Berberine improves glucose metabolism in diabetic rats by inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis. PLoS One. 2011;6:e16556. [PMID: 21304897 PMCID: PMC3033390 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016556]

Berberine enhances the function of intestinal stem cells in healthy and radiation-injured mice

Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) are pivotal for the maintenance and regeneration of the intestinal epithelium. Berberine (BBR) exhibits diverse biological activities, but it remains unclear whether BBR can modulate ISCs' function. Therefore, we investigated the effects of BBR on ISCs in healthy and radiation-injured mice and explored the potential underlying mechanisms involved. The results showed that BBR significantly increased the length of the small intestines, the height of the villi, and the depth and density of the crypts, promoted the proliferation of cryptal epithelial cells and increased the number of OLFM4+ ISCs and goblet cells. Crypts from the BBR-treated mice were more capable of growing into enteroids than those from untreated mice. BBR alleviated WAI-induced intestinal injury. BBR suppressed the apoptosis of crypt epithelial cells, increased the quantity of goblet cells, and increased the quantity of OLFM4+ ISCs and tdTomato+ progenies of ISCs after 8 Gy WAI-induced injury. Mechanistically, BBR treatment caused a significant increase in the quantity of p-S6, p-STAT3 and p-ERK1/2 positive cryptal epithelial cells under physiological conditions and after WAI-induced injury. In conclusion, BBR is capable of enhancing the function of ISCs either physiologically or after radiation-induced injury, indicating that BBR has potential value in the treatment of radiation-induced intestinal injury.

Study of the antidiabetic mechanism of berberine compound on FOXO1 transcription factor through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations

CONTEXT

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder disease that causes hyperglycemia conditions and associated with various chronic complications leading to mortality. Due to high toxicity of conventional diabetic drugs, the exploration of natural compounds as alternative diabetes treatments has been widely carried out. Previous in silico studies have highlighted berberine, a natural compound, as a promising alternative in antidiabetic therapy, potentially acting through various pathways, including the inhibition of the FOXO1 transcription factor in the gluconeogenesis pathway. However, the specific mechanism by which berberine interacts with FOXO1 remains unclear, and research in this area is relatively limited. Therefore, this study aims to determine the stability of berberine structure with FOXO1 based on RMSD, RMSF, binding energy, and trajectory analysis to determine the potential of berberine to inhibit the gluconeogenesis pathway. This research was conducted by in silico method with molecular docking using AutoDock4.2 and molecular dynamics study using Amber20, then visualized by VMD.

METHODS

Docking between ligand and FOXO1 receptor was carried out with Autodock4.2. For molecular dynamics simulations, the force fields of DNA.OL15, protein.ff14SB, gaff2, and tip3p were used.

Research progress on pharmacological effects and bioavailability of berberine

Berberine (BBR), a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid obtained from natural medicines such as coptidis rhizoma, has a wide range of pharmacological activities such as protecting the nervous system, protecting the cardiovascular system, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antitumor, antibacterial, and antidiarrheal. However, factors such as poor solubility, low permeability, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux, and hepatic-intestinal metabolism result in BBR having a low bioavailability (< 1%), which restricts its application in clinical settings. Therefore, improving its bioavailability is a prerequisite for its clinical applications. This review summarizes the various pharmacological effects of BBR and analyzes the main reasons for its poor bioavailability. It introduces methods to improve the bioavailability of BBR through the use of absorption enhancers and P-gp inhibitors, structural modification of BBR, and preparation of BBR salts and cocrystals as well as the development of new formulations and focuses on the bioavailability study of the new formulations of BBR. The research of BBR was also prospected in order to provide reference for the further research of BBR.

The therapeutic potential of typical plant-derived compounds for the management of metabolic disorders

Obesity and Type 2 diabetes are prevalent metabolic dysfunctions that present significant health challenges worldwide. Available cures for these ailments have constraints with accompanying unwanted effects that persistently exist. Compounds originated from plants have recently been introduced as hopeful remedies to treat metabolic disorders because of their diverse pharmacological activities. This detailed observation gives an introduction into the treatment capacity of plant-derived compounds regarding metabolic syndromes while analyzing various groups alongside their performance in this field despite unique mechanisms designed by nature itself. Interestingly, this study provides some examples including curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, berberine, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and capsaicin, which highlights potential therapeutic impacts for future testing. However, current clinical trials inspecting human studies investigating efficacies concerning metabolism challenge present limitations. Finally, the review weighs up bad reactions possibly inflicted after administering plant-originated materials though suggestive insights will be provided later. Above all, it outlines the chance to identify novel therapies encapsulated within natural substances based upon recent developments could hold significant promise toward managing misplaced metabolisms globally.

The Supplementation of Berberine in High-Carbohydrate Diets Improves Glucose Metabolism of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) via Transcriptome, Bile Acid Synthesis Gene Expression and Intestinal Flora

Berberine is an alkaloid used to treat diabetes. This experiment aimed to investigate the effects of berberine supplementation in high-carbohydrate diets on the growth performance, glucose metabolism, bile acid synthesis, liver transcriptome, and intestinal flora of Nile tilapia. The six dietary groups were the C group with 29% carbohydrate, the H group with 44% carbohydrate, and the HB1-HB4 groups supplemented with 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg of berberine in group H. The results of the 8-week trial showed that compared to group C, the abundance of Bacteroidetes was increased in group HB2 (p < 0.05). The cholesterol-7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and sterol-27-hydroxylase (CYP27A1) activities were decreased and the expression of FXR was increased in group HB4 (p < 0.05). The pyruvate carboxylase (PC) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activities was decreased in group HB4 (p < 0.05). The liver transcriptome suggests that berberine affects carbohydrate metabolic pathways and primary bile acid synthesis pathways. In summary, berberine affects the glucose metabolism in tilapia by altering the intestinal flora structure, enriching differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the bile acid pathway to stimulate bile acid production so that it promotes glycolysis and inhibits gluconeogenesis. Therefore, 100 mg/kg of berberine supplementation in high-carbohydrate diets is beneficial to tilapia.

Berberine ameliorates glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia: an in vitro and in vivo study

Berberine (BBR), a bioactive compound isolated from Coptidis Rhizoma, possesses diverse pharmacological activities including anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, hypolipidemic, and anti-diabetic. However, its role as an anti-diabetic agent in animal models of dexamethasone (Dex)-induced diabetes remains unknown. Studies have shown that natural compounds including aloe, caper, cinnamon, cocoa, green and black tea, and turmeric can be used for treating Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Compared to conventional drugs, natural compounds have less side effects and are easily available. Herein, we studied the anti-diabetic effects of BBR in a mice model of Dex-induced diabetes. HepG2 cell line was used for glucose release and glycogen synthesis studies. Cell proliferation was measured by methylthiotetrazole (MTT) assay. For animal studies, mice were treated with Dex (2 mg/kg, i.m.) for 30 days and effect of BBR at the doses 100, 200, and 500 mg/kg (p.o.) was analyzed. Glucose, insulin, and pyruvate tests were performed for evaluating the development of the diabetic model. Echo MRI was performed to assess the fat mass. Further, to elucidate the mechanism of action of BBR, mRNA expression of genes regulating gluconeogenesis, glucose uptake, and glycolysis was analyzed. In vitro BBR had no impact on cell viability up to a concentration of 50 μM. Moreover, BBR suppressed the hepatic glucose release and improved glucose tolerance in HepG2 cells. In vivo, BBR improved glucose homeostasis in diabetic mice as evidenced by enhanced glucose clearance, increased glycolysis, elevated glucose uptake, and decreased gluconeogenesis. Further, Dex treatment increased the total fat mass in mice, which was ameliorated by BBR treatment. BBR improves glucose tolerance by increasing glucose clearance, inhibiting hepatic glucose release, and decreasing obesity. Thus, BBR may become a potential therapeutic agent for treating glucocorticoid-induced diabetes and obesity in the future.

Nano-Stevia reduces the liver injury caused by streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in rats by targeting PEPCK/GCK genes, INSR pathway and apoptosis

Objectives

Extensive application of stevia in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) has been proven by a large number of previous studies. We prepared stevia loaded in nanoniosomes (nanostevia) to improve its bioavailability, functionality, and stability and explore its protective effects and underlying mechanisms in the liver of STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Methods

Single-dose intraperitoneal injection of STZ (50 mg/kg body weight) was used to establish diabetic model. The mRNA levels of PEPCK and GCK genes and the protein level of INSR were evaluated by Real time-PCR and Western blot assays, respectively. TUNEL assay was used to detect apoptotic cell death in the liver tissue.

Results

Diabetic rats exhibited significantly reduced levels of INSR (*** P < 0.001) as well as elevated levels of PEPCK (*** P < 0.001). Both stevia and nano-stevia were capable of increasing levels of GCK and INSR and reducing levels of PEPCK (## P < 0.01 and ### P < 0.001, respectively). In addition, significantly increased number of apoptotic cell death was seen in the liver tissue of diabetic rats (*** P < 0.001) which was markedly mitigated by treatment with both Stevia and nano-Stevia (#P < 0.05 and ## P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion

Both stevia and nano-stevia demonstrates potent anti-apoptotic activity in the liver tissue of diabetic rats by targeting PEPCK/GCK genes and INSR pathway. These finding show that nano-stevia has more potential to reduce the liver injury caused by STZ-induced diabetes in rats and hence can be considered a valid agent and alternative therapy for attenuating complications of type 2 DM.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-023-01278-2.

Berberine-induced glucagon-like peptide-1 and its mechanism for controlling type 2 diabetes mellitus: a comprehensive pathway review

Introduction: A growing number of studies have thus far showed the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and the intestinal microbiome homoeostasis. As reported, the gut microflora can be significantly different in patients with type 2 DM (T2DM) compared to those in healthy individuals.Methods: The authors collected the relevant articles published until 2022 and these are carefully selected from three scientific databases based on keywords.Discussion: This review highlights research on the anti-diabetic properties of berberine (BBR)-induced glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), as a glucose-lowering factor and a balance regulator in the microbial flora of the intestines, which plays an important role in adjusting the signalling pathways affecting insulin secretion.Results: Considering the anti-diabetic characteristics of the BBR-induced GLP-1, BBR makes a promising complementary treatment for reducing the clinical symptoms of DM by reducing the hyperglycaemia. Berberin might be a safe and effective drug for T2DM with little or no adverse effects.HighlightsBerberine induces GLP-1 insulin secretion by PLC2 pathway in the intestinalBerberine-induced GLP-1 decreases mitochondrial stress and relocates cytochrome c out of the mitochondria.Berberine induces GLP-1 secretion in the intestine by altering the bacterial profile, thus could possibly lighten diabetes symptomsBerberine-induced SCFA production, SCFA causes GLP-1 secretion from the intestinal L-Cell.Preventing mitochondrial damage, reducing adipose tissue fat, and reducing oxidative stress are thus among the results of BBR-induced GLP-1.The lower costs of BBR, and its limited side effects and higher availability, make it a promising supplementary medicine for DM.

Addressing the preventive and therapeutic perspective of berberine against diabetes

Diabetes has emerged as one the leading detrimental factors for human life expectancy worldwide. The disease is mainly considered as outcome of dysregulation in glucose metabolism, resulting in consistent high glucose concentration in blood. At initial stages, the diabetes particularly type 2 diabetes, is manageable by lifestyle interventions such as regular physical activity and diet with less carbohydrates. However, in advance stage, regular intake of external insulin dose and medicines like metformin are recommended. The long-term consumption of metformin is associated with several side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, lectic acidosis etc., In this scenario, several plant-based medicines have shown promising potential for the prevention and treatment of diabetes. Berberine is the bioactive compound present in the different plant parts of berberis family. Biochemical studies have shown that berberine improve insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion. Additionally, berberine induces glucose metabolism by activating AMPK signaling and inhibition of inflammation. A series of studies have demonstrated the antidiabetic potential of berberine at in vitro, pre-clinical and clinical trials. This review provides comprehensive details of preventive and therapeutic potential of berberine against diabetes.

Berberine and Its Study as an Antidiabetic Compound

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that causes hyperglycemia conditions and leads to various chronic complications that causes death. The prevalence of diabetes is predicted to continue to increase, and with the high toxicity levels of current diabetes drugs, the exploration of natural compounds as alternative diabetes treatment has been widely carried out, one of which is berberine. Berberine and several other alkaloid compounds, including some of its derivatives, have shown many bioactivities, such as neuraminidase and hepatoprotective activity. Berberine also exhibits antidiabetic activity. As an antidiabetic compound, berberine is known to reduce blood glucose levels, increase insulin secretion, and weaken glucose tolerance and insulin resistance by activating the AMPK pathway. Apart from being an antidiabetic compound, berberine also exhibits various other activities such as being anti-adipogenic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. Many studies have been conducted on berberine, but its exact mechanism still needs to be clarified and requires further investigation. This review will discuss berberine and its mechanism as a natural compound with various activities, mainly as an antidiabetic.

Liposome-Encapsulated Berberine Alleviates Liver Injury in Type 2 Diabetes via Promoting AMPK/mTOR-Mediated Autophagy and Reducing ER Stress: Morphometric and Immunohistochemical Scoring

In the advanced stages of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), diabetic liver damage is a common complication that can devastate a patient's quality of life. The present study investigated the ability of liposomal berberine (Lip-BBR) to aid in ameliorating hepatic damage and steatosis, insulin homeostasis, and regulating lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and the possible pathways by which it does so. Liver tissue microarchitectures and immunohistochemical staining were applied during the study. The rats were divided into a control non-diabetic group and four diabetic groups, which are the T2DM, T2DM-Lip-BBR (10 mg/kg b.wt), T2DM-Vildagliptin (Vild) (10 mg/kg b.wt), and T2DM-BBR-Vild (10 mg/kg b.wt + Vild (5 mg/kg b.wt) groups. The findings demonstrated that Lip-BBR treatment could restore liver tissue microarchitectures, reduce steatosis and liver function, and regulate lipid metabolism. Moreover, Lip-BBR treatment promoted autophagy via the activation of LC3-II and Bclin-1 proteins and activated the AMPK/mTOR pathway in the liver tissue of T2DM rats. Lip-BBR also activated the GLP-1 expression, which stimulated insulin biosynthesis. It decreased the endoplasmic reticulum stress by limiting the CHOP, JNK expression, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Collectively, Lip-BBR ameliorated diabetic liver injury in a T2DM rat model with its promotion activity of AMPK/mTOR-mediated autophagy and limiting ER stress.

Role of Fenugreek, Cinnamon, Curcuma longa, Berberine and Momordica charantia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treatment: A Review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex disease that has become a major global health concern. Given the efficacy of antidiabetic drugs, pharmacological therapy is considered the first-line treatment of T2DM; however, due to their potential side effects and high costs, new and cost-effective treatments with minimal side effects are needed. Medicinal plants have been used for centuries as part of traditional medicine to treat T2DM. Among these, fenugreek, cinnamon, Curcuma longa, berberine, and Momordica charantia have demonstrated different degrees of hypoglycemic activity in clinical studies and animal models. Therefore, the aim of this review is to synthesize the mechanisms of action of five medicinal plants, as well as the experimental and clinical evidence of their hypoglycemic activity from the published literature.

Nanoparticles loaded with pharmacologically active plant-derived natural products: Biomedical applications and toxicity

Pharmacologically active natural products have played a significant role in the history of drug development. They have acted as sources of therapeutic drugs for various diseases such as cancer and infectious diseases. However, most natural products suffer from poor water solubility and low bioavailability, limiting their clinical applications. The rapid development of nanotechnology has opened up new directions for applying natural products and numerous studies have explored the biomedical applications of nanomaterials loaded with natural products. This review covers the recent research on applying plant-derived natural products (PDNPs) nanomaterials, including nanomedicines loaded with flavonoids, non-flavonoid polyphenols, alkaloids, and quinones, especially their use in treating various diseases. Furthermore, some drugs derived from natural products can be toxic to the body, so the toxicity of them is discussed. This comprehensive review includes fundamental discoveries and exploratory advances in natural product-loaded nanomaterials that may be helpful for future clinical development.

A Review of Fibraurea tinctoria and Its Component, Berberine, as an Antidiabetic and Antioxidant

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia caused by resistance to insulin action, inadequate insulin secretion, or excessive glucagon production. Numerous studies have linked diabetes mellitus and oxidative stress. People with diabetes usually exhibit high oxidative stress due to persistent and chronic hyperglycemia, which impairs the activity of the antioxidant defense system and promotes the formation of free radicals. Recently, several studies have focused on exploring natural antioxidants to improve diabetes mellitus. Fibraurea tinctoria has long been known as the native Borneo used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes. Taxonomically, this plant is part of the Menispermaceae family, widely known for producing various alkaloids. Among them are protoberberine alkaloids such as berberine. Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid with many pharmacological activities. Berberine is receiving considerable interest because of its antidiabetic and antioxidant activities, which are based on many biochemical pathways. Therefore, this review explores the pharmacological effects of Fibraurea tinctoria and its active constituent, berberine, against oxidative stress and diabetes, emphasizing its mechanistic aspects. This review also summarizes the pharmacokinetics and toxicity of berberine and in silico studies of berberine in several diseases and its protein targets.

Vulgarin, a Sesquiterpene Lactone from Artemisia judaica, Improves the Antidiabetic Effectiveness of Glibenclamide in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats via Modulation of PEPCK and G6Pase Genes Expression

The current investigation assessed the effect of the eudesmanolid, Vulgarin (VGN), obtained from Artemisia judaica (A. judaica), on the antidiabetic potential of glibenclamide (GLB) using streptozotocin (STZ) to induce diabetes. Seven groups of rats were used in the study; the first group received the vehicle and served as normal control. The diabetic rats of the second to the fifth groups were treated with the vehicle (negative control), GLB at 5 mg/kg (positive control), VGN at 10 mg/kg (VGN-10) and VGN at 20 mg/kg (VGN-20), respectively. The diabetic rats of the sixth and seventh groups were administered combinations of GLB plus VGN-10 and GLB plus VGN-20, respectively. The diabetic rats treated with GLB plus VGN-20 combination showed marked improvement in the fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), as well as the lipid profile, compared with those treated with GLB alone. Further, the pancreatic tissues of the diabetic rats that received the GLB+VGN-20 combination showed superior improvements in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant parameters than those of GLB monotherapy. The insulin content of the β-cells was restored in all treatments, while the levels of glucagon and somatostatin of the α- and δ-endocrine cells were reduced in the pancreatic islets. In addition, the concurrent administration of GLB+VGN-20 was the most effective in restoring PEPCK and G6Pase mRNA expression in the liver. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that the GLB+VGN-20 combination led to greater glycemic improvement in diabetic rats compared with GLB monotherapy through its antioxidant effect and capability to modulate PEPCK and G6Pase gene expression in their livers.

Role of potential bioactive metabolites from traditional Chinese medicine for type 2 diabetes mellitus: An overview

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease with persistent hyperglycemia primarily caused by insulin resistance (IR). The number of diabetic patients globally has been rising over the past decades. Although significant progress has been made in treating diabetes mellitus (DM), existing clinical drugs for diabetes can no longer fully meet patients when they face complex and huge clinical treatment needs. As a traditional and effective medical system, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a unique understanding of diabetes treatment and has developed many classic and practical prescriptions targeting DM. With modern medicine and pharmacy advancements, researchers have discovered that various bioactive metabolites isolated from TCM show therapeutic on DM. Compared with existing clinical drugs, these bioactive metabolites demonstrate promising prospects for treating DM due to their excellent biocompatibility and fewer adverse reactions. Accordingly, these valuable metabolites have attracted the interest of researchers worldwide. Despite the abundance of research works and specialized-topic reviews published over the past years, there is a lack of updated and systematic reviews concerning this fast-growing field. Therefore, in this review, we summarized the bioactive metabolites derived from TCM with the potential treatment of T2DM by searching several authoritative databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, and Springer Link. For the convenience of readers, the content is divided into four parts according to the structural characteristics of these valuable compounds (flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and others). Meanwhile, the detailed mechanism and future directions of these promising compounds curing DM are also summarized in the related sections. We hope this review inspires increasingly valuable and significant research focusing on potential bioactive metabolites from TCM to treat DM in the future.

Study of Hypoglycemic Activity of Novel 9-N-alkyltetrahydroberberine Derivatives

Novel 9-N-alkyltetrahydroberberine derivatives were synthesized, among which, based on the results of OGTT, one compound containing the longest aliphatic substituent was selected for study in mice C57BL/6^Ay, which demonstrate obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, and concomitant liver non-alcoholic fatty disease. Administration of this substance at a dose of 15 mg/kg for four weeks improved the insulin sensitivity of mice, which resulted in a decrease in fasting glucose levels and improved the tolerance of mice to OGTT glucose loading. A decrease in the level of lactate in the blood and a decrease in the amount of glucokinase in the liver were also found. The introduction of compound 3c did not have a toxic effect on animals based on biochemical data, histological analysis, and measurements of general parameters such as body weight and feed intake. Thus, the 9-N-heptyltetrahydroberberine derivative showed prominent hypoglycemic effects, which makes it promising to obtain and study other derivatives with longer substituents.

Effects of dietary inclusion of Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels on streptozotocin/HFD type-2 induced diabetes mellitus complications and related biochemical parameters

The effects of dietary inclusion of Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels composite bread on low-dose streptozotocin and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) complications was evaluated in the present study. Male experimental rats-induced T2D were administered with acarbose (standard) and fed with Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels composite bread for a period of 14 days while monitoring their blood glucose levels. More so, the activities of angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE), serum aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase activities, as well as nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS), albumin, total bilirubin, creatinine, urea, and uric acid serum concentrations were assayed for. Diabetic untreated rats showed disorders in ACE, AST, ALT, and ALP activities, and NO, ROS, glucose, albumin, bilirubin, creatinine, urea, uric acid levels, as well as lipid profiles. Interestingly, these disorders were significantly ameliorated in composite bread diet-fed rats in comparison to the diabetic untreated rats. Meanwhile, the presence of polyphenols in the Bambara groundnut and sweet orange peels composite bread diet could have aided the amelioration of these metabolic disorders after the 14th day of administration. Finally, it was proposed that the ability of Bambara groundnut-wheat and sweet orange peel composite bread to treat T2D and its complications makes it a more successful therapy than medications that just target one of the diseased states. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Diabetes mellitus is a global and chronic disease that presently affects 536.6 million people alongside 1.5 million deaths directly attributed to it yearly. Several drug and medicinal agents have been employed for the management of diabetes but those drugs are mostly limited to the management of diabetes while the associated complications are most untreated, while drugs that can manage diabetes and its related complications mostly come at high prices. Therefore, there is an urgent need to evaluate legumes, such as Bambara groundnut, with proven therapeutic potential in the management of diabetes and its complications. However, the Bambara groundnut takes a long period to prepare for a meal, therefore including it in a ready-to-eat product will not only improve its acceptability but also add to economic improvement. Furthermore, adding a waste product, sweet orange peels, will both add flavor and source of additional antioxidant attributes.

Annona muricata L. peel extract inhibits carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes and reduces pancreatic β-cells, inflammation, and apoptosis via upregulation of PI3K/AKT genes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Annona muricata L. peel has been recognized for many ethnobotanical uses, including diabetes management. However, limited detailed scientific information about its mechanism of antidiabetic activity exists. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-diabetic properties of an aqueous extract of A. muricata peel (AEAMP) and its mechanism of action on alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

In vitro antidiabetic assays, such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase were analyzed on AEAMP. Alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg b.w) was used to induce diabetes in the rats. 150 mg/kg b.w positive control group doses of 6.67, 13.53, and 27.06 mg/kg were administered to 3 groups for twenty-one days. The positive control group was administered 30 mg/kg of metformin. The negative and normal control groups were administered distilled water. The fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, lipid profile, inflammatory cytokines, antioxidant markers, carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, and liver glycogen were analyzed as well as PI3K/AKT and apoptotic markers PCNA and Bcl2 by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

AEAMP inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes more effectively than acarbose. AEAMP reduced FBG levels, HOMA-IR, G6P, F-1,6-BP, MDA, TG, TC, AI, CRI, IL-6, TNF-α, and NF-κB in diabetic rats. Furthermore, in diabetic rats, AEAMP improved serum insulin levels, HOMA-β, hexokinase, CAT, GST, and HDL-c. Liver PI3K, liver PCNA and pancreas PCNA were not significantly different in untreated diabetic rats when compared to normal rats suggesting alloxan induction of diabetes did not downregulate the mRNA expression of these genes. AEAMP significantly up-regulated expression of AKT and Bcl2 in the liver and pancreatic tissue. It is interesting that luteolin and resorcinol were among the constituents of AEAMP.

CONCLUSIONS

AEAMP can improve β-cell dysfunction by upregulating liver AKT and pancreatic PI3K and AKT genes, inhibiting carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes and preventing apoptosis by upregulating liver and pancreatic Bcl2. However, the potential limitation of this study is the unavailability of equipment and techniques for collecting more data for the study.

Berberine mitigates hepatic insulin resistance by enhancing mitochondrial architecture via the SIRT1/Opa1 signalling pathway

The aberrant changes of fussion/fission-related proteins can trigger mitochondrial dynamics imbalance, which cause mitochondrial dysfunctions and result insulin resistance (IR). However, the relationship between the inner mitochondrial membrane fusion protein optic atrophy 1 (Opa1) and hepatic IR as well as the specific molecular mechanisms of signal transduction has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we explore whether abnormalities in the Opa1 cause hepatic IR and whether berberine (BBR) can prevent hepatic IR through the SIRT1/Opa1 signalling pathway. High-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice and db/db mice are used as animal models to study hepatic IR in vivo. IR, morphological changes, and mitochondrial injury of the liver are examined to explore the effects of BBR. SIRT1/Opa1 protein expression is determined to confirm whether the signalling pathway is damaged in the model animals and is involved in BBR treatment-mediated mitigation of hepatic IR. A palmitate (PA)-induced hepatocyte IR model is established in HepG2 cells in vitro. Opa1 silencing and SIRT1 overexpression are induced to verify whether Opa1 deficiency causes hepatocyte IR and whether SIRT1 improves this dysfunction. BBR treatment and SIRT1 silencing are employed to confirm that BBR can prevent hepatic IR by activating the SIRT1/Opa1 signalling pathway. Western blot analysis and JC-1 fluorescent staining results show that Opa1 deficiency causes an imbalance in mitochondrial fusion/fission and impairs insulin signalling in HepG2 cells. SIRT1 and BBR overexpression ameliorates PA-induced IR, increases Opa1, and improves mitochondrial function. SIRT1 silencing partly reverses the effects of BBR on HepG2 cells. SIRT1 and Opa1 expressions are downregulated in the animal models. BBR attenuates hepatic IR and enhances SIRT1/Opa1 signalling in db/db mice. In summary, Opa1 silencing-mediated mitochondrial fusion/fission imbalance could lead to hepatocyte IR. BBR may improve hepatic IR by regulating the SIRT1/Opa1 signalling pathway, and thus, it may be used to treat type-2 diabetes.

The role of selected nutraceuticals in management of prediabetes and diabetes: An updated review of the literature

Dysglycemia is a disease state preceding the onset of diabetes and includes impaired fasting glycemia and impaired glucose tolerance. This review aimed to collect and analyze the literature reporting the results of clinical trials evaluating the effects of selected nutraceuticals on glycemia in humans. The results of the analyzed trials, generally, showed the positive effects of the nutraceuticals studied alone or in association with other supplements on fasting plasma glucose and post-prandial plasma glucose as primary outcomes, and their efficacy in improving insulin resistance as a secondary outcome. Some evidences, obtained from clinical trials, suggest a role for some nutraceuticals, and in particular Berberis, Banaba, Curcumin, and Guar gum, in the management of prediabetes and diabetes. However, contradictory results were found on the hypoglycemic effects of Morus, Ilex paraguariensis, Omega-3, Allium cepa, and Trigonella faenum graecum, whereby rigorous long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm these data. More studies are also needed for Eugenia jambolana, as well as for Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus which glucose-lowering effects were observed when administered in combination, but not alone. Further trials are also needed for quercetin.

The short-term effects of berberine in the liver: Narrow margins between benefits and toxicity

Berberine is a plant alkaloid to which antihyperglycemic properties have been attributed. It is also known as an inhibitor of mitochondrial functions. In this work short-term translation of the latter effects on hepatic metabolism were investigated using the isolated perfused rat liver. Once-through perfusion with a buffered saline solution was done. At low portal concentrations berberine modified several metabolic pathways. It inhibited hepatic gluconeogenesis, increased glycolysis, inhibited ammonia detoxification, increased the cytosolic NADH/NAD⁺ ratio and diminished the ATP levels. Respiration of intact mitochondria was impaired as well as the mitochondrial pyruvate carboxylation activity. These results can be regarded as evidence that the direct inhibitory effects of berberine on gluconeogenesis, mediated by both energy metabolism and pyruvate carboxylation inhibition, represent most likely a significant contribution to its clinical efficacy as an antihyperglycemic agent. However, safety concerns also arise because all effects occur at similar concentrations and there is a narrow margin between the expected benefits and toxicity. Even mild inhibition of gluconeogenesis is accompanied by diminutions in oxygen uptake and ammonia detoxification and increases in the NADH/NAD⁺ ratio. All combined, desired and undesired effects could well in the end represent a deleterious combination of events leading to disruption of cellular homeostasis.

In Vitro and In Vivo Sucrosomial® Berberine Activity on Insulin Resistance

Background: Berberine is a natural alkaloid with hypoglycemic properties. However, its therapeutic use is limited by a very low oral bioavailability. Here we developed a new oral formulation of berberine based on Sucrosomial^® technology and tested its effect on insulin resistance. Methods: Sucrosomial^® berberine was first tested in vitro in the hepatoma cell line Huh7 to assess its effect on proteins involved in glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance. The pharmacokinetics and efficacy on insulin resistance were then studied in C57BL/6 mice fed with standard (SD) and high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks and treated daily during the last 8 weeks with oral gavage of Sucrosomial^® berberine or berberine. Results: Sucrosomial^® berberine did not affect Huh7 cell viability at concentrations up to 40 µM. Incubation of Huh7 with 20 µM of Sucrosomial^® and control berberine induced glucokinase (GK) and the phosphorylation of 5′-adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), both known targets for the control of insulin resistance. In vivo, we observed an 8-fold higher plasma concentration after 3 weeks of oral administration of 50 mg/kg/day of Sucrosomial^® formulation compared to berberine. HFD, compared to SD, induced insulin resistance in mice as determined by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The treatment with a 6.25 mg/kg/daily dose of Sucrosomial^® berberine significantly reduced the area under the curve (AUC) of OGTT (73,103 ± 8645 vs. 58,830 ± 5597 mg/dL × min), while control berberine produced the same effects at 50 mg/Kg/day (51518 ± 1984 mg/dL × min). Under these conditions, the two formulations resulted in similar berberine plasma concentration in mice. Nevertheless, a different tissue distribution of metabolites was observed with a significant accumulation of reduced, demethylated and glucuronide berberine in the brain after the oral administration of the Sucrosomial^® form. Glucuronide berberine plasma concentration was higher with Sucrosomial^® berberine compared to normal berberine. Finally, we observed similar increases of AMPK phosphorylation in the liver in response to the treatment with Sucrosomial^® berberine and berberine. Conclusions: The Sucrosomial^® formulation is an innovative and effective technology to improve berberine gastrointestinal (GI) absorption with proven in vitro and in vivo activity on insulin resistance.

Berberine in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease—A Review

The incidence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has been rapidly increasing during the last decade. It is a relevant health problem that affects 25% of the general population. NAFLD involves an extensive array of clinical conditions. So far, no approved pharmacological therapy for NAFLD has been developed. Multiple bioactive compounds have been proposed to treat NAFLD. One of the most promising is Berberine (BBR). Its pleiotropic effect positively impacts various cardiometabolic aspects. In this review, we summarize NAFLD, its metabolic and cardiovascular complications, the hepatoprotective effects of BBR due to its broad spectrum of pharmacological effects, and the potential role of BBR in NAFLD therapy. BBR ameliorates NAFLD by affecting numerous abnormalities. It inhibits lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis, improves insulin resistance and lipid profile, and modulates gut microbiota. The exact mechanism underlying these effects is not yet entirely explained. A growing amount of evidence confirming the positive effects of BBR on multiple metabolic pathways, such as lipids and glucose metabolism, energy homeostasis, or gut microbiota modulation, allows us to speculate about the importance of this natural bioactive substance for NAFLD therapy.

Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms and Effects of Berberine on Obesity-Induced Inflammation

Obesity represents chronic low-grade inflammation that precipitates type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Berberine (BBR) has been reported to exert anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory benefits. We aimed to demonstrate the underlying immune-modulating mechanisms of anti-obesity effects of BBR. First, we performed in silico study to identify therapeutic targets, describe potential pathways, and simulate BBR docking at M1 and M2 adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), CCL4, CCL5, and C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4). Next, in vivo, we divided 20 C58BL/6 mice into four groups: normal chow, control (high fat diet (HFD)), HFD + BBR 100 mg/kg, and HFD + metformin (MET) 200 mg/kg. We evaluated body weight, organ weight, fat area in tissues, oral glucose and fat tolerance tests, HOMA-IR, serum lipids levels, population changes in ATMs, M1 and M2 subsets, and gene expression of TNF-α, CCL2, CCL3, CCL5, and CXCR4. BBR significantly reduced body weight, adipocyte size, fat deposition in the liver, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, free fatty acids, ATM infiltration, all assessed gene expression, and enhanced the CD206+ M2 ATMs population. In conclusion, BBR treats obesity and its associated metabolic dysfunctions, by modulating ATM recruitment and polarization via chemotaxis inhibition.

Phytochemicals targeting NAFLD through modulating the dual function of forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) transcription factor signaling pathways

Literature evidence reveals that natural compounds are potential candidates for ameliorating obesity-associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by targeting forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) transcription factor. FOXO1 has a dual and complex role in regulating both increase and decrease in lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and adipose tissues (AT) at different stages of NAFLD. In insulin resistance (IR), it is constitutively expressed, resulting in increased hepatic glucose output and lipid metabolism irregularity. The studies on different phytochemicals indicate that dysregulation of FOXO1 causes disturbance in cellular nutrients homeostasis, and the natural entities have an enduring impact on the mitigation of these abnormalities. The current review communicates and evaluates certain phytochemicals through different search engines, targeting FOXO1 and its downstream cellular pathways to find lead compounds as potential therapeutic agents for treating NAFLD and related metabolic disorders. The findings of this review confirm that polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and anthocyanins are capable of modulating FOXO1 and associated signaling pathways, and they are potential therapeutic agents for NAFLD and related complications. HIGHLIGHTS: • FOXO1 has the potential to be targeted by novel drugs from natural sources for the treatment of NAFLD and obesity. • FOXO1 regulates cellular autophagy, inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipogenesis through alternative mechanisms. • Phytochemicals treat NAFLD by acting on FOXO1 or SREBP1c and PPARγ transcription factor signaling pathways.

Expatiating the Pharmacological and Nanotechnological Aspects of the Alkaloidal Drug Berberine: Current and Future Trends

Traditionally, herbal compounds have been the focus of scientific interest for the last several centuries, and continuous research into their medicinal potential is underway. Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from plants that possess a broad array of medicinal properties, including anti-diarrheal, anti-fibrotic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, antihyperlipidemic, antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic effects, and is frequently utilized as a traditional Chinese medicine. BBR promotes metabolisms of glucose and lipids by activating adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, stimulating glycolysis and inhibiting functions of mitochondria; all of these ameliorate type 2 diabetes mellitus. BBR has also been shown to have benefits in congestive heart failure, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and polycystic ovary syndrome. BBR has been investigated as an interesting pharmacophore with the potential to contribute significantly to the research and development of novel therapeutic medicines for a variety of disorders. Despite its enormous therapeutic promise, the clinical application of this alkaloid was severely limited because of its unpleasant pharmacokinetic characteristics. Poor bioavailability, limited absorption, and poor water solubility are some of the obstacles that restricted its use. Nanotechnology has been suggested as a possible solution to these problems. The present review aims at recent updates on important therapeutic activities of BBR and different types of nanocarriers used for the delivery of BBR in different diseases.

Effect of berberine in comparison to metformin on the biophysical and biochemical parameters in diabetic albino Wistar rats

Introduction: Diabetic endothelial dysfunction is accompanied by increased oxidative stress and upregulated proinflammatory and inflammatory mediators in the endothelial vasculature. Aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Berberine, a natural alkaloid, on the oxidative stress, inflammation and its anti-oxidant effect in streptozotocin diabetic rats and to compare the effectiveness of FF with that of Metformin (Met) Material & Methods: This experimental animal study was conducted at animal house. The sample size included 174 albino wistar rats divided into 3 Groups, one control groups (C) Diabetic and untreated and two test groups. T1 Diabetic and treated with metformin 75 mg/kgwt/day) and T2 (T – Diabetics treated with Berberine(Ber) 100 mg/kgwt/day), with 58 rats in each group (29 male & 29 female). All the rats were treated with streptozotocin intra peritoneally and the diabetic state was induced.  T1 group was treated with metformin 75 mg/kg/wt/day. The T2 group of rats were treated with Berberine at a dose of 100 mg/kgwt/day. Blood sample was drawn from retro orbital plexus of animals and the biophysical and biochemical parameters were tested at an interval of 3, 6 and 12-months duration.

Berberine Ameliorates Glucose Metabolism in Diabetic Rats through the alpha7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor-Related Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway

Berberine is an isoquinoline derivative alkaloid extracted from Chinese herbs. Recent studies have demonstrated the therapeutic effect of berberine on glucose metabolic disorders. However, its specific mechanism is still unclear. Our study aimed to research the glucose-lowering effect of berberine in diabetic rats and to reveal the possible role of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. Diabetic rats induced by administration of a high-calorie diet and streptozocin tail vein injection were assessed by the oral glucose tolerance test. Then, the diabetic rats were divided into two groups, those with or without the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene downregulated, respectively, followed by treatment including berberine for 6 weeks. Results of this study show that the administration of berberine downregulated levels of fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin, and ameliorated insulin resistance in diabetic rats. Treatment with berberine inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity, and upregulated acetylcholine levels in the serum and alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene expression in the liver tissue. Meanwhile, berberine reversed elevated expression of cytokines interleukin-1β and TNF-α in the serum and downregulated nuclear factor κB expression. However, berberine administration showed no glucose-lowering or anti-inflammatory effect in diabetic rats in which alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene expression was downregulated, and acetylcholinesterase activity was also significantly inhibited. In conclusion, berberine may ameliorate glucose metabolism by activating the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-mediated cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway.

Discovery of the First in Class 9-N-Berberine Derivative as Hypoglycemic Agent with Extra-Strong Action

Berberine is well known for its ability to reduce the blood glucose level, but its high effective dose and poor bioavailability limits its use. In this work we synthesized a new derivative of berberine, 9-(hexylamino)-2,3-methylenedioxy-10-methoxyprotoberberine chloride (SHE-196), and analyzed the profile of its hypoglycemic effects. Biological tests have shown that the substance has a very pronounced hypoglycemic activity due to increased insulin sensitivity after single and multiple dosing. In obese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice, it was characterized by improved glucose tolerance, decreased fasting insulin levels and sensitivity, decreased total body weight and interscapular fat mass, and increased interscapular brown fat activity. All these effects were also confirmed histologically, where a decrease in fatty degeneration of the liver, an improvement in the condition of the islets of Langerhans and a decrease in the size of fat droplets in brown adipose tissue were found. Our results indicate that 9-(hexylamino)-2,3-methylenedioxy-10-methoxyprotoberberine chloride could be the first in a new series of therapeutic agents for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Potencjalne możliwości wykorzystania berberyny w przeciwdziałaniu insulinooporności i w cukrzycy typu 2

Insulinooporność to stan zmniejszonej wrażliwości tkanek docelowych na działanie insuliny, mimo jej prawidłowego lub podwyższonego stężenia w surowicy krwi. Jest ważnym czynnikiem w patogenezie zespołu metabolicznego, w tym stanu przedcukrzycowego i cukrzycy typu 2, a także chorób sercowo-naczyniowych oraz zespołu policystycznych jajników. Wzrasta zainteresowanie wykorzystaniem środków pochodzenia roślinnego w leczeniu pacjentów z chorobami metabolicznymi. Jednymi z nich są rośliny z rodziny berberysowatych zawierające alkaloidy izochinolinowe, takie jak berberyna. Sugeruje się, iż berberyna może wpływać na zmniejszenie insulinooporności, gospodarkę węglowodanową oraz metabolizm lipidów. Naukowcy wykazali, że ten roślinny alkaloid może tłumić różnicowanie adipocytów i wspomagać redukcję masy ciała. Inne właściwości berberyny obejmują działanie hipotensyjne oraz ochronne wobec śródbłonka naczyniowego. W artykule skoncentrowano się przede wszystkim na przedstawieniu potencjalnych możliwości wykorzystania berberyny w przeciwdziałaniu insulinooporności w cukrzycy typu 2.

AMPK Activity: A Primary Target for Diabetes Prevention with Therapeutic Phytochemicals

Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome characterized by inadequate blood glucose control and is associated with reduced quality of life and various complications, significantly shortening life expectancy. Natural phytochemicals found in plants have been traditionally used as medicines for the prevention of chronic diseases including diabetes in East Asia since ancient times. Many of these phytochemicals have been characterized as having few side effects, and scientific research into the mechanisms of action responsible has accumulated mounting evidence for their efficacy. These compounds, which may help to prevent metabolic syndrome disorders including diabetes, act through relevant intracellular signaling pathways. In this review, we examine the anti-diabetic efficacy of several compounds and extracts derived from medicinal plants, with a focus on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity.

Beneficial effects of cinnamon and its extracts in the management of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes are the leading causes of death worldwide, which underlines the urgent necessity to develop new pharmacotherapies. Cinnamon has been an eminent component of spice and traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Numerous lines of findings have elucidated that cinnamon has beneficial effects against CVDs in various ways, including endothelium protection, regulation of immune response, lowering blood lipids, antioxidative properties, anti-inflammatory properties, suppression of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) growth and mobilization, repression of platelet activity and thrombosis and inhibition of angiogenesis. Furthermore, emerging evidence has established that cinnamon improves diabetes, a crucial risk factor for CVDs, by enhancing insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion; regulating the enzyme activity involved in glucose; regulating glucose metabolism in the liver, adipose tissue and muscle; ameliorating oxidative stress and inflammation to protect islet cells; and improving diabetes complications. In this review, we summarized the mechanisms by which cinnamon regulates CVDs and diabetes in order to provide a theoretical basis for the further clinical application of cinnamon.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacological Activities of Berberine in Diabetes Mellitus Treatment

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has good clinical application prospects in diabetes treatment. In addition, TCM is less toxic and/or has fewer side effects and provides various therapeutic effects. Berberine (BBR) is isolated as the main component in many TCM kinds (e.g., Rhizoma Coptidis and Berberidis Cortex). Furthermore, BBR can reduce blood sugar and blood fat, alleviate inflammation, and improve the state of patients. Based on the recent study results of BBR in diabetes treatment, the BBR pharmacokinetics and mechanism on diabetes are mainly studied, and the specific molecular mechanism of related experimental BBR is systematically summarized and analyzed. Clinical studies have proved that BBR has a good therapeutic effect on diabetes, suggesting that BBR may be a promising drug candidate for diabetes. More detailed BBR mechanisms and pathways of BBR need to be studied further in depth, which will help understand the BBR pharmacology in diabetes treatment.

The Effect of Combined Herbal Capsule on Glycemic Indices and Lipid Profile in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the potential effects of the combined herbal capsule (CHC), as a nutritional supplement, on glycemic indices (GIs) and lipid profile (LP) of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Following a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, the current study was conducted on 80 cases with T2DM who were randomly assigned into two groups of treatment (CHCs; n = 40) and control (placebo; n = 40). Both groups received the intervention (500 mg capsules) twice a day for three months, without changes in the previous dose of oral anti-hyperglycemic drugs. The GI and LP levels were measured before the intervention and three months later to investigate the potential efficacy of the interventions. Results: For those in the intervention group, the mean GI [i.e., fasting blood sugar, two hours postprandial (2hpp), and HbA1c] was significantly different after 3 months (P < 0.05). The GI- and LP-related outcomes (TG, LDL-C except for TC) were improved after 3-month of receiving the intervention compared to the control group; however, the observed improvement was no statistically significant (P > 0.05). The HDL-C level was also significantly improved in the intervention group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that receiving CHCs could improve GI and LP levels (TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C, except for TC), which indicates its potential to control T2DM. Moreover, no significant side effect was observed in the intervention group. It can be argued that the use of CHCs, as adjuvant therapy, in combination with conventional hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering drugs, as well as following a modified lifestyle, not only can significantly enhance glycemic control but also may prevent T2DM complications.

Regulation of Nutritional Metabolism in Transition Dairy Goats: Energy Balance, Liver Activity, and Insulin Resistance in Response to Berberine Supplementation

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the alleviating effects of the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine (BBR) on the energy balance (EB), glucose and insulin metabolism, and liver functionality in transition dairy goats, as reflected by blood metabolites and enzymes. Twenty-four primiparous Saanen goats were randomly allocated to four groups. Goats in each group received, ad libitum, the same basal diet during the pre- and post-partum periods of evaluation. Goats received daily0, 1, 2, or 4 g BBR (coded as CON, BBR1, BBR2, and BBR4, respectively). Dry matter intake (DMI) and milk yield were recorded daily. Blood samples were collected on days -21, -14, -7, 0, 7, 14, and 21 relative to kidding, and individual body condition scores (BCSs) were also recorded. Supplementation with either BBR2 or BBR4 increased (p < 0.05) pre- and post-partum DMI, increasing (p < 0.05) the intakes of net energy for lactating and metabolizable proteins. BBR2 and BBR4 increased (p < 0.05) post-partum milk production as well as fat-corrected milk (FCM), energy-corrected milk (ECM), and feed efficiency, indicating the alleviating effect of BBR on the negative energy balance (NEB) in transition goats. The daily ingestion of either 2 or 4 g BBR reduced (p < 0.05) plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and increased (p < 0.05) the dynamic change in the liver activity index (LAI) and liver functionality index (LFI), implying its hepatoprotective effect on transition goats. Overall, the results suggest that BBR supplementation of at least 2 g/d may help to ameliorate insulin resistance (IR) and fat metabolism disorders initiated by the NEB in transition dairy goats.

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

Objective

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

Materials and methods

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

Results

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

Conclusion

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

Synthesis of disaccharide modified berberine derivatives and their anti-diabetic investigation in zebrafish using a fluorescence-based technology

Berberine is a naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloid and has been used as an important functional food additive in China due to its various pharmacological activities. Berberine exhibits great potential for developing anti-diabetic agents against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as it can reduce the blood glucose level in many animal models. However, the low anti-diabetic activity and poor bioavailability of berberine (below 5%) by oral administration significantly limit its practical applications. To solve these problems, this article focuses on the structural modification of berberine using some disaccharide groups, because the carbohydrate moiety has been proved to improve the bioavailability and enhance the receptor-binding affinity of drugs. Anti-diabetic investigation of the synthesized compounds was performed in a zebrafish model using a fluorescently labelled glucose analog 2-deoxy-2-[(7-nitro-2,1,3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl)amino]-d-glucose (2-NBDG) as a glucose tracker. The results indicated that the modification of berberine with carbohydrate groups could give derivatives with improved anti-diabetic activity, in particular the diglucose modified berberine derivative 1 which could dramatically promote the uptake of 2-NBDG in both zebrafish larvae and their eyes even at very low concentrations. Furthermore, the fluorescence-based anti-diabetic investigation method in zebrafish shows great potential for anti-diabetic drug screening.

Berberine: A Promising Natural Isoquinoline Alkaloid for the Development of Hypolipidemic Drugs

Berberine, as a representative isoquinoline alkaloid, exhibits significant hypolipidemic activity in both animal models and clinical trials. Recently, a large number of studies on the lipid-lowering mechanism of berberine and studies for improving its hypolipidemic activity have been reported, but for the most part, they have been either incomplete or not comprehensive. In addition, there have been a few specific reviews on the lipid-reducing effect of berberine. In this paper, the physicochemical properties, the lipid-lowering mechanism, and studies of the modification of berberine all are discussed to promote the development of berberine as a lipid-lowering agent. Subsequently, this paper provides some insights into the deficiencies of berberine in the study of lipid-lowering drug, and based on the situation, some proposals are put forward.

Berberine improves intralipid-induced insulin resistance in murine

Insulin resistance (IR) is a major metabolic risk factor even before the onset of hyperglycemia. Recently, berberine (BBR) is found to improve hyperglycemia and IR. In this study, we investigated whether BBR could improve IR independent of hyperglycemia. Acute insulin-resistant state was induced in rats by systemic infusion of intralipid (6.6%). BBR was administered via different delivery routes before or after the beginning of a 2-h euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp. At the end of experiment, rats were sacrificed, gastrocnemius muscle was collected for detecting mitochondrial swelling, phosphorylation of Akt and AMPK, as well as the mitochondrial permeability regulator cyclophilin D (CypD) protein expression. We showed that BBR administration markedly ameliorated intralipid-induced IR without affecting blood glucose, which was accompanied by alleviated mitochondrial swelling in skeletal muscle. We used human skeletal muscle cells (HSMCs), AML12 hepatocytes, human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and CypD knockout mice to investigate metabolic and molecular alternations. In either HSMCs or AML12 hepatocytes, BBR (5 μM) abolished palmitate acid (PA)-induced increase of CypD protein levels. In CypD-deficient mice, intralipid-induced IR was greatly attenuated and the beneficial effect of BBR was diminished. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of BBR on intralipid-induced IR was mainly mediated by skeletal muscle, but not by intestine, liver, or microvasculature; BBR administration suppressed intralipid-induced upregulation of CypD expression in skeletal muscle. These results suggest that BBR alleviates intralipid-induced IR, which is related to the inhibition of CypD protein expression in skeletal muscle.

Berberine alleviates lipid metabolism disorders via inhibition of mitochondrial complex I in gut and liver

This study is to investigate the relationship between berberine (BBR) and mitochondrial complex I in lipid metabolism. BBR reversed high-fat diet-induced obesity, hepatic steatosis, hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance in mice. Fatty acid consumption, β-oxidation and lipogenesis were attenuated in liver after BBR treatment which may be through reduction in SCD1, FABP1, CD36 and CPT1A. BBR promoted fecal lipid excretion, which may result from the reduction in intestinal CD36 and SCD1. Moreover, BBR inhibited mitochondrial complex I-dependent oxygen consumption and ATP synthesis of liver and gut, but no impact on activities of complex II, III and IV. BBR ameliorated mitochondrial swelling, facilitated mitochondrial fusion, and reduced mtDNA and citrate synthase activity. BBR decreased the abundance and diversity of gut microbiome. However, no change in metabolism of recipient mice was observed after fecal microbiota transplantation from BBR treated mice. In primary hepatocytes, BBR and AMPK activator A769662 normalized oleic acid-induced lipid deposition. Although both the agents activated AMPK, BBR decreased oxygen consumption whereas A769662 increased it. Collectively, these findings indicated that BBR repressed complex I in gut and liver and consequently inhibited lipid metabolism which led to alleviation of obesity and fatty liver. This process was independent of intestinal bacteria.

Dietary berberine can ameliorate glucose metabolism disorder of Megalobrama amblycephala exposed to a high-carbohydrate diet

Blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) were randomly assigned into three diets: normal-carbohydrate diet (NCD, 30% carbohydrate, w/w), high-carbohydrate diet (HCD, 43% carbohydrate), and HCB (HCD supplemented with 50 mg/kg berberine (BBR)). After 10 weeks' feeding trial, the results showed that higher levels of plasma glucose, triglyceride, and total cholesterol were observed in HCD-fed fish than in NCD-fed fish, while HCB feeding significantly ameliorated this effect. Moreover, HCB feeding remarkably reversed HCD-induced hepatic glycogen and lipid contents. In insulin signaling, BBR inclusion restored HCD-induced suppression of insulin receptor substrate mRNA expression and elevation of forkhead transcription factor 1 mRNA expression. In glucose metabolism, upregulated glucose transporter 2 and glycogen synthase mRNA expressions in the HCD group were observed compared to the NCD group. However, BBR adding reduced the mRNA expressions of glycogen synthase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, and glucose-6-phosphatase and increased the transcriptional levels of glucose transporter 2 and pyruvate kinase. In lipid metabolism, BBR supplementation could reverse downregulated hepatic carnitine palmitoyl transferase I mRNA expression and upregulated hepatic acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthetase mRNA expressions in the HCD group. Taken together, it demonstrates that BBR could improve glucose metabolism of this species via enhancing liver's glycolysis and insulin signaling, while inhibiting liver's glycogen synthesis and gluconeogenesis. It also indicates that BBR could reduce the metabolic burden of the liver by inhibiting fat synthesis and promoting lipid decomposition, and then enhance fat uptake in peripheral tissues.

An updated review on therapeutic potential and recent advances in drug delivery of Berberine: Current status and future prospect

Natural products are well known for their high potency with minimum side effects. Plant extracts are the most commonly used natural products because of their ease of availability and relatively low production cost. Berberine (BBR), a phytochemical component of some Chinese medicinal herbs (most commonlyBerberis vulgaris), is an isoquinoline alkaloid with several biological and pharmacological effects including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumour, antimicrobial, antidepressant,hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, and hypoglycemic actions. Interestingly, multiple studies have shown that BBR is a potential drug candidate with a multi-spectrum therapeutic application. However, the oral delivery of BBR is challenged owing to its poor bioavailability. Therefore, its oral bioavailability needs to be enhanced before it can be used in many clinical applications. This review provides an overview of the various studies that support the broad range of pharmacological activities of BBR. Also, it includes a section to address the issues and challenges related with the drug and methods to improve the properties of BBR such as solubility, stability and bioavailability that may be explored to help patients reap the maximum benefit from this potentially useful drug.