT1 Activation by Natural Phytochemicals: An Overview

Sirtuins are class III histone deacetylases, whose enzymatic activity is dependent on NAD⁺ as a cofactor. Sirtuins are reported to modulate numerous activities by controlling gene expression, DNA repair, metabolism, oxidative stress response, mitochondrial function, and biogenesis. Deregulation of their expression and/or action may lead to tissue-specific degenerative events involved in the development of several human pathologies, including cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease. The most studied member of this class of enzymes is sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), whose expression is associated with increasing insulin sensitivity. SIRT1 has been implicated in both tumorigenic and anticancer processes, and is reported to regulate essential metabolic pathways, suggesting that its activation might be beneficial against disorders of the metabolism. Via regulation of p53 deacetylation and modulation of autophagy, SIRT1 is implicated in cellular response to caloric restriction and lifespan extension. In recent years, scientific interest focusing on the identification of SIRT1 modulators has led to the discovery of novel small molecules targeting SIRT1 activity. This review will examine compounds of natural origin recently found to upregulate SIRT1 activity, such as polyphenolic products in fruits, vegetables, and plants including resveratrol, fisetin, quercetin, and curcumin. We will also discuss the potential therapeutic effects of these natural compounds in the prevention and treatment of human disorders, with particular emphasis on their metabolic impact.

Berberine Facilitates Extinction of Drug-Associated Behavior and Inhibits Reinstatement of Drug Seeking

A high rate of relapse is a major clinical problem among drug-addicted individuals. Persistent traces of drug-associated reward memories contribute to intense craving and often trigger relapse. A number of interventions on drug-associated memories have shown significant benefits in relapse prevention. Among them are pre- or post-extinction pharmacological manipulations that facilitate the extinction of drug-associated behavior. Berberine, a bioactive isoquinoline alkaloid, has been recently reported to provide therapeutic benefits for a number of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including morphine addiction. The present study aimed to investigate whether berberine could serve as a post-extinction pharmacological intervention agent to reduce risks of reinstatement of drug seeking. We found that an intragastric administration of berberine at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg during the critical time window significantly facilitated the extinction of morphine-reward related behavior in free access and confined conditioned place preference (CPP) extinction paradigms, and subsequently, it prevented reinstatement and spontaneous recovery of morphine-induced CPP in mice. Intriguingly, the berberine treatment with or without extinction training altered expression of plasticity-related proteins such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), AMPA receptors (GluA1 and GluA2) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Moreover, the post-extinction berberine treatment significantly reduced reinstatement of cocaine-induced CPP and operant intravenous self-administration (IVSA) memories in rats. Altogether, our findings suggest that extinction training combined with the post-extinction berberine treatment can facilitate extinction of drug-associated behavior making it an attractive therapeutic candidate in relapse prevention.

Aloin Protects Against Blood-Brain Barrier Damage After Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice

Aloin is a small-molecule drug well known for its protective actions in various models of damage. Traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced cerebral edema from secondary damage caused by disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) often leads to an adverse prognosis. Since the role of aloin in maintaining the integrity of the BBB after TBI remains unclear, we explored the protective effects of aloin on the BBB using in vivo and in vitro TBI models. Adult male C57BL/6 mice underwent controlled cortical impact injury, and mouse brain capillary endothelial bEnd.3 cells underwent biaxial stretch injury, then both received aloin treatment. In the animal experiments, we found 20 mg/kg aloin to be the optimum concentration to decrease cerebral edema, decrease disruption of the BBB, and improve neurobehavioral performance after cortical impact injury. In the cellular studies, the optimum concentration of 40 μg/mL aloin reduced apoptosis and reversed the loss of tight junctions by reducing the reactive oxygen species levels and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential after stretch injury. The mechanisms may be that aloin downregulates the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, the activation of p65 nuclear factor-kappa B, and the ratios of B cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2-associated X protein/Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3. We conclude that aloin exhibits these protective effects on the BBB after TBI through its anti-oxidative stress and anti-apoptotic properties in mouse brain capillary endothelial cells. Aloin may thus be a promising therapeutic drug for TBI.

Berberine enhances survival and axonal regeneration of motoneurons following spinal root avulsion and re-implantation in rats

Brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) occurs when the spinal nerve roots are pulled away from the surface of the spinal cord and disconnects neuronal cell body from its distal downstream axon, which induces massive motoneuron death, motor axon degeneration and de-innervation of targeted muscles, thereby resulting in permanent paralysis of motor functions in the upper limb. Avulsion injury triggers oxidative stress and intense local neuroinflammation at the lesioned site, leading to the death of most motoneurons. Berberine (BBR), a natural isoquinoline alkaloid derived from medicinal herbs of Berberis and Coptis species, has been reported to possess neuro-protective, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects in various animal models of central nervous system (CNS)-related disorders. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of BBR on motoneuron survival and axonal regeneration following spinal root avulsion plus re-implantation in rats. Our results indicated BBR significantly accelerated motor function recovery in the forelimb as revealed by the increased Terzis grooming test score, facilitated motor axon regeneration as evidenced by the elevated number of Fluoro-Gold-labeled and P75-positive regenerative motoneurons. The survival of motoneurons was notably promoted by BBR administration presented with boosted ChAT-immunopositive and neutral red-stained neurons. BBR treatment efficiently alleviated muscle atrophy, attenuated functional motor endplates loss in biceps and prevented the reduction of motor axons in the musculocutaneous nerve. Additionally, BBR treatment markedly mitigated the avulsion-induced neuroinflammation via inhibiting microglial and astroglial reactivity, up-regulated the expression of antioxidative indicator Cu/Zn SOD, and down-regulated the levels of nNOS, 3-NT, lipid peroxidation and NF-κB, as well as promoted SIRT1, PI3K and Akt activation. Collectively, BBR might be a promising therapy to assist re-implantation surgery for the treatment of BPA.

Dexmedetomidine Attenuates Neuroinflammatory-Induced Apoptosis after Traumatic Brain Injury via Nrf2 signaling pathway

Objective

Dexmedetomidine (DEX) exhibits neuroprotective effects as a multifunctional neuroprotective agent in numerous neurological disorders. However, in traumatic brain injury (TBI), the molecular mechanisms of these neuroprotective effects remain unclear. The present study investigated whether DEX, which has been reported to exert protective effects against TBI, could attenuate neuroinflammatory‐induced apoptosis and clarified the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

A weight‐drop model was established, and DEX was intraperitoneally injected 30 min after inducing TBI in rats. The water content in the brain tissue was measured. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL) assays were performed on histopathological tissue sections to evaluate neuronal apoptosis. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and PCR were applied to detect the levels of the inflammatory factors, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and NF‐κB.

Results

TBI–challenged rats exhibited significant neuronal apoptosis, which was characterized via the wet‐to‐dry weight ratio, neurobehavioral functions, TUNEL assay results and the levels of cleaved caspase‐3, Bax upregulation and Bcl‐2, which were attenuated by DEX. Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and PCR results revealed that DEX promoted Nrf2 expression and upregulated expression of the Nrf2 downstream factors, HO‐1 and NQO‐1. Furthermore, DEX treatment markedly prevented the downregulation of inflammatory response factors, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and NF‐κB, and IL‐6.

Interpretation

Administering DEX attenuated inflammation‐induced brain injury in a TBI model, potentially via the Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Inhibition of Elevated Hippocampal CD24 Reduces Neurogenesis in Mice With Traumatic Brain Injury

In the adult rodents' brain, CD24 expression is restricted to immature neurons located in the neurogenesis areas. Our previous studies have confirmed that CD24 expression could be markedly elevated in the cerebral cortex after traumatic brain injury (TBI) both in humans and in mice. Although there is a close relationship between CD24 and neurogenesis, it remains unknown about the specific role of CD24 in neurogenesis areas after TBI. Here, the expression of CD24 was detected in the ipsilateral hippocampus by the Western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RNA interference was applied to investigate the effects of CD24 on post-traumatic neurogenesis. Brain sections were labeled with CD24 and doublecortin (DCX) via immunofluorescence. The Morris water maze test was used to assess cognitive functions. The results indicated that both mRNA and protein levels of CD24 were markedly elevated in the hippocampus after TBI. Meanwhile, TBI could cause a decrease of DCX-positive cells in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Downregulation of CD24 significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of Src homology region 2-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 in the ipsilateral hippocampus. Meanwhile, inhibition of CD24 could reduce the number of DCX-positive cells in the dentate gyrus area and impair cognitive functions of the TBI mice. These data suggested that hippocampal expression of CD24 might positively regulate neurogenesis and improve cognitive functions after TBI.

A Natural Isoquinoline Alkaloid With Antitumor Activity: Studies of the Biological Activities of Berberine

Coptis, a traditional medicinal plant, has been used widely in the field of traditional Chinese medicine for many years. More recently, the chemical composition and bioactivity of Coptis have been studied worldwide. Berberine is a main component of Rhizoma Coptidis. Modern medicine has confirmed that berberine has pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, hypolipidemic, and blood pressure-lowering effects. Importantly, the active ingredient of berberine has clear inhibitory effects on various cancers, including colorectal cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer, and cervical cancer. Cancer, ranked as one of the world’s five major incurable diseases by WHO, is a serious threat to the quality of human life. Here, we try to outline how berberine exerts antitumor effects through the regulation of different molecular pathways. In addition, the berberine-mediated regulation of epigenetic mechanisms that may be associated with the prevention of malignant tumors is described. Thus, this review provides a theoretical basis for the biological functions of berberine and its further use in the clinical treatment of cancer.

Berberine ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced learning and memory deficit in the rat: insights into underlying molecular mechanisms

Systemic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) triggers neuroinflammation with consequent development of behavioral and cognitive deficits. Neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid in Berberis genus with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property and protective effects in neurodegenerative disorders. In this research, beneficial effect of this alkaloid against LPS-induced cognitive decline was assessed in the adult male rats. LPS was intraperitoneally administered at a dose of 1 mg/kg to induce neuroinflammation and berberine was given via gavage at doses of 10 or 50 mg/kg, one h after LPS, for 7 days. Treatment of LPS group with berberine at a dose of 50 mg/kg (but not at a dose of 10 mg/kg) improved spatial recognition memory in Y maze, performance in novel object recognition task (NORT), and prevented learning and memory dysfunction in passive avoidance tasks. Furthermore, berberine lowered hippocampal activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl, activity of caspase 3, and DNA fragmentation and improved antioxidant capacity through enhancing glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione (GSH). Besides, berberine attenuated inflammation-related indices, as was evident by lower levels of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Berberine also appropriately restored hippocampal 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox 2), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), sirtuin 1, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) with no significant alteration of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In summary, berberine could partially ameliorate LPS-induced cognitive deficits via partial suppression of apoptotic cascade, neuroinflammation, oxido-nitrosative stress, AChE, MAPK, and restoration of sirtuin 1.