Biological Activity of Berberine-A Summary Update

Phytochemical characterization and pharmacological mechanisms of Huazhuo Sanjie Chubi Decoction in treating gouty arthritis: A multivariant approach

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Huazhuo Sanjie Chubi Decoction (HSCD), a Chinese herbal formula, is traditionally used for the treatment of spleen deficiency with dampness accumulation and is commonly used to treat gouty arthritis (GA). However, the potential active compounds and mechanisms of HSCD remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To elucidate the key bioactive compounds and pharmacological mechanisms of HSCD in treating GA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical compounds in HSCD were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using ultraperformance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed to identify key active compounds and associated molecular pathways. Monosodium urate (MSU)-induced RAW264.7 macrophages and GA rat model were used to explore the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of HSCD in treating GA.

RESULTS

UPLC-MS/MS identified 184 compounds in HSCD, with 28 key compounds quantified. Network pharmacology revealed that verbenalin, limonin, and quercitrin are strongly associated with the molecular mechanisms of HSCD in treating GA via the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. These compounds exhibited strong binding affinity to PI3K and AKT proteins. In RAW264.7 cells, HSCD and the three identified compounds dose-dependently reduced inflammation by inhibiting nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). They also downregulated both the PI3K-AKT and apoptosis signaling pathways. In rats, HSCD exerted therapeutic effects against acute GA by alleviating swelling and pathological damage to the ankle joints. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms in vivo were confirmed to be associated with the PI3K-AKT and apoptosis signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

This study employed a multivariant approach to demonstrate the main bioactive compounds and molecular mechanisms of HSCD in treating GA, thereby supporting its traditional use.

Molecular dynamics and experimental evaluation of piperine as a potential mTOR inhibitor in colon cancer cells

Piperine, a natural alkaloid found in black pepper (Piper nigrum), has the chemical formula C₁₇H₁₉NO₃ and a molecular weight of 285.34 g/mol. This research investigated its effect on the mTOR protein, which plays a crucial role in cancer development, using molecular docking, dynamic simulations, MTT, and scratch wound assays on the HCT-116 colon cancer cell line. Molecular docking revealed that piperine exhibited a binding affinity of - 8.3 kcal/mol to the mTOR protein, which is significantly comparable to rapamycin's binding affinity of - 8.8 kcal/mol, a well-known mTOR inhibitor. This comparison highlights that piperine demonstrates a substantial ability to interact with the mTOR binding site, making it a potential candidate for further evaluation. Molecular dynamics simulation studies over 100 ns confirmed that piperine remains stable and firmly bound to the mTOR active site, binding in an ATP-competitive mode. MTT assay results revealed that piperine significantly reduced cancer cell viability, with IC50 values of 84.5 ± 0.5 µM at 24 h, 46.3 ± 0.26 µM at 48 h, and 19.73 ± 0.25 µM at 72 h, while the scratch wound assay confirmed its inhibition of cancer cell migration, suggesting potential to suppress metastasis. These findings indicate that piperine is a promising mTOR inhibitor with potential applications in cancer therapy, though further research is needed.

The efficacy and safety of berberine in combination with cinnamon supplementation in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a serious global health issue and increases the risk of several chronic diseases. However, if hyperglycemia and other metabolic abnormalities related to diabetes are controlled, fewer micro- and macrovascular complications may occur.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether daily supplementation with berberine in combination with cinnamon could have effect on cardiometabolic risk factors, such as impaired glucose regulation, dyslipidemia, and hypertension in patients with diabetes.

METHODS

Patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited to participate in a parallel, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study. Participants were randomized into berberine in combination with cinnamon supplementation or placebo group. Participants were then asked to take a divided daily dose of 1200 mg berberine and 600 mg cinnamon or placebo for 12 weeks. ANCOVA was then performed to evaluate the differences between the two groups, controlling for the respective baseline values.

RESULTS

At the end of study, fasting blood sugar (FBS) (P = 0.031) and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) (P = 0.013) were significantly lower in participants taking berberine plus cinnamon than those taking the placebo capsules. The results of the serum lipid profile also indicated a significant difference in the level of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P = 0.039), while no difference was observed in the levels of total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides between the study groups. In addition, there was no difference in other measured metabolic and anthropometric parameters between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Twelve weeks of berberine plus cinnamon consumption reduced blood FBS, HbA1c and LDL-C concentration in patients with diabetes.

Network Pharmacology to Unveil the Mechanism of Berberine in the Treatment of Streptococcus suis Meningitis in Humans and Pigs

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) is a major swine pathogen throughout the world as well as an emerging zoonotic agent. Among the symptoms caused by S. suis, including septicemia, pneumonia, endo-carditis, arthritis, and meningitis, the latter is the most overlooked. In the present study, we explored the mechanism of action of berberine against S. suis meningitis by obtaining berberine-related action targets, porcine S. suis meningitis targets, and human S. suis meningitis targets from open databases. We constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network by using the STRING database and employed Cytoscape 3.8.0 to screen for core targets. We performed Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses through DAVID. We identified 31 potential targets of berberine, of which Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), fibronectin 1 (FN1), superoxide dismutase (SOD1), and catalase (CAT) were the four most critical targets. GO analysis revealed the enrichment of terms related to the response to oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. KEGG analysis revealed the enrichment of the interleukin 17 (IL-17), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt, TLR, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. In addition, the admetSAR results showed that berberine can cross the blood-brain barrier. The molecular docking results indicated key binding activity between TLR4-berberine and FN1-berberine. In summary, berberine protects against Streptococcus suis meningitis by regulating inflammatory response and oxidative stress in humans and pigs. Our study updates the current knowledge of the targets of S. suis meningitis to exploit new drugs in humans and pigs, to develop environmentally friendly and antibiotic-free animal-derived food products, and to improve the farming industry and economic development.

Polyphenols, Alkaloids, and Terpenoids Against Neurodegeneration: Evaluating the Neuroprotective Effects of Phytocompounds Through a Comprehensive Review of the Current Evidence

Neurodegenerative diseases comprise a group of chronic, usually age-related, disorders characterized by progressive neuronal loss, deformation of neuronal structure, or loss of neuronal function, leading to a substantially reduced quality of life. They remain a significant focus of scientific and clinical interest due to their increasing medical and social importance. Most neurodegenerative diseases present intracellular protein aggregation or their extracellular deposition (plaques), such as α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease and amyloid beta (Aβ)/tau aggregates in Alzheimer's. Conventional treatments for neurodegenerative conditions incur high costs and are related to the development of several adverse effects. In addition, many patients are irresponsive to them. For these reasons, there is a growing tendency to find new therapeutic approaches to help patients. This review intends to investigate some phytocompounds' effects on neurodegenerative diseases. These conditions are generally related to increased oxidative stress and inflammation, so phytocompounds can help prevent or treat neurodegenerative diseases. To achieve our aim to provide a critical assessment of the current literature about phytochemicals targeting neurodegeneration, we reviewed reputable databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, and COCHRANE, seeking clinical trials that utilized phytochemicals against neurodegenerative conditions. A few clinical trials investigated the effects of phytocompounds in humans, and after screening, 13 clinical trials were ultimately included following PRISMA guidelines. These compounds include polyphenols (flavonoids such as luteolin and quercetin, phenolic acids such as rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid, and other polyphenols like resveratrol), alkaloids (such as berberine, huperzine A, and caffeine), and terpenoids (such as ginkgolides and limonene). The gathered evidence underscores that quercetin, caffeine, ginkgolides, and other phytochemicals are primarily anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective, counteracting neuroinflammation, neuronal oxidation, and synaptic dysfunctions, which are crucial aspects of neurodegenerative disease intervention in various included conditions, such as Alzheimer's and other dementias, depression, and neuropsychiatric disorders. In summary, they show that the use of these compounds is related to significant improvements in cognition, memory, disinhibition, irritability/lability, aberrant behavior, hallucinations, and mood disorders.

Efficacy and safety of Danggui Liuhuang Decoction combined with antithyroid drugs for hyperthyroidism: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hyperthyroidism is a prevalent clinical endocrine disorder. Danggui Liuhuang Decoction (DGLHD), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine formula, has shown potential benefits for patients with hyperthyroidism in recent studies. However, the clinical efficacy and safety of DGLHD have not been systematically evaluated. To address this, a systematic review and meta-analysis are necessary to comprehensively evaluate its efficacy and safety in treating hyperthyroidism.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of DGLHD in treating hyperthyroidism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive search of eight databases was conducted from their inception to November 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing DGLHD combined with antithyroid drugs (ATDs) to ATDs alone. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. A meta-analysis was conducted using Revman 5.3 software, while publication bias was evaluated with Stata 16.0 software. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE system.

RESULTS

Overall, 20 RCTs involving 1757 patients with hyperthyroidism were included in this analysis. The methodological quality was generally low. The meta-analysis revealed that, compared to ATDs alone, the combination of DGLHD with ATDs was more effective in reducing free triiodothyronine (FT3) [standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI): -1.31 to -0.28, P = 0.002], free thyroxine (FT4) [SMD = -1.47, 95% CI: -1.99 to -0.94, P < 0.00001], Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome scores [mean difference (MD) = -3.65, 95% CI: -4.68 to -2.62, P < 0.00001], and adverse events [relative risk (RR) = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.36, P < 0.00001]. Additionally, combining DGLHD with ATDs led to an improvement in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels [SMD = 2.75, 95% CI: 1.37 to 4.13, P < 0.0001] and increased the effectiveness rate of TCM syndrome [RR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.08 to 1.34, P = 0.001]. However, other outcomes, such as recurrence rates and quality of life scores, could not be analyzed through meta-analysis owing to the limited number of included studies.

CONCLUSION

Combining DGLHD with ATDs may alleviate clinical symptoms, enhance thyroid function, and reduce adverse events in patients with hyperthyroidism. Moreover, this treatment appears to be safe for clinical use. However, owing to the limited quantity and quality of the included studies, these conclusions require further validation through more large-sample, multicenter, high-quality RCTs.

Traditional Chinese medicine enhances the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors in tumor treatment: A mechanism discussion

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have altered the landscape of tumor immunotherapy, offering novel therapeutic approaches alongside surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy and significantly improving survival benefits. However, their clinical efficacy is limited in some patients, and their use may cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with ICIs has demonstrated the potential to boost sensitization and reduce toxicity. Clinical trials and experimental explorations have confirmed that TCM and its active components synergistically enhance the effectiveness of ICIs.

AIMS

This narrative review summarizes the TCM practices that enhance the clinical efficacy and reduce irAEs of ICIs. This paper also summarizes the mechanism of experimental studies on the synergies of Chinese herbal decoctions, Chinese herbal preparation, and Chinese herbal active ingredients. Most of the studies on TCM combined with ICIs are basic experiments. We discussed the mechanism of TCM enhanced ICIs to provide reference for the research and development of TCM adjuvant immunotherapy.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search using PubMed and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure databases, with a focus on herbal decoction, Chinese medicine preparations, and active ingredients that boost the effectiveness of ICIs and reduce irAEs. The search keywords were "ICIs and traditional Chinese medicine", "PD-1 and traditional Chinese medicine", "PD-L1 and traditional Chinese medicine", "CTLA-4 and traditional Chinese medicine", "IDO1 and traditional Chinese medicine", "Tim-3 and traditional Chinese medicine", "TIGIT and traditional Chinese medicine", "irAEs and traditional Chinese medicine". The search period was from May 2014 to May 2024. Articles involving the use of TCM or its components in combination with ICIs and investigating the underlying mechanisms were screened. Finally, 30 Chinese medicines used in combination with ICIs were obtained to explore the mechanism. In the part of immune checkpoint molecules other than PD-1, there were few studies on the combined application of TCM, so studies involving the regulation of immune checkpoint molecules by TCM were included.

RESULTS

TCM has been shown to boost the effectiveness of ICIs and reduce irAEs. Researchers indicate that TCM and its active components can work synergistically with ICIs by regulating immune checkpoints PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4, and IDO1, regulating intestinal flora, improving tumor microenvironment and more.

CONCLUSIONS

Combining TCM with ICIs can play a better anti-tumor role, but larger samples and high-quality clinical trials are necessary to confirm this. Many Chinese medicines and their ingredients have been shown to sensitize ICIs in experimental studies, which provides a rich choice for the subsequent development of ICI enhancers.

Transcriptome analysis of Berberine induced accelerated tail fin regeneration in Zebrafish larvae

Humans have limited capacity to regenerate lost tissues post injury. The ability to modulate regenerative repair of tissues offers possibilities for restoring loss of tissue (organ) structure and function. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae fin fold regeneration model is a simple system to study the process of regeneration and associated cellular mechanisms. Berberine, a plant alkaloid which is known to have wound healing properties shows potential to modulate regeneration. The present study aimed to explore the modulating influence of berberine on the signaling pathways involved in zebrafish larvae transected tail fin fold regeneration. Tail fin fold transection was performed on 3 dpf (days post fertilization) zebrafish larvae treated with Berberine (0.01%) and untreated control (System water (SW)). The larvae were observed under a microscope at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, hours post transection (hpt). RNA was extracted from Berberine treated and untreated (control) tail fin transected larvae at 4 hpt to perform RNA-seq analysis. PPI (protein-protein interaction) network, Shiny GO functional enrichment and topology analysis of DEGs (differentially expressed genes) was performed. Berberine treated larvae showed an accelerated regeneration growth in their transected tail fin by 4 hpt. Berberine induced accelerated regeneration is associated with the involvement of Insulin, IGF, stress response, jak-stat, cytokine, and cellular reprogramming signaling pathways as per RNA-seq analysis and String PPI network, and Shiny GO functional enrichment analysis of DEGs. Topological analysis using Cytohubba revealed tnfa, stat3, jak2b, igf1, jak1, hsp90aa1.1, stat1a, stat1b, bag3, hsp70, and fosl1a as the key Hub genes in the PPI network. The present study identifies the pathways and the Hub proteins involved in berberine induced accelerated regeneration process in zebrafish larvae.

The potential therapeutic role of berberine in treating epilepsy focusing on temporal lobe epilepsy: State of art and ongoing perspective

Epilepsy is a neurological disease characterized by unprovoked recurrent epileptic seizures. Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the commonest type of focal epilepsy in adults that resist to the conventional anti-seizure medications (ASMs). Interestingly, ASMs do not affect the epileptogenesis and progression of disease. Therefore, repurposing of natural products with anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-seizure effects such as berberine (BRB) may be logical in treating refractory epilepsy and TLE. However, the molecular mechanism of BRB against the development of epilepsy and progression of epileptic seizure mainly in TLE was not fully elucidated. Therefore, we attempt in this review to discuss the potential underlying molecular mechanism of BRB against the development and progression of epilepsy mainly the TLE.

Based on network pharmacology and experimental validation, berberine can inhibit the progression of gastric cancer by modulating oxidative stress

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is marked by high incidence, malignancy, and poor prognosis. Understanding its development mechanisms and discovering effective drugs are urgent needs. Elevated oxidative stress levels in GC patients have been linked to disease progression. Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid from Coptis chinensis, exhibits strong anti-GC properties without notable side effects. However, its impact and mechanisms regarding oxidative stress in GC remain unclear. This study aims to explore berberine's anti-GC mechanisms through network pharmacology and validate findings via in vitro experiments.

Methods

Berberine's target genes were sourced from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). GC-related targets were gathered from GeneCards, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), PharmGkb, the Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), and DrugBank. The intersection of these targets facilitated the construction of a "drug-disease-target" network using Cytoscape 3.9.1. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was developed via the STRING database, and core targets were identified through visualization and topological analysis. Gene Ontology (GO) functional and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed using R. Subsequently, in vitro experiments validated the pharmacology predictions, evaluating berberine's effects on AGS and MKN45 GC cell viability and migration through Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and cell scratch assays. The impact of berberine on reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels was assessed using specific detection kits. Additionally, the influence of berberine on oxidative stress-related signaling pathways nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was assessed through Western blot analysis.

Results

Network pharmacology analysis identified 281 targets for berberine and 8,953 targets related to GC, revealing 224 common targets. GO enrichment analysis encompassed 3,001 biological processes, with the top 10 including responses to external biotic stimuli, oxidative stress, nutrient levels, chemical stress, oxygen levels, and hypoxia. Additionally, 122 cellular components and 213 molecular functions were identified. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicated 176 related signaling pathways, with key pathways for berberine's anti-GC effects potentially including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT), forkhead box O (FOXO), and HIF-1. In vitro experiments demonstrated that berberine significantly inhibited GC cell activity and migration, increased intracellular levels of ROS and MDA, reduced levels of SOD, and suppressed the expression of Nrf2/HO-1, HIF-1α, and EMT pathway proteins.

Conclusions

Regulation of oxidative stress may be one of the key mechanisms by which berberine inhibits the progression of gastric cancer.

Mechanisms of Azole Potentiation: Insights from Drug Repurposing Approaches

The emergence of azole resistance and tolerance in pathogenic fungi has emerged as a significant public health concern, emphasizing the urgency for innovative strategies to bolster the efficacy of azole-based treatments. Drug repurposing stands as a promising and practical avenue for advancing antifungal therapy, with the potential for swift clinical translation. This review offers a comprehensive overview of azole synergistic agents uncovered through drug repurposing strategies, alongside an in-depth exploration of the mechanisms by which these agents augment azole potency. Drawing from these mechanisms, we delineate strategies aimed at enhancing azole effectiveness, such as inhibiting efflux pumps to elevate azole concentrations within fungal cells, intensifying ergosterol synthesis inhibition, mitigating fungal cell resistance to azoles, and disrupting biological processes extending beyond ergosterol synthesis. This review is beneficial for the development of these potentiators, as it meticulously examines instances and provides nuanced discussions on the mechanisms underlying the progression of azole potentiators through drug repurposing strategies.

Non-invasive Mechanical Ventilation in Lung Cancer: Physiological Principles and Clinical Utilization in Surgical and Non-surgical Settings

Non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) has emerged as a pivotal intervention for the care of individuals with lung cancer. NIMV offers substantial advantages in enhancing oxygenation, optimizing respiratory function, elevating pulmonary capacities, and facilitating patient comfort. NIMV's utility extends to enhancing clinical conditions that range from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysematous lung ailments to aiding patients with lung cancer facing acute respiratory failure. Furthermore, NIVM includes perioperative pulmonary rehabilitation. This approach is particularly relevant for individuals with limited lung capacity. Since both non-invasive positive pressure ventilation modes, including BiLevel positive airway pressure and continuous positive airway pressure, address the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that contribute to postoperative respiratory failure, the proactive and early integration of NIMV has the potential to significantly enhance gas exchange and overall respiratory performance in meticulously chosen patients within the perioperative phase. Although non-intubated video-assisted thoracic surgery represents an interesting field of application for NIMV strategies, further studies are needed to optimize operative modalities. Lastly, NIMV has a pivotal role in the settings of intensive care and palliative care units, thereby cementing its versatile utility across various medical contexts.

Harnessing the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals in neuroblastoma

Neuroblastomas are the most common solid tumors outside of the brain that originate from immature neural crest cells, accounting for about 10% of all pediatric malignancies. The treatment for neuroblastomas involves a multimodal schedule, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. All these modalities are limited by side effects that might be severe, poor prognosis, and a high risk of recurrence. In the quest for additional therapeutic approaches, phytochemicals have attracted attention owing to their reported antitumor properties, safety, and multimechanistic mode of action. Several studies have used plant-derived bioactive compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids, suggesting modulation of biomolecules and signal transduction pathways involved in neuroblastoma. We reviewed the findings of recent preclinical and clinical studies demonstrating the effects of phytochemicals on neuroblastoma, shedding light on their molecular mechanism of action and potential therapeutic applications.

Sex-Dependent Effects of CYP2D6 on the Pharmacokinetics of Berberine in Humans

An over-the-counter product berberine (a major alkaloid in goldenseal) is a substrate of the uptake transporter OCT1 and the metabolizing enzyme CYP2D6. The two genes exhibit common functional polymorphisms. Approximately 9% of Europeans and white Americans are either poor CYP2D6 metabolizers or poor OCT1 transporters. In this study, we investigated the effects of OCT1 and CYP2D6 polymorphisms on berberine pharmacokinetics in humans. We confirmed in vitro that berberine is an OCT1 substrate (KM of 7.0 μM, CLint of 306 ± 29 μL/min/mg). Common OCT1 alleles *3 to *6 showed uptake reduced by at least 65% and Oct1/2 knockout mice showed 3.2-fold higher AUCs in liver perfusion experiments. However, in humans, poor OCT1 transporters did not show any differences in berberine pharmacokinetics compared with reference participants. In contrast, CYP2D6 polymorphisms significantly affected berberine metabolism, but exclusively in females. Females who were poor CYP2D6 metabolizers had an 80% lower M1-to-berberine ratio. General linear model analyses suggest strong synergistic, rather than additive, effects between female sex and CYP2D6 genotype. Overall, berberine displayed low oral bioavailability, yet females had a 2.8-fold higher AUC and a 3.6-fold higher Cmax than males (P < 0.001). These effects were only partially attributable to the sex-CYP2D6 genotype interaction. In conclusion, despite berberine being an OCT1 substrate, OCT1 deficiency did not affect berberine pharmacokinetics in humans. In contrast, CYP2D6 emerges as a critical enzyme for berberine metabolism in females, but not in males, highlighting sex-specific differences. We suggest that factors beyond CYP2D6 metabolism are determining berberine's systemic exposure, especially in males (NCT05463003).

Divulging the potency of naturally derived photosensitizers in green PDT: an inclusive review Of mechanisms, advantages, and future prospects

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) offers a minimally invasive approach for treating various health conditions, employing a photosensitizer (PS) and specific light. Recent enhancements make PDT outpatient-friendly and less discomforting. Effectiveness hinges on selecting the appropriate PS. This article delves into natural and synthetic PSs, emphasizing the rising interest in natural alternatives for their safety. It explores their mechanisms, characteristics, and applications, offering insights into their potential contributions to advancing PDT. This extensive review delves into the preclinical and clinical landscape of natural PSs for PDT, shedding light on their diverse applications and promising outcomes. Compounds like curcumin, piperine, riboflavin, psoralen, hypericin, and others show significant potential in preclinical in vitro studies across various cell lines. In vivo, these photosensitizers prove effective against skin tumors, carcinomas, and sarcomas, inducing apoptosis, autophagy, and ROS generation for therapeutic efficacy. The review underscores the critical role of proper dosing and monitoring in balancing therapeutic benefits and risks. It highlights the advantages and limitations of natural PSs, emphasizing their specific targeting, bioavailability, and limited side effects. The future of PDT holds promising breakthroughs, taking from some evidence like Bergamot oil in nanostructured lipid carriers for dermatological conditions. Second-generation photosensitizer Tookad shows potential in prostate cancer treatment, while Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F. emerges as an antimicrobial PDT source etc. Thus, environmental concerns in PDT prompt a shift to plant extracts for PS purification. The evidence-supported focus on natural PSs establishes this article as a key resource for advancing natural compounds in PDT and their therapeutic applications.

A Comprehensive Review Highlighting the Prospects of Phytonutrient Berberine as an Anticancer Agent

Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid derived from various medicinal plants, emerges as a potential therapeutic agent against diverse human diseases. It has particularly shown notable anticancer efficacy against breast, colorectal, lung, prostate, and liver cancer. Berberine results in inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and suppressing angiogenesis, positioning it as a versatile, multitargeted therapeutic tool against cancer. Notably, berberine enhances the effectiveness of conventional chemotherapeutic drugs, mitigating associated drug resistance. Mechanistically, it has been shown to exert its efficacy by targeting molecules like nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt, thereby inhibiting survival pathways and promoting apoptosis of cancer cells. Moreover, berberine influences the expression of tumor suppressor genes, curtails cancer cell migration and invasion, and modulates the tumour microenvironment. Despite promising preclinical evidence, further research is essential to comprehensively elucidate its mechanisms of action and evaluate its safety and efficacy in clinical settings. In the present review, we have highlighted the pharmacokinetics, biosynthesis, and recent research work done pertaining to berberine's strong anticancer activity. We have also emphasised on the research being done on nanoformulations of berberine, which aim to improve its stability and bioavailability.

Mechanism of Action of Tongjiang Mixture for Treating Reflux Esophagitis: A Study Using Serum Pharmacochemistry and Network Pharmacology

Tongjiang Mixture (TJM) is a traditional Chinese formula for treating reflux esophagitis (RE). Nevertheless, its active ingredients and potential pharmacological mechanisms are not yet clearly elucidated. This study will identify the active ingredients of TJM using serum pharmacochemistry and to elucidate the mechanism on RE through network pharmacology. The blood-borne ingredients of TJM are identified by the Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometer. Subsequently, a "compound-target-disease" network is established and obtained core targets associated with TJM and RE. Then, the potential signaling pathways are forecasted through the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis. Finally, the rat model of RE is established to verify the results predicted by network pharmacology through animal experiments. Fifteen blood-borne ingredients of TJM are identified, with eight active ingredients-namely Tangeretin, Tricin, Palmati, Berberine, Limonin, Evodiamine, Tetrahydropalmatine and Rutecarpine - making significant contributions to its efficacy. Moreover, TJM is predicted to act on 193 targets related to RE, involving AKT1, HSP90AA1, PIK3CA, and other targets, which enriches mainly in PI3K/AKT /NF-κB signaling. Additionally, TJM can alleviate inflammation of the esophageal mucosa, reduce pathological damage, and increase gastric pH. It can downregulate PI3K, AKT, and NF-κB mRNA transcription levels and reduce the protein expression of PI3K, AKT, and NF-κB. Furthermore, it can inhibit the overproduction of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-17. TJM can alleviate immune-inflammatory responses and ameliorate RE by restraining the PI3K/AKT pathway and its downstream NF-κB.

Berberine and Cyperus rotundus extract nanoformulations protect the rats against Staphylococcus-induced mastitis via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities: role of MAPK signaling

Berberine (BER) and Cyperus rotundus rhizomes extract (CRE) are phytochemicals characterized by broad-spectrum pharmacological activity that could tackle the side effects of conventional mastitis therapies, however, they undergo a modest bioavailability. In the current study, nanoformulations of BER and CRE chitosan hydrogel (BER/CH-NPs, CRE/CH-NPs) were investigated for their antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects against S. aureus-induced mastitis in a rat model. The experiment was conducted on 80 early lactating female albino rats allocated into 6 groups; control, mastitis, BER/CH-NPs (1 and 0.5 mg), CRE/CH-NPs (0.5 and 0.25 mg), BER/CH-NPs + CRE/CH-NPs (0.5 + 0.25 and 0.25 + 0.125 mg). The nanoparticles were given by oral gavage once every other day from day 2 to day 12 after parturition. On the 13th day, intra-mammary inoculation with 100 µl of S. aureus suspension containing 2.1 × 108 CFU/ml in all groups except the control group. The results expressed the effect of BER/CH-NPs and CRE/CH-NPs on mammary gland tissue including significantly diminished viable bacterial load as well as attenuated the levels of MPO, MDA, caspase-3 with elevating Nrf2 level, and modulating glutathione redox. Also, the nanoformulations resulted in attenuation of the mRNA expression of TLR2, NOD2, Keap-1 and MAPK signaling pathway additional to the immune reactivity of NF-κB P65 and p-ERK as well as the preservation of the regular alveolar architecture. The supplementation of the berberine and Cyperus rotundus extract nanoformulations could be a prospective protective approach against Staphylococcal mastitis via their antibacterial, antioxidant, antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory and modulation of MAPK signaling pathway.

Discovery, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel isoquinoline derivatives as potent indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 and tryptophan 2, 3-dioxygenase dual inhibitors

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) play a pivotal role in regulating kynurenine catabolism pathway and immunosuppressive environment, which are promising drug targets for cancer immunotherapy. In this work, a variety of isoquinoline derivatives were designed, synthesized and evaluated for the inhibitory activity against IDO1 and TDO. The enzymatic assay and structure-activity relationship studies led to the most potent compound 43b with IC50 values of 0.31 μM for IDO1 and 0.08 μM for TDO, respectively. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) revealed direct binding affinity of compound 43b to IDO1 and TDO and molecular docking studies were performed to predict the possible binding mode. Further pharmacokinetic study and biological evaluation in vivo showed that 43b displayed acceptable pharmacokinetic profiles and potent antitumor efficacy with low toxicity in B16-F10 tumor model, which might provide some insights into the discovery of novel IDO1/TDO inhibitors for cancer immunotherapy.

Polymer lipid hybrid nanoparticles for phytochemical delivery: challenges, progress, and future prospects

Phytochemicals, naturally occurring compounds in plants, possess a wide range of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities. However, their clinical application is often hindered by poor water solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and instability under physiological conditions. Polymer lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLHNPs) have emerged as a novel delivery system that combines the advantages of both polymeric and lipid-based nanoparticles to overcome these challenges. This review explores the potential of PLHNPs to enhance the delivery and efficacy of phytochemicals for biomedical applications. We discuss the obstacles in the conventional delivery of phytochemicals, the fundamental architecture of PLHNPs, and the types of PLHNPs, highlighting their ability to improve encapsulation efficiency, stability, and controlled release of the encapsulated phytochemicals. In addition, the surface modification strategies to improve overall therapeutic efficacy by site-specific delivery of encapsulated phytochemicals are also discussed. Furthermore, we extensively discuss the preclinical studies on phytochemical encapsulated PLHNPs for the management of different diseases. Additionally, we explore the challenges ahead and prospects of PLHNPs regarding their widespread use in clinical settings. Overall, PLHNPs hold strong potential for the effective delivery of phytochemicals for biomedical applications. As per the findings from pre-clinical studies, this may offer a promising strategy for managing various diseases.

Research Progress on the Application of Natural Medicines in Biomaterial Coatings

With the continuous progress of biomedical technology, biomaterial coatings play an important role in improving the performance of medical devices and promoting tissue repair and regeneration. The application of natural medicine to biological materials has become a hot topic due to its diverse biological activity, low toxicity, and wide range of sources. This article introduces the definition and classification of natural medicines, lists some common natural medicines, such as curcumin, allicin, chitosan, tea polyphenols, etc., and lists some biological activities of some common natural medicines, such as antibacterial, antioxidant, antitumor, and other properties. According to the different characteristics of natural medicines, physical adsorption, chemical grafting, layer-by-layer self-assembly, sol-gel and other methods are combined with biomaterials, which can be used for orthopedic implants, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular stents, wound dressings, drug delivery systems, etc., to exert their biological activity. For example, improving antibacterial properties, promoting tissue regeneration, and improving biocompatibility promote the development of medical health. Although the development of biomaterials has been greatly expanded, it still faces some major challenges, such as whether the combination between the coating and the substrate is firm, whether the drug load is released sustainably, whether the dynamic balance will be disrupted, and so on; a series of problems affects the application of natural drugs in biomaterial coatings. In view of these problems, this paper summarizes some suggestions by evaluating the literature, such as optimizing the binding method and release system; carrying out more clinical application research; carrying out multidisciplinary cooperation; broadening the application of natural medicine in biomaterial coatings; and developing safer, more effective and multi-functional natural medicine coatings through continuous research and innovation, so as to contribute to the development of the biomedical field.

Charge balanced aggregation: A universal approach to aqueous organic nanocrystals

Organic nanocrystals, particularly those composed of conjugated molecules, hold immense potential for various applications. However, their practical utility is often hindered by the challenge of achieving stable aqueous dispersions, which are essential for biological compatibility and effective delivery. This study introduces a novel and versatile strategy for preparing stable aqueous organic nanocrystals using a modified reprecipitation method. We demonstrate the broad applicability of this approach by successfully preparing a diverse library of nanocrystals from 27 conjugated molecules. Our findings reveal a charge-balanced aggregation mechanism for nanocrystal formation, highlighting the crucial role of surface charge in controlling particle size and stability. Based on this mechanism, we establish a comprehensive molecular combination strategy that directly links molecular properties to colloidal behaviour, enabling the straightforward prediction and preparation of stable aqueous dispersions without the need for excipients. This strategy provides a practical workflow for tailoring the functionality of these nanocrystals for a wide range of applications. To illustrate their therapeutic potential, we demonstrate the enhanced efficacy of these nanocrystals in treating acute ulcerative colitis, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, and cancer in mouse models. This work paves the way for developing next-generation nanomaterials with tailored functionalities for diverse biomedical applications.

Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Protective Effects of Plant-Derived Natural Active Compounds

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains a leading cause of death among patients with cardiovascular diseases. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been the preferred clinical treatment for AMI due to its safety and efficiency. However, research indicates that the rapid restoration of myocardial oxygen supply following PCI can lead to secondary myocardial injury, termed myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI), posing a grave threat to patient survival. Despite ongoing efforts, the mechanisms underlying MIRI are not yet fully elucidated. Among them, oxidative stress and inflammation stand out as critical pathophysiological mechanisms, playing significant roles in MIRI. Natural compounds have shown strong clinical therapeutic potential due to their high efficacy, availability, and low side effects. Many current studies indicate that natural compounds can mitigate MIRI by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Therefore, this paper reviews the mechanisms of oxidative stress and inflammation during MIRI and the role of natural compounds in intervening in these processes, aiming to provide a basis and reference for future research and development of drugs for treating MIRI.

NRF2 Modulators of Plant Origin and Their Ability to Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancers

Cancer is one of the most common causes of death in the world. Despite the fact that there are many types of therapies available, cancer treatment remains a major challenge. The main reason for the ineffectiveness of chemotherapy is the acquisition of multidrug resistance (MDR) by cancer cells. One of the factors responsible for the acquisition of MDR is the NRF2 transcription factor, which regulates the expression of proteins such as HO-1, NQO1, MRP1, MRP2, and GST. In normal cells, NRF2 is the first line of defense against oxidative stress, thereby preventing carcinogenesis. Still, its hyperactivation in cancer cells causes them to acquire MDR, which significantly reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Considering the important role NRF2 plays in the acquisition of MDR, its modulators and, above all, inhibitors are being sought after, including among compounds of plant origin. NRF2 inhibition may prove to be a key element of anticancer therapy. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge about plant NRF2 inhibitors and presents the effects of their use in overcoming MDR in cancer.

Alkaloid-based modulators of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway for cancer therapy: Understandings from pharmacological point of view

This review aims to summarize the role of alkaloids as potential modulators of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR (PAMT) pathway in cancer therapy. The PAMT pathway plays a critical role in cell growth, survival, and metabolism, and its dysregulation contributes to cancer hallmarks. In healthy cells, this pathway is tightly controlled. However, this pathway is frequently dysregulated in cancers and becomes abnormally active. This can happen due to mutations in genes within the pathway itself or due to other factors. This chronic overactivity promotes cancer hallmarks such as uncontrolled cell division, resistance to cell death, and increased blood vessel formation to nourish the tumor. As a result, the PAMT pathway is a crucial therapeutic target for cancer. Researchers are developing drugs that specifically target different components of this pathway, aiming to turn it off and slow cancer progression. Alkaloids, a class of naturally occurring nitrogen-containing molecules found in plants, have emerged as potential therapeutic agents. These alkaloids can target different points within the PAMT pathway, inhibiting its activity and potentially resulting in cancer cell death or suppression of tumor growth. Research is ongoing to explore the role of various alkaloids in cancer treatment. Berberine reduces mTOR activity and increases apoptosis by targeting the PAMT pathway, inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. Lycorine inhibits Akt phosphorylation and mTOR activation, increasing pro-apoptotic protein production and decreasing cell viability. In glioblastoma models, harmine suppresses mTORC1. This review focuses on alkaloids such as evodiamine, hirsuteine, chaetocochin J, indole-3-carbinol, noscapine, berberine, piperlongumine, and so on, which have shown promise in targeting the PAMT pathway. Clinical studies evaluating alkaloids as part of cancer treatment are underway, and their potential impact on patient outcomes is being investigated. In summary, alkaloids represent a promising avenue for targeting the dysregulated PAMT pathway in cancer, and further research is warranted.

Berberine Inhibits the Inflammatory Response Induced by Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Atopic Eczema Patients via the TNF-α/Inflammation/RAGE Pathways

Atopic eczema patients exhibit high levels of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) skin colonization. S. aureus can stimulate macrophages and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Berberine (BBR), an alkaloid, attenuates S. aureus toxin production. This study investigated if BBR suppressed bacterial growth and inflammatory response induced by eczema-patient-derived S. aureus using murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) and human monocyte cell lines (U937). RAW 264.7 and U937 were treated with BBR at different concentrations and stimulated with heat-killed S. aureus (ATCC #33591) or S. aureus derived from severe eczema patients (EC01-EC10), who were undergoing topical steroid withdrawal, for 24 h. TNF-α protein levels were determined by ELISA, gene expression by qRT-PCR, cell cytotoxicity by trypan blue excursion, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels by fluorometric assay. BBR showed a bacteriostatic effect in S. aureus (ATCC strain #33591 and clinical isolates (EC01-EC10) and suppressed TNF-α production in RAW 264.7 and U937 cells exposed to heat-killed S. aureus (ATCC and clinical isolates) dose-dependently without any cell cytotoxicity. BBR (20 µg/mL) suppressed >90% of TNF-α production (p < 0.001), downregulated genes involved in inflammatory pathways, and inhibited S. aureus ROS production in U937 and RAW 264.7 cells (p < 0.01). BBR suppresses S. aureus-induced inflammation via inhibition of TNF-α release, ROS production, and expression of key genes involved in the inflammatory pathway.

A Descriptive Review of the Antioxidant Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Berberine and Silymarin

Oxidative stress is a key factor in the development of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and liver disorders. Antioxidant therapies that target oxidative damage show significant promise in preventing and treating these conditions. Berberine, an alkaloid derived from various plants in the Berberidaceae family, enhances cellular defenses against oxidative stress through several mechanisms. It activates the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, which reduces mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and improves energy metabolism. Furthermore, it boosts the activity of key antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), thus protecting cells from oxidative damage. These actions make berberine effective in managing diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and neurodegenerative disorders. Silymarin, a flavonolignan complex derived from Silybum marianum, is particularly effective for liver protection. It activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, enhancing antioxidant enzyme expression and stabilizing mitochondrial membranes. Additionally, silymarin reduces the formation of ROS by chelating metal ions, and it also diminishes inflammation. This makes it beneficial for conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related liver disorders. This review aims to highlight the distinct mechanisms by which berberine and silymarin exert their antioxidant effects.

Herbal Therapies for Cancer Treatment: A Review of Phytotherapeutic Efficacy

Natural products have proven to be promising anti-cancer agents due to their diverse chemical structures and bioactivity. This review examines their central role in cancer treatment, focusing on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic benefits. Medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids and polyphenols, which exhibit various anticancer properties. These compounds induce apoptosis, inhibit cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, interfere with microtubule formation, act on topoisomerase targets, inhibit angiogenesis, modulate key signaling pathways, improve the tumor microenvironment, reverse drug resistance and activate immune cells. Herbal anti-cancer drugs offer therapeutic advantages, particularly selective toxicity against cancer cells, reducing the adverse side effects associated with conventional chemotherapy. Recent studies and clinical trials highlight the benefits of herbal medicines in alleviating side effects, improving tolerance to chemotherapy and the occurrence of synergistic effects with conventional treatments. For example, the herbal medicine SH003 was found to be safe and potentially effective in the treatment of solid cancers, while Fucoidan showed anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for patients with advanced cancer. The current research landscape on herbal anticancer agents is extensive. Numerous studies and clinical trials are investigating their efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action in various cancers such as lung, prostate, breast and hepatocellular carcinoma. Promising developments include the polypharmacological approach, combination therapies, immunomodulation and the improvement of quality of life. However, there are still challenges in the development and use of natural products as anti-cancer drugs, such as the need for further research into their mechanisms of action, possible drug interactions and optimal dosage. Standardizing herbal extracts, improving bioavailability and delivery, and overcoming regulatory and acceptance hurdles are critical issues that need to be addressed. Nonetheless, the promising anticancer effects and therapeutic benefits of natural products warrant further investigation and development. Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to advance herbal cancer therapy and integrate these agents into mainstream cancer treatment.

Berberine analog of chloramphenicol exhibits a distinct mode of action and unveils ribosome plasticity

Chloramphenicol (CHL) is an antibiotic targeting the peptidyl transferase center in bacterial ribosomes. We synthesized a new analog, CAM-BER, by substituting the dichloroacetyl moiety of CHL with a positively charged aromatic berberine group. CAM-BER suppresses bacterial cell growth, inhibits protein synthesis in vitro, and binds tightly to the 70S ribosome. Crystal structure analysis reveals that the bulky berberine group folds into the P site of the peptidyl transferase center (PTC), where it competes with the formyl-methionine residue of the initiator tRNA. Our toe-printing data confirm that CAM-BER acts as a translation initiation inhibitor in stark contrast to CHL, a translation elongation inhibitor. Moreover, CAM-BER induces a distinct rearrangement of conformationally restrained nucleotide A2059, suggesting that the 23S rRNA plasticity is significantly higher than previously thought. CAM-BER shows potential in avoiding CHL resistance and presents opportunities for developing novel berberine derivatives of CHL through medicinal chemistry exploration.

A Review of the Efficacy of Nanomaterial-Based Natural Photosensitizers to Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancer

Natural photosensitizers (PS) are compounds derived from nature, with photodynamic properties. Natural PSs have a similar action to that of commercial PSs, where cancer cell death occurs by necrosis, apoptosis, and autophagy through ROS generation. Natural PSs have garnered great interest over the last few decades because of their high biocompatibility and good photoactivity. Specific wavelengths could cause phytochemicals to produce harmful ROS for photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, natural PSs have some shortcomings, such as reduced solubility and lower uptake, making them less appropriate for PDT. Nanotechnology offers an opportunity to develop suitable carriers for various natural PSs for PDT applications. Various nanoparticles have been developed to improve the outcome with enhanced solubility, optical adsorption, and tumor targeting. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a phenomenon in which tumor cells develop resistance to a wide range of structurally and functionally unrelated drugs. Over the last decade, several researchers have extensively studied the effect of natural PS-based photodynamic treatment (PDT) on MDR cells. Though the outcomes of clinical trials for natural PSs were inconclusive, significant advancement is still required before PSs can be used as a PDT agent for treating MDR tumors. This review addresses the increasing literature on MDR tumor progression and the efficacy of PDT, emphasizing the importance of developing new nano-based natural PSs in the fight against MDR that have the required features for an MDR tumor photosensitizing regimen.

Prepubertal Repeated Berberine Supplementation Enhances Cerebrocerebellar Functions by Modulating Neurochemical and Behavioural Changes in Wistar Rats

Antioxidant-rich supplementation plays an essential role in the function of mammals' central nervous system. However, no research has documented the effect of berberine (BER) supplementation on the cerebrocerebellar function of prepubertal rats. The present study was designed to investigate the impact of BER supplementation on neurochemical and behavioural changes in prepubertal male rats. Five groups (90 ± 5 g, n = 7 each) of experimental rats were orally treated with corn oil or different doses of BER (25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg bw) from the 28th at 68 post-natal days. On the 69 days of life, animals underwent behavioural assessment in the open field, hanging wire, and negative geotaxis tests. The result revealed that BER administration improved locomotive and motor behaviour by increasing distance travelled, line crossings, average speed, time mobile, and absolute turn angle in open field test and decrease in time to re-orient on an incline plane, a decrease in immobility time relative to the untreated control. Furthermore, BER supplementation increased (p < 0.05) antioxidant enzyme activities such as SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH, and TSH and prevented increases (p < 0.05) in oxidative and inflammatory levels as indicated by decreases in RONS, LPO, XO, carbonyl protein, NO, MPO, and TNF-α compared to the untreated control. BER-treated animals a lessened number of dark-stained Nissl cells compared to the untreated control rats. Our findings revealed that BER minimised neuronal degeneration and lesions, improved animal behaviour, and suppressed oxidative and inflammatory mediators, which may probably occur through its agonistic effect on PPAR-α, PPAR-δ, and PPAR-γ - essential proteins known to resolve inflammation and modulate redox signalling towards antioxidant function.

Berberine inhibits intracellular Ca2+ signals in mouse pancreatic acinar cells through M3 muscarinic receptors: Novel target, mechanism, and implication

Berberine, a natural isoquinoline alkaloid, exhibits a variety of pharmacological effects, but the pharmacological targets and mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we report a novel finding that berberine inhibits acetylcholine (ACh)-induced intracellular Ca2+ oscillations, mediated through an inhibition of the muscarinic subtype 3 (M3) receptor. Patch-clamp recordings and confocal Ca2+ imaging were applied to acute dissociated pancreatic acinar cells prepared from CD1 mice to examine the effects of berberine on ACh-induced Ca2+ oscillations. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings showed that berberine (from 0.1 to 10 µM) reduced ACh-induced Ca2+ oscillations in a concentration-dependent manner, and this inhibition also depended on ACh concentrations. The inhibitory effect of berberine neither occurred in intracellular targets nor extracellular cholecystokinin (CCK) receptors, chloride (Cl-) channels, and store-operated Ca2+ channels. Together, the results demonstrate that berberine directly inhibits the muscarinic M3 receptors, further confirmed by evidence of the interaction between berberine and M3 receptors in pancreatic acinar cells.

The potential application and molecular mechanisms of natural products in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: A review

BACKGROUNDS

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a non-infectious chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa mainly mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) in atopic individuals after exposure to allergens. The application of AR guideline-recommended pharmacotherapies can rapidly relieve symptoms of AR but with poor long-term efficacy, and many of these therapies have side effects. Many natural products and their derivatives have shown potential therapeutic effects on AR with fewer side effects.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to expand understanding of the roles and mechanisms of natural compounds in the treatment of AR and to highlight the importance of utilizing natural products in the treatment of AR.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We conducted a systematic literature search using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Clinical Trials. The search was performed using keywords including natural products, natural compounds, bioproducts, plant extracts, naturally derived products, natural resources, allergic rhinitis, hay fever, pollinosis, nasal allergy. Comprehensive research and compilation of existing literature were conducted.

RESULTS

This article provided a comprehensive review of the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of natural compounds in the treatment of AR. We emphasized that natural products primarily exert their effects by modulating signalling pathways such as NF-κB, MAPKs, STAT3/ROR-γt/Foxp3, and GATA3/T-bet, thereby inhibiting the activation and expansion of allergic inflammation. We also discussed their toxicity and clinical applications in AR therapy.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, natural products exhibit great potential in the treatment of AR. This review is also expected to facilitate the application of natural products as candidates for treating AR. Furthermore, drug discovery based on natural products has a promising prospect in AR treatment.

Bitter yet beneficial: The dual role of dietary alkaloids in managing diabetes and enhancing cognitive function

With the rising prevalence of diabetes and its association with cognitive impairment, interest in the use of dietary alkaloids and other natural products has grown significantly. Understanding how these compounds manage diabetic cognitive dysfunction (DCD) is crucial. This comprehensive review explores the etiology of DCD and the effects of alkaloids in foods and dietary supplements that have been investigated as DCD therapies. Data on how dietary alkaloids like berberine, trigonelline, caffeine, capsaicin, 1-deoxynojirimycin, nuciferine, neferine, aegeline, tetramethylpyrazine, piperine, and others regulate cognition in diabetic disorders were collected from PubMed, Research Gate, Web of Science, Science Direct, and other relevant databases. Dietary alkaloids could improve memory in behavioral models and modulate the mechanisms underlying the cognitive benefits of these compounds, including their effects on glucose metabolism, gut microbiota, vasculopathy, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Evidence suggests that dietary alkaloids hold promise for improving cognition in diabetic patients and could open exciting avenues for future research in diabetes management.

Berberine ameliorates chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced cardiac remodelling by preserving mitochondrial function, role of SIRT6 signalling

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Previously, we have shown that berberine (BBR) is a potential cardioprotective agent. However, its effect and mechanism on CIH-induced cardiomyopathy remain uncovered. This study was designed to determine the effects of BBR against CIH-induced cardiac damage and to explore the molecular mechanisms. Mice were exposed to 5 weeks of CIH with or without the treatment of BBR and adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) carrying SIRT6 or SIRT6-specific short hairpin RNA. The effect of BBR was evaluated by echocardiography, histological analysis and western blot analysis. CIH caused the inactivation of myocardial SIRT6 and AMPK-FOXO3a signalling. BBR dose-dependently ameliorated cardiac injury in CIH-induced mice, as evidenced by increased cardiac function and decreased fibrosis. Notably, SIRT6 overexpression mimicked these beneficial effects, whereas infection with recombinant AAV9 carrying SIRT6-specific short hairpin RNA abrogated them. Mechanistically, BBR reduced oxidative stress damage and preserved mitochondrial function via activating SIRT6-AMPK-FOXO3a signalling, enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis as well as PINK1-Parkin-mediated mitophagy. Taken together, these data demonstrate that SIRT6 activation protects against the pathogenesis of CIH-induced cardiac dysfunction. BBR attenuates CIH-induced myocardial injury by improving mitochondrial biogenesis and PINK1-Parkin-dependent mitophagy via the SIRT6-AMPK-FOXO3a signalling pathway.

Berberine and hesperidin prevent the memory consolidation impairment induced by pentylenetetrazole in zebrafish

This study verified the effects of the natural compounds berberine and hesperidin on seizure development and cognitive impairment triggered by pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) in zebrafish. Adult animals were submitted to a training session in the inhibitory avoidance test and, after 10 minutes, they received an intraperitoneal injection of 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg berberine or 100 or 200 mg/kg hesperidin. After 30 minutes, the animals were exposed to 7.5 mM PTZ for 10 minutes. Animals were submitted to the test session 24 h after the training session to verify their cognitive performance. Zebrafish larvae were exposed to 100 µM or 500 µM berberine or 10 µM or 50 µM hesperidin for 30 minutes. After, larvae were exposed to PTZ and had the seizure development evaluated by latency to reach the seizure stages I, II, and III. Adult zebrafish pretreated with 50 mg/kg berberine showed a longer latency to reach stage III. Zebrafish larvae pretreated with 500 µM berberine showed a longer latency to reach stages II and III. Hesperidin did not show any effect on seizure development both in larvae and adult zebrafish. Berberine and hesperidin pretreatments prevented the memory consolidation impairment provoked by PTZ-induced seizures. There were no changes in the distance traveled in adult zebrafish pretreated with berberine or hesperidin. In larval stage, berberine caused no changes in the distance traveled; however, hesperidin increased the locomotion. Our results reinforce the need for investigating new therapeutic alternatives for epilepsy and its comorbidities.

Differences in Metabolite Profiles of Dihydroberberine and Micellar Berberine in Caco-2 Cells and Humans-A Pilot Study

We investigated the pharmacokinetic pathway of berberine and its metabolites in vitro, in Caco-2 cells, and in human participants following the administration of dihydroberberine (DHB) and micellar berberine (LipoMicel®, LMB) formulations. A pilot trial involving nine healthy volunteers was conducted over a 24 h period; blood samples were collected and subjected to Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) analyses to quantify the concentrations of berberine and its metabolites. Pharmacokinetic correlations indicated that berberrubine and thalifendine follow distinct metabolic pathways. Additionally, jatrorrhizine sulfate appeared to undergo metabolism differently compared to the other sulfated metabolites. Moreover, berberrubine glucuronide likely has a unique metabolic pathway distinct from other glucuronides. The human trial revealed significantly higher blood concentrations of berberine metabolites in participants of the DHB treatment group compared to the LMB treatment group-except for berberrubine glucuronide, which was only detected in the LMB treatment group. Similarly, results from in vitro investigations showed significant differences in berberine metabolite profiles between DHB and LMB. Dihydroberberine, dihydroxy-berberrubine/thalifendine and jatrorrhizine sulfate were detected in LMB-treated cells, but not in DHB-treated cells; thalifendine and jatrorrhizine-glucuronide were detected in DHB-treated cells only. While DHB treatment provided higher blood concentrations of berberine and most berberine metabolites, both in vitro (Caco-2 cells) and in vivo human studies showed that treatment with LMB resulted in a higher proportion of unmetabolized berberine compared to DHB. These findings suggest potential clinical implications that merit further investigation in future large-scale trials.

Applications and advancements of nanoparticle-based drug delivery in alleviating lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Lung cancer (LC) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Cigarette smoking is among the main aetiologic factors for both ailments. These diseases share common pathogenetic mechanisms including inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue remodelling. Current therapeutic approaches are limited by low efficacy and adverse effects. Consequentially, LC has a 5-year survival of < 20%, while COPD is incurable, underlining the necessity for innovative treatment strategies. Two promising emerging classes of therapy against these diseases include plant-derived molecules (phytoceuticals) and nucleic acid-based therapies. The clinical application of both is limited by issues including poor solubility, poor permeability, and, in the case of nucleic acids, susceptibility to enzymatic degradation, large size, and electrostatic charge density. Nanoparticle-based advanced drug delivery systems are currently being explored as flexible systems allowing to overcome these limitations. In this review, an updated summary of the most recent studies using nanoparticle-based advanced drug delivery systems to improve the delivery of nucleic acids and phytoceuticals for the treatment of LC and COPD is provided. This review highlights the enormous relevance of these delivery systems as tools that are set to facilitate the clinical application of novel categories of therapeutics with poor pharmacokinetic properties.

Berberis vulgaris L. Root Extract as a Multi-Target Chemopreventive Agent against Colon Cancer Causing Apoptosis in Human Colon Adenocarcinoma Cell Lines

Berberis vulgaris L. (Berberidaceae) is a shrub that has been widely used in European folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. The purpose of our study was to elucidate the mechanisms of the chemopreventive action of the plant's methanolic root extract (BVR) against colon cancer cells. Studies were conducted in human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines (LS180 and HT-29) and control colon epithelial CCD841 CoN cells. According to the MTT assay, after 48 h of cell exposure, the IC50 values were as follows: 4.3, 46.1, and 50.2 µg/mL for the LS180, HT-29, and CCD841 CoN cells, respectively, showing the greater sensitivity of the cancer cells to BVR. The Cell Death Detection ELISAPLUS kit demonstrated that BVR induced programmed cell death only against HT-29 cells. Nuclear double staining revealed the great proapoptotic BVR properties in HT-29 cells and subtle effect in LS180 cells. RT-qPCR with the relative quantification method showed significant changes in the expression of genes related to apoptosis in both the LS180 and HT-29 cells. The genes BCL2L1 (126.86-421.43%), BCL2L2 (240-286.02%), CASP3 (177.19-247.83%), and CASP9 (157.99-243.75%) had a significantly elevated expression, while BCL2 (25-52.03%) had a reduced expression compared to the untreated control. Furthermore, in a panel of antioxidant tests, BVR showed positive effects (63.93 ± 0.01, 122.92 ± 0.01, and 220.29 ± 0.02 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/g in the DPPH•, ABTS•+, and ORAC assays, respectively). In the lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibition test, BVR revealed 62.60 ± 0.87% of enzyme inhibition. The chemical composition of BVR was determined using a UHPLC-UV-CAD-MS/MS analysis and confirmed the presence of several known alkaloids, including berberine, as well as other alkaloids and two derivatives of hydroxycinnamic acid (ferulic and sinapic acid hexosides). The results are very promising and encourage the use of BVR as a comprehensive chemopreventive agent (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pro-apoptotic) in colorectal cancer, and were widely discussed alongside data from the literature.

The Janus face of mitophagy in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and recovery

In myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI), moderate mitophagy is a protective or adaptive mechanism because of clearing defective mitochondria accumulates during MIRI. However, excessive mitophagy lead to an increase in defective mitochondria and ultimately exacerbate MIRI by causing overproduction or uncontrolled production of mitochondria. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-induced kinase 1 (Pink1), Parkin, FUN14 domain containing 1 (FUNDC1) and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (BCL-2)/adenovirus E1B19KD interaction protein 3 (BNIP3) are the main mechanistic regulators of mitophagy in MIRI. Pink1 and Parkin are mitochondrial surface proteins involved in the ubiquitin-dependent pathway, while BNIP3 and FUNDC1 are mitochondrial receptor proteins involved in the non-ubiquitin-dependent pathway, which play a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and mitochondrial quality. These proteins can induce moderate mitophagy or inhibit excessive mitophagy to protect against MIRI but may also trigger excessive mitophagy or insufficient mitophagy, thereby worsening the condition. Understanding the actions of these mitophagy mechanistic proteins may provide valuable insights into the pathological mechanisms underlying MIRI development. Based on the above background, this article reviews the mechanism of mitophagy involved in MIRI through Pink1/Parkin pathway and the receptor mediated pathway led by FUNDC1 and BNIP3, as well as the related drug treatment, aim to provide effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of MIRI.

The therapeutic effects of berberine for gastrointestinal cancers

Cancer is one of the most serious human health issues. Drug therapy is the major common way to treat cancer. There is a growing interest in using natural compounds to overcome drug resistance, adverse reactions, and target specificity of certain types of drugs that may affect several targets with fewer side effects and be beneficial against various types of cancer. In this regard, the use of herbal medicines alone or in combination with the main anticancer drugs is commonly available. Berberine (BBR), a nature-driven phytochemical component, is a well-known nutraceutical due to its wide variety of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and hypolipidemic. In addition, BBR exerts anticancer activities. In present article, we summarized the information available on the therapeutic effects of BBR and its mechanisms on five types of the most prevalent gastrointestinal cancers, including esophageal, gastric, colorectal, hepatocarcinoma, and pancreatic cancers.

Uroprotective effects of berberine and curcumin in cyclophosphamide-induced interstitial cystitis

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of berberine (BER) and curcumin (CUR) in the experimental model of cystitis induced by cyclophosphamide (CYP). A total of 36 Wistar-Albino female rats were used in the study. Rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). Normal control group, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) group, CYP group (75 mg/kg), CYP + BER (75 mg/kg CYP and 50 mg/kg BER), CYP + CUR group (75 mg/kg CYP and 50 mg/kg CUR), CYP + BER + CUR group (75 mg/kg CYP and 50 mg/kg BER and 50 mg/kg CUR). Severe edema, hyperemia, hemorrhage, necrosis, and thinning of the epithelial layer were observed in the CYP group. BER and CUR treatment significantly reduced these pathologies. Masson-Trichrome staining was severe in the CYP group and moderate in the CYP + BER, CYP + CUR, and CYP + BER + CUR groups. In the CYP group, there was a severe expression of caspase-3, TNF-α and IL-6, and mild expression of IL-10. BER and CUR treatment decreased the expression of caspase-3, TNF-α, and IL-6 and increased the expression of IL-10. The findings of the study reveal that BER and CUR treatments may reduce CYP-induced bladder damage by reducing apoptosis and inflammation and ameliorating histopathological changes.

Susceptibility of Tetranychus urticae to the Alkaloidal Extract of Zanthoxylum schreberi Bark: Phenotypic and Biochemical Insights for Biotechnological Exploitation

Tetranychus urticae Koch, a phytophagous mite, is one of the most significant crop pests globally. The primary method employed for controlling T. urticae involves chemical means, utilizing synthesized products, posing the risk of developing resistance. The urgency for novel strategies integrated into pest management programs to combat this mite is becoming increasingly imperative. Botanical pesticides emerge as a promising tool to forestall arthropod resistance. Among these, extracts from Rutaceae plants, abundant in bioactive specialized metabolites, have demonstrated potential as insecticides and miticides. In this study, various concentrations of alkaloidal extracts sourced from the bark of Zanthoxylum schreberi J.F.Gmel. (Rutaceae) were evaluated against T. urticae adult females. Furthermore, the extract's combination with three distinct commercial acaricides (i.e., chlorfenapyr, cyflumetofen, and abamectin) was also assessed for this mite. Chemical characterization of the extract via LC-MS allowed for the annotation of various compounds related to ten benzylisoquinoline-derived alkaloids. The extract, both alone and in combination with commercial insecticides, yielded varying responses, inducing over 40% mortality at 2% w/w, demonstrating a 90% repellency rate at the same concentration, and exerting a moderate impact on fecundity. These treatments extended beyond phenotypic responses, delving into the biochemical effects on treated T. urticae females through an exploration of the impact on four enzymes, i.e., acetylcholinesterase (AChE), glutathione S-transferase (GST), esterases (GE), and P450-like monooxygenases (PMO). Employing consensus docking studies and in vitro enzymatic evaluations, it was discovered that the Z. schreberi-derived extract and its constituents significantly affected two key enzymes, AChE and GST (IC50 < 6 µM), which were associated with the phenotypic observations of T. urticae females. The evaluation of alkaloid-rich botanicals showcases promising potential as a relevant biotechnological strategy in addressing mite-related concerns, offering a pathway toward innovative and sustainable pest management solutions.

Novel berberine derivatives as p300 histone acetyltransferase inhibitors in combination treatment for breast cancer

Adenoviral E1A binding protein p300 (EP300 or p300) and its similar paralog, cyclic-AMP response element binding protein (CBP), are important histone acetyltransferases (HAT) and transcriptional co-activators in epigenetics, participating in numerous cellular pathways including proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. The overexpression or dysregulation of p300/CBP is closely related to oncology-relevant disease. The inhibition of p300 HAT has been found to be a potential drug target. Berberine has been reported to show anticancer activity and synergistic effect in combination with some of the clinical anticancer drugs via modulation of various pathways. Here, the present study sought to discover more chemotypes of berberine derivatives as p300 HAT inhibitors and to examine the combination of these novel analogues with doxorubicin for the treatment of breast cancer. A series of novel berberine derivatives with modifications of A/B/D rings of berberine have been designed, synthesized and screened. Compound 7b was found to exhibit inhibitory potency against p300 HAT with IC50 values of 1.51 μM. Western blotting proved that 7b decreased H3K27Ac and interfered with the expression of oncology-relevant protein in MCF-7 cells. Further bioactive evaluation showed that combination of compound 7b with doxorubicin could significantly inhibit tumor growth and invasion in vitro and in vivo.

Bioactive Compounds from Plant Origin as Natural Antimicrobial Agents for the Treatment of Wound Infections

The rising prevalence of drug-resistant bacteria underscores the need to search for innovative and nature-based solutions. One of the approaches may be the use of plants that constitute a rich source of miscellaneous compounds with a wide range of biological properties. This review explores the antimicrobial activity of seven bioactives and their possible molecular mechanisms of action. Special attention was focused on the antibacterial properties of berberine, catechin, chelerythrine, cinnamaldehyde, ellagic acid, proanthocyanidin, and sanguinarine against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The growing interest in novel therapeutic strategies based on new plant-derived formulations was confirmed by the growing number of articles. Natural products are one of the most promising and intensively examined agents to combat the consequences of the overuse and misuse of classical antibiotics.

Comparison of the protective effects of CS/TPP and CS/HPMCP nanoparticles containing berberine in ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity in rat

BACKGROUND

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a globally critical condition with no available efficient treatments.

METHODS

Herein, we generated chitosan (CS) nanoparticles cross-linked with two different agents, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate (HPMCP; termed as CS/HPMCP) and tripolyphosphate (TPP; termed as CS/TPP), and loaded them with berberine (BBr; referred to as CS/HPMCP/BBr and CS/TPP/BBr, respectively). Alongside the encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC), the releasing activity of the nanoparticles was also measured in stimulated gastric fluid (SGF) and stimulated intestinal fluid (SIF) conditions. The effects of the prepared nanoparticles on the viability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were also evaluated. Ultimately, the protective effects of the nanoparticles were investigated in ALD mouse models.

RESULTS

SEM images demonstrated that CS/HPMCP and CS/TPP nanoparticles had an average size of 235.5 ± 42 and 172 ± 21 nm, respectively. The LC and EE for CS/HPMCP/BBr were calculated as 79.78% and 75.79%, respectively; while the LC and EE for CS/TPP/BBr were 84.26% and 80.05%, respectively. pH was a determining factor for releasing BBr from CS/HPMCP nanoparticles as a higher cargo-releasing rate was observed in a less acidic environment. Both the BBr-loaded nanoparticles increased the viability of MSCs in comparison with their BBr-free counterparts. In vivo results demonstrated CS/HPMCP/BBr and CS/TPP/BBr nanoparticles protected enzymatic liver functionality against ethanol-induced damage. They also prevented histopathological ethanol-induced damage.

CONCLUSIONS

Crosslinking CS nanoparticles with HPMCP can mediate controlled drug release in the intestine improving the bioavailability of BBr.