Background:Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide,creating a pressing need to develop novel drugs that inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways.Numerous studies have shown that berberine(BBR)has anti–lung ...Background:Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide,creating a pressing need to develop novel drugs that inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways.Numerous studies have shown that berberine(BBR)has anti–lung cancer potential.We aimed to explore the anti–lung cancer effect of BBR and related mechanisms by targeting the glycogen synthase kinase 3β(GSK3β)/β-catenin pathway.Methods:Lung adenocarcinoma(LUAD)cells A549 and NCI-H1975 were treated with BBR.Results:Our results showed that BBR inhibited cell proliferation by decreasing c-Myc levels and induced cel cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase by lowering cyclin D1 levels.BBR induced apoptosis by upregulating cleaved caspase 3 levels.BBR inhibited cell migration and invasion by decreasing N-cadherin levels.Furthermore,BBR upregulated the expression of GSK3βprotein and phospho-β-catenin proteins in the cytoplasm,while decreasing the expression ofβ-catenin protein.Next,LUAD cel s were exposed to CHIR-99021(a GSK3βinhibitor).This treatment led to an increase in c-Myc,cyclin D1,andβ-catenin levels at specific concentrations.BBR partially reversed the effects of CHIR-99021.Finally,LUAD cells were treated with CHIR-99021(4μmoL/L)combined with BBR(30 and 60μmoL/L)for 24 h.The expression of programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1)was assessed by Western blot analysis.Jurkat T cells and A549 cel s were cocultured for 24 h to examine the lactate dehydrogenase release rate.Results suggested that BBR suppressed the expression of PD-L1 and heightened the immune lethality of T cells.Conclusions:BBR suppressed the proliferative activity of LUAD cell lines A549 and NCI-H1975 in vitro,induced cell cycle arrest and cancer cel apoptosis in the G0/G1 stage,and repressed the migration and invasion of cancer cells.BBR reduced the PD-L1 protein expression and enhanced T-cell–mediated cytotoxicity.These effects appear to be related to BBR's regulation of the GSK3β/β-catenin pathway.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the mechanism underlying the effect of the Huanglian decoction(黄连汤,HLD)on morphine tolerance(MT),using network pharmacology,and to verify these mechanisms in vitro and in vivo.METHODS:Avail...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the mechanism underlying the effect of the Huanglian decoction(黄连汤,HLD)on morphine tolerance(MT),using network pharmacology,and to verify these mechanisms in vitro and in vivo.METHODS:Available biological data on each drug in the HLD were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform.The target proteins of MT were retrieved from the GeneCards,PharmGkb,Therapeutic Target Database,DrugBank,and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man databases.Information regarding MT and the drug targets was compared to obtain overlapping elements.This information was imported into the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins platform to obtain a protein-protein interaction network diagram.Then,a“component-target”network diagram was constructed using screened drug components and target information,via Cytoscape(Institute for Systems Biology,Seattle,WA,USA).The database for annotation,visualization,and integrated discovery was used for Gene Ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways analyses.Pathway information predicted by network pharmacology was verified using animal studies and cell experiments.RESULTS:Network pharmacology analysis identified 22 active compounds of HLD and revealed that HLD partially ameliorated MT by modulating inflammatory,apoptosis,and nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathways.Berberine(BBR),one of the main components of HLD,inhibited the development of MT in mice.BBR reduced cell viability while increasing B-cell lymphoma 2(Bcl-2)protein expression and decreasing CD86,NF-κB,Bax,and Caspase-3 protein expression in brain vascular 2(BV2)mcroglia cells treated with morphine.Additionally,BBR contributed to a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine release and apoptotic cell number.CONCLUSIONS:BBR,a key component of HLD,effectively suppressed microglial activation and neuroinflammation by regulating the NF-κB and apoptosis signaling pathways,thereby delaying MT.This study offers a novel approach to enhance the clinical analgesic efficacy of morphine.展开更多
Hyperglycemia in individuals with diabetes causes cognitive impairment,called diabetic encephalopathy(DE).The pathogenesis of DE is closely related to angiopathy,and effective treatment is highly desirable.The botanic...Hyperglycemia in individuals with diabetes causes cognitive impairment,called diabetic encephalopathy(DE).The pathogenesis of DE is closely related to angiopathy,and effective treatment is highly desirable.The botanical agent berberine(BBR)effectively lowers blood glucose in diabetic patients.Here,we show for the first time that BBR significantly improved cognitive function in type 2 diabetic encephalopathy KK-Ay(2DEK)mice.High-resolution imaging via fluorescence micro-optical sectioning tomography(fMOST)revealed that the integrity of brain vessels was improved by BBR treatment.The improvements in average vessel diameter,vessel length,and total vessel volume were significant in the parietal association cortex(PtA),as well as in the CA1 and CA3 regions.A mechanistic study revealed that oral BBR inhibited δ-valerobetaine(δ-VB,a metabolite of the gut microbiota)production in the intestine.As intestinal δ-VB can enter the circulation and activate the Toll-like receptor-4(TLR-4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88(MyD88)/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-jB)inflammatory pathway in the epithelial cells of blood vessels through interacting with TLR-4,BBR might reduce the intestinal level of δ-VB to protect the cerebral blood vessels of DE mice and improve their brain function.Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)using the gut microbiota from BBR-treated mice confirmed the vital role of the gut microbiota.BBR showed a wide range of effects on the gut flora,also increasing short-chain fatty acid(SCFA)production and decreasing lipopolysaccharide(LPS)levels in the intestine by adjusting the abundance of SCFA-or LPS-producing bacteria.The observed therapeutic efficacy in vivo revealed a synergistic effect of BBR on the gut microbiota.Conclusively,we found an association between the gut microbiota and blood vessels,of which intestinal δ-VB might be a chemical link.Mainly through downregulating δ-VB in the intestine,BBR protected cerebral vessels and alleviated DE.展开更多
Background:Diabetic cardiomyopathy(DCM)is a type of cardiomyopathy caused by long-term diabetes,characterized by abnormal myocardial structure and function,which can lead to heart failure.Berberine(BBR),a quaternary a...Background:Diabetic cardiomyopathy(DCM)is a type of cardiomyopathy caused by long-term diabetes,characterized by abnormal myocardial structure and function,which can lead to heart failure.Berberine(BBR),a quaternary ammonium alkaloid isolated from Coptidis Rhizoma,a traditional Chinese medicine,has superior anti-diabetic and heart-protective properties.The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of BBR on DCM.Methods:This study used a systems pharmacology approach to evaluate the related proteins and signalling pathways between BBR and DCM targets,combined with experimental validation using diabetic mouse heart sections.Microstructural and pathological changes were observed using Hematoxylin-eosin,Masson’s trichrome stain and wheat germ agglutinin staining.Immunofluorescence and western blot were used to determine protein expression.Results:The results indicate that BBR and DCM share 21 core relevant targets,with cross-targets predominantly located in mitochondrial,endoplasmic reticulum,and plasma membrane components.BBR exerts its main effects in improving DCM by maintaining mitochondrial integrity,particularly involving the PI3K-AKT-GSK3βand apoptosis signalling pathways.In addition,post-treatment changes in the key targets of BBR,including cysteine aspartate specific protease(Caspase)-3,phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)and mitochondria-related proteins,are suggestive of its efficacy.Conclusion:BBR crucially improves DCM by maintaining mitochondrial integrity,inhibiting apoptosis,and modulating PI3K-AKT-GSK3βsignaling.Further studies must address animal model limitations and validate clinical efficacy to understand BBR’s mechanisms fully and its potential clinical use.展开更多
Diabetes mellitus(DM)is a serious health problem in the world,and infections are common complications in diabetic patients,particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA)infections,which substantially i...Diabetes mellitus(DM)is a serious health problem in the world,and infections are common complications in diabetic patients,particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA)infections,which substantially increases mortality in patients.In clinical practice,the treatment of diabetic complicationrelated infections involves multiple issues such as drug resistance when combining antidiabetic drugs with antibiotics.In this study,a series of derivatives were synthesized with alkyl radicals with different chain lengths substituted at the C8 and C12 positions of berberine,with compounds CY1 and CY3with good antidiabetic and antibacterial activities screened out after identification.Then,oral liposomes(CY1-Lip and CY3-Lip)were prepared,and their particle sizes,stability,and pharmacokinetics were investigated.In acquired mouse models of diabetes,induced with an acute MRSA lung infection,we demonstrate that CY1-Lip and CY3-Lip can effectively reduce levels of fasting blood glucose(FBG),fasting insulin(FINS),and insulin resistance index among diabetic mice with pneumonia,thus exerting their multitargets effects.Furthermore,both preparations significantly reduced lung MRSA loads and improved lung tissue lesions,reduced high infiltration of M1 macrophages in lung,and suppressed the expression levels of pro-infiammatory factors such as necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and interleukin-6(IL-6).This provides new insights into the clinical treatment of diabetes complicated with pulmonary infections.展开更多
This study explored the therapeutic effect of trimebutine maleate dispersible tablets combined with berberine on PI-IBS rats with liver depression and spleen deficiency.Fifty male rats were divided into five groups:no...This study explored the therapeutic effect of trimebutine maleate dispersible tablets combined with berberine on PI-IBS rats with liver depression and spleen deficiency.Fifty male rats were divided into five groups:normal,model,berberine(XB),trimebutine(QM),and combination(XB+QM).The PI-IBS model was established using maternal separation,TNBS perfusion,and chronic restraint.After 20 days of drug intervention,DAI,CMDI,TDI,AWR scores,histopathology,and expression levels of c-Fos,VIP,NOS,and CHAT in the hippocampus and colon were assessed.The model group showed significant gut and brain changes,while the combination group(XB+QM)improved fecal characteristics,reduced inflammation,regulated brain-gut peptide expression,and alleviated visceral hypersensitivity and colon tissue damage(P<0.05).展开更多
Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome(CP/CPPS)is highly prevalent worldwide and poses a significant threat to men’s health,particularly affecting young men.However,the exact causes and mechanisms behind CP...Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome(CP/CPPS)is highly prevalent worldwide and poses a significant threat to men’s health,particularly affecting young men.However,the exact causes and mechanisms behind CP/CPPS remain unclear,leading to challenges in its treatment.In this research,a CP/CPPS rat model was established with complete Freund’s adjuvant(CFA),and berberine hydrochloride was administered through daily gavage to assess its therapeutic effects.The alterations in the gut microbiome induced by CP/CPPS and berberine hydrochloride were investigated through 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing of cecum content and colonic epithelial cells.To investigate the impact of the gut microbiome on CP/CPPS,a pseudo germ-free rat model was established,and fecal microbiome transplantation(FMT)was performed on these rats.In all,berberine hydrochloride demonstrated effective reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress in the prostate,offering significant therapeutic advantages for CP/CPPS.Through analysis of the gut microbiome using 16S ribosome RNA sequencing,distinct differences were observed between CP/CPPS rats and control rats,and Clostridium butyricum was identified as a key bacteria.Pseudo germ-free rats that underwent FMT from CP/CPPS rats or rats treated with berberine hydrochloride displayed varying levels of inflammatory cytokine production,oxidative stress,and activity of associated signaling pathways.In conclusion,the therapeutic potential of berberine hydrochloride in addressing CP/CPPS is highly significant.The gut microbiome has emerged as a critical factor in the development of CP/CPPS and plays a pivotal role in mediating the therapeutic effects of berberine hydrochloride.展开更多
Objective Berberine(BBR)has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD).This study aims to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods In this study,db/db mice were c...Objective Berberine(BBR)has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD).This study aims to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods In this study,db/db mice were chosen as an animal model for NAFLD.A total of 10 healthy C57BL/6J mice and 30 db/db mice were randomly allocated to one of 4 groups:the normal control(NC)group,the diabetic control(DC)group,the Metformin(MET)therapy group,and the BBR therapy group.The total cholesterol(TC),triacylglycerol(TG),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-c),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-c),aspartate aminotransferase(AST)and alanine aminotransferase(ALT)levels in the serum were measured.The glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px),glutathione(GSH),malondialdehyde(MDA),superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),interleukin(IL)-1β,tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-αand monocyte chemotactic protein 1(MCP-1)levels in liver tissue were measured.Hematoxylin and eosin(H&E),acid-Schiff(PAS)and TUNEL stanning was performed for histopathological analysis.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were conducted to detect the expression levels of key proteins in the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway.Results BBR could improve lipid metabolism,attenuate hepatic steatosis and alleviate liver injury significantly.The excessive oxidative stress,high levels of inflammation and abnormal apoptosis in db/db mice were reversed after BBR intervention.BBR clearly changed the expression of AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK)/Sirtuin 1(SIRT1),and their downstream proteins.Conclusion BBR could reverse NAFLD-related liver injury,likely by activating the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway to inhibit oxidative stress,inflammation and apoptosis in hepatic tissue.展开更多
Background:Global efforts to discover effective therapeutic agents for combating coronavirus disease 19(COVID-19)have intensified the exploration of natural compounds with potential antiviral properties.In this study,...Background:Global efforts to discover effective therapeutic agents for combating coronavirus disease 19(COVID-19)have intensified the exploration of natural compounds with potential antiviral properties.In this study,we utilized network pharmacology and computational analysis to investigate the antiviral effects of Berberine and Kuwanon Z against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2,the viruses responsible for COVID-19.Method:Utilizing comprehensive network pharmacology approaches,we elucidated the complex interactions between these compounds and the host biological system,highlighting their multitarget mechanisms.Network pharmacology identifies COVID-19 targets and compounds through integrated protein‒protein interaction and KEGG pathway analyses.Molecular docking simulation studies were performed to assess the binding affinities and structural interactions of Berberine and Kuwanon Z with key viral proteins,shedding light on their potential inhibitory effects on viral replication and entry.Results:Network-based analyses revealed the modulation of crucial pathways involved in the host antiviral response.Compound-target network analysis revealed complex interactions(122 nodes,121 edges),with significant interactions and an average node degree of 1.37.KEGG analysis revealed pathways such as the COVID-19 pathway,chemokines and Jak-sat in COVID-19.Docking studies revealed that Kuwanon Z had binding energies of-10.5 kcal/mol for JAK2 and-8.1 kcal/mol for the main protease.Conclusion:The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the pharmacological actions of Berberine and Kuwanon Z in the context of COVID-19,providing a basis for further experimental validation.These natural compounds exhibit promise as potential antiviral agents,offering a foundation for the development of novel therapeutic strategies in the ongoing battle against the global pandemic.展开更多
The development of resistance against most of the available antibiotics has made Acinetobacter baumannii(A.baumannii)a pathogen of high risk.In this study,thirty novel berberine derivatives are rationally designed,syn...The development of resistance against most of the available antibiotics has made Acinetobacter baumannii(A.baumannii)a pathogen of high risk.In this study,thirty novel berberine derivatives are rationally designed,synthesized,and evaluated for their synergistic antibacterial activities against A.baumannii.Among them,compound 2d shows the most potent synergetic effect to aztreonam against A.baumannii,including carbapenem-resistant and extended-spectrumβ-lactamases-producing strains.Moreover,synergistic effects were observed for the combinations of 2d and different antibacterial used in clinical practices,indicating its potent broad-spectrum antibiotic-sensitizing effects against A.baumannii.The combination of 2d and aztreonam significantly improves the survival rates of G.mellonella larvae compared with aztreonam treatment alone.Mechanism studies indicate that 2d inhibits the drug efflux and iron acquisition of the bacteria by targeting the AdeB transporter protein,thus achieving a synergistic antimicrobial efficacy with different antibacterial agents.Therefore,berberine derivatives represent a new family of antimicrobial adjuvants against A.baumannii,with the advantage of dual-function antibacterial effect,and are worthy of further investigation.展开更多
Objective:Hepatolenticular degeneration (HLD) is an autosomal recessive disorder that manifests as multiorgan damage due to impaired copper (Cu) metabolism. Female patients with HLD often experience reproductive impai...Objective:Hepatolenticular degeneration (HLD) is an autosomal recessive disorder that manifests as multiorgan damage due to impaired copper (Cu) metabolism. Female patients with HLD often experience reproductive impairments. This study investigated the protective effect of berberine against ovarian damage in toxic-milk (TX) mice, a murine model for HLD.Methods:Mice were categorized into control group, HLD TX group (HLD group), penicillamine (Cu chelator)-treated TX group and berberine-treated TX group. Body weight, ovary weight and the number of ovulated eggs were recorded. Follicular morphology and cellular ultrastructure were examined. Total iron, ferrous iron (Fe2+) and trivalent iron (Fe3+) levels, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione(GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG), were measured in the ovaries. Western blot analysis was used to analyze the expression of proteins related to ferroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.Results:Ovarian tissue damage was evident in the HLD group, with a significant increase in ferroptosis and ER stress compared to the control group. This damage was inhibited by treatment with penicillamine,a Cu chelator. Compared with the HLD group, berberine increased the number of ovulations, and improved ovarian morphology and ultrastructure. Further, we found that berberine reduced total iron,Fe2+, MDA and GSSG levels, elevated GSH levels, decreased the expression of the ferroptosis marker protein prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), and increased glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4)expression. Furthermore, berberine inhibited the expression of ER stress-associated proteins mediated by the protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) pathway.Conclusion:Ferroptosis and ER stress are involved in Cu-induced ovarian damage in TX mice. Berberine ameliorates ovarian damage in HLD TX mice by inhibiting ferroptosis and ER stress.展开更多
Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease that is influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition, obesity, low physical activity, and unhealthy diet a...Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease that is influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition, obesity, low physical activity, and unhealthy diet are key risk factors for T2DM. Result: Type 2 diabetes is treated with various natural medicines, the most significant of which is berberine (BBR). Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid found in various medicinal plants, exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities and (BBR) has the potential to treat various diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion: It has been found to be effective in AMPK activation, regulation of blood glucose and lipids, stimulation of insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, inhibition of cancer cells, and reduction of fat formation.展开更多
Objective:Patients with colon adenocarcinoma(COAD)who undergo radiation therapy develop radiation enteritis(RE).The predictive value of RE in COAD is yet to be established.Berberine,an active compound derived from the...Objective:Patients with colon adenocarcinoma(COAD)who undergo radiation therapy develop radiation enteritis(RE).The predictive value of RE in COAD is yet to be established.Berberine,an active compound derived from the traditional Chinese medicinal plant,Coptis chinensis,has notable anti-inflammatory properties and offers protection to the intestinal mucosa.This study aimed to evaluate the possible therapeutic effect and mechanism of berberine as a treatment for COAD complicated with RE(COAD&RE).Methods:Relevant genetic features of diverse COAD&RE populations were analyzed using bioinformatics and the Cox proportional hazards regression model.The therapeutic targets of berberine were predicted using network pharmacology and molecular docking.In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to validate the core genes identified using molecular docking.Results:RE has a certain impact on the prognosis of COAD and berberine may play an important role in the treatment of COAD&RE.In addition,we identified five core therapeutic targets of berberine by network pharmacology and molecular docking:CCND1,MYC,AR,LEP,and CYP19A1.In vivo experiments showed that berberine increased short-term survival rate,body weight,and intestinal epithelial cell recovery in mice after radiation.In an in vitro study,berberine promoted the proliferation of human intestinal epithelial cells and enhanced the radiosensitivity of HT29 cells after radiation,and the relative mRNA expression levels of CCND1 and MYC closely correlated with these effects.Conclusions:This study predicted the potential therapeutic effects of berberine on COAD&RE and verified the relevant mechanisms,which may provide insights and suggestions for the clinical treatment of COAD&RE.展开更多
Aim To establish a reversed phase liquid chromatographic method forsimultaneous determination of three main medicinal constituents, baicalin, berberine and rhein, inSanhuang tablets. Methods The separation was perform...Aim To establish a reversed phase liquid chromatographic method forsimultaneous determination of three main medicinal constituents, baicalin, berberine and rhein, inSanhuang tablets. Methods The separation was performed on a Kromasil C_(18) column with TEA-adjusted0.02 mol·L^(-1) H_3PO_4 (pH 6.78)-acetonitrile-methanol (40 : 9 : 7) as mobile phase at aflow-rate of 1.0 mL·min^(-1), with detection at 254 ran. Considering interaction between acidic andalkaline compounds, three standard markers were added respectively and the volume of samplesolution was doubled in recovery experiments. Results Three regression equations revealed excellentlinear relationship between the peak areas and concentrations and the correlation coefficients allsurpassed 0.999 8. The average recovery was 96.1% (RSD = 2.1%) baicalin, 98.5% (RSD = 2.4%) forberberine, and 101.5% (RSD =1.3%) for rhein. Conclusion The method developed can be used to controlthe quality of Sanhuang tablets comprehensively.展开更多
Aim To investigate the effect in berberine chloride （BER） on experimental ulcerative colitis in mice. Methods BALB/C mice in 6 groups were allowed to drink either 4% dextran sulfate sodium （DSS） solution or distil...Aim To investigate the effect in berberine chloride （BER） on experimental ulcerative colitis in mice. Methods BALB/C mice in 6 groups were allowed to drink either 4% dextran sulfate sodium （DSS） solution or distilled water freely with different doses of BER （15 mg·kg^-1, 45 mg·kg^-1, 150 mg·kg^-1） or sallcylazosulfapyridine （SASP, 520 mg·kg^-1）, and solvent （0. 2 mL/10 mg Wt） once a day for 7 d, respectively. The symptom of ulcerative colitis was evaluated by disease activity index （DAI）. Myeloperoxidase （MPO） and superoxide dismutase （SOD） activities and malondialdehyde （MDA） content were determined by HE staining and immunohistochemistry of expressions of NF-κB p65 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 （ ICAM-1 ） proteins to observe the damage to colon tissues and possible mechanisms. Results DAI, MPO activity, MDA content and expressions of ICAM-1 and NF-κB p65 were markedly increased, while SOD activity decreased in DSS-treated mice. Treatment of mice with different doses of BER or SASP significantly decreased DAI, MPO activity and MDA content, improved histological changes of colon tissues, blunted the expressions of NF-κB p65 and ICAM-1 proteins, and enhanced SOD activity. Conclusion Berberine chloride has excellent therapeutic effect on ulcerative colitis caused by DSS in mice. The possible mechanism may be related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities associated with inhibiting the NF-κB activation and ICAM-1 expression.展开更多
Berberine （BBR） has a variety of pharmacological activities. Studies have reported that BBR not only reduces heat stress-induced fever but also inhibits lower body temperatures due to cold stress. Heat stress can be...Berberine （BBR） has a variety of pharmacological activities. Studies have reported that BBR not only reduces heat stress-induced fever but also inhibits lower body temperatures due to cold stress. Heat stress can be reduced via BBR treatment, which antagonizes HSP70-TNFa to regulate the body temperature alteration. In cold stress, however, the molecular mechanism of BBR-induced inhibition of hypothermia remains unclear. Therefore, we studied whether BBR promoted uncoupling protein 1 （UCP1, a crucial protein of thermogenesis） expression and its mechanism under cold stress. Wild type mice and Ucpl-/- mice were used for the in vivo experiments, and primary brown adipocytes and brown adipocytes HIB-1B were used for the in vitro studies. The cold stress was set at 4℃. The results showed that at 4℃, the body temperature of mice was decreased. BBR effectively inhibited this hypothermia. Simultaneously, Ucpl expression in brown adipose tissue （BAT） cells was significantly increased, and BBR promoted Ucpl expression. However, in Ucpl-knockout mice, the effect of BBR on hypothermia disappeared during cold stress, indicating that the main target for BBR regulation of body temperature was Ucpl. Further studies showed that the transcriptional response element NFE2 （nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2） in the upstream of the Ucpl promoter region contributed to the positive regulatory role on Ucpl expression at lower temperature. BBR could bind to the sequence of NFE2 response element in a temperature-dependent manner. Increased affinity of BBR binding to NFE2 response element in cold stress significantly strengthened and enhanced the expression of Ucpl. This work was important for understanding the role of BBR on thermogenesis in BAT, body temperature regulation and temperature tolerance under cold conditions.展开更多
Aim To investigate the effect of berberine on damaged morphology and glucolipid metabolization in skeletal muscle of diabetic rat and the relationship between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor （PPARs） α/γ...Aim To investigate the effect of berberine on damaged morphology and glucolipid metabolization in skeletal muscle of diabetic rat and the relationship between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor （PPARs） α/γ/δ protein expression. Methods Type 2 diabetes mellitus rats were induced by an injection of 35 mg.kg^-1 streptozotocin （STZ） and a high-carbohydrate/ high-fat diet for 16 weeks. From week 17 to 32, diabetic rats were given low-, middle-, high-dose berberine （75, 150, 300 mg.kg^-1）, fenofibrate （100 mg.kg^-1） and rosiglitazone （4 mg.kg^-1） by oral administration, respectively. The skeletal muscle structure was observed with hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining, glycogen and triglyceride contents were measured by spectrophotometry and PPAR α/γ/δ protein expressions were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results Fiber distribution remained normal in skeletal muscles of all the groups, middle-, high-dose berberine partly improved diabetic fibre atrophy, increased glycogen and decreased triglyceride levels in diabetic muscle （P〈 0.01）. Middle-, high-dose berberine and rosiglitazone all significantly reduced PPARy protein level in diabetic skeletal muscle （P 〈 0.01）; middle-, high-dose berberine and fenofibrate strikingly increased both PPARu and PPAR8 expression （P〈 0.01）. Conclusion Berberine modulates PPAR α/γ/δ protein expression in diabetic skeletal muscle which may contribute to ameliorate fibre damage and glucolipid metabolization.展开更多
The intestinal absorption ofberberine （Ber） and its structural modified compound 8-hydroxy dihydroberberine （Hdber） was compared, and their effects on the intestinal absorption of sugar by per- fusion experiment w...The intestinal absorption ofberberine （Ber） and its structural modified compound 8-hydroxy dihydroberberine （Hdber） was compared, and their effects on the intestinal absorption of sugar by per- fusion experiment were investigated in order to reveal the mechanism of low dose and high activity of Hdber in the treatment of hyperglycemia. The absorption of Hdber and Ber in rat small intestine was measured by in situ perfusion. High performance liquid chromatography （HPLC） was used to determine the concentrations of Hdber and Ber. In situ perfusion method was also used to study the effects of Hdber and Ber on sugar intestinal absorption. Glucose oxidase method and UV spectrophotometry were applied to examine the concentrations of glucose and sucrose in the perfusion fluid. The results showed that the absorption rate of Ber in the small intestine was lower than I0%, but that of Hdber was larger than 70%. Both Hdber and Ber inhibited the absorption of glucose and sucrose at the doses of 10 and 20 ~tg/mL. However, Hdber presented stronger activity than Bet （P〈0.01）. It is suggested that Hdber is ab- sorbed easily in rat small intestine and that its inhibitory effect on the absorption of sugar is better than Ber.展开更多
Effects of berberine (Ber) on platelet aggregation and TXB2 and 6 keto PGF1a plasma levels were studied in rabbits with uncomplete cerebral ischemia. Ber inhibited uncomplete cerebral ischemic rabbit platelet aggreg...Effects of berberine (Ber) on platelet aggregation and TXB2 and 6 keto PGF1a plasma levels were studied in rabbits with uncomplete cerebral ischemia. Ber inhibited uncomplete cerebral ischemic rabbit platelet aggregation triggered by collagen, ADP, and arachidonic acid (AA) with the IC 50 of 0.15, 0.46, and 0.51 mg·ml 1 , respectively. In rabbits, Ber 25, or 50 mg·kg 1 iv 30 min after uncomplete cerebral ischemia, restrained the collagen ADP and AA induced platelet aggregation determined 90 min later. With radioimmunoassay, we measured the thromboxane B2 (TXB 2) and 6 ketoprostaglandin F 1α (6 keto PGF 1α ) contents in rabbit plasma. The results indicated that the TXB 2 level in rabbit 120 min after uncomplete cerebral ischemia (921±539 pg·ml 1 ) was higher than that (230±71 pg·ml 1 ) in normal rabbits ( P < 0.01), but 6 keto PGF 1α level after ischemia (73±23pg·ml 1 ) was lower than that (262±988pg·ml 1 ) in normal rabbit. Ber (5, 25 or 50 mg·kg 1 ) reduced obviously the plasma TXB 2 level in rabbit with uncomplete cerebral ischemia (504±196, 386±174, or 272±183 vs 921±539 pg·ml 1 , respectively, P < 0.01). We conclude that the decrease of TXB 2 content is one of the possible mechanisms of Ber anti cerebral ischemic effect.展开更多
The content of berberine hydrochloride(BH)in compound berberine tablets(CBTs)is subject to strict requirements.Its content is usually measured based on chemical analysis.In this paper,the fluorescence spectral imaging...The content of berberine hydrochloride(BH)in compound berberine tablets(CBTs)is subject to strict requirements.Its content is usually measured based on chemical analysis.In this paper,the fluorescence spectral imaging method was used to study the relative content of BH from a physics perspective.By comparing the relative fluorescence intensity of self-made CBTs with di®erent mass percentages of BH,a linear positive relationship was observed between the BH content and the relative fluorescence intensity,and accordingly the quality of CBTs of different brands was evaluated.The results indicate that the fluorescence spectral imaging method can be a simple,fast and nondestructive semi-quantitative analysis method to determine the content of BH in CBTs,and this method has great potential in the quality control of CBTs.展开更多
基金Supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(no.82174457)。
文摘Background:Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide,creating a pressing need to develop novel drugs that inhibit oncogenic signaling pathways.Numerous studies have shown that berberine(BBR)has anti–lung cancer potential.We aimed to explore the anti–lung cancer effect of BBR and related mechanisms by targeting the glycogen synthase kinase 3β(GSK3β)/β-catenin pathway.Methods:Lung adenocarcinoma(LUAD)cells A549 and NCI-H1975 were treated with BBR.Results:Our results showed that BBR inhibited cell proliferation by decreasing c-Myc levels and induced cel cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase by lowering cyclin D1 levels.BBR induced apoptosis by upregulating cleaved caspase 3 levels.BBR inhibited cell migration and invasion by decreasing N-cadherin levels.Furthermore,BBR upregulated the expression of GSK3βprotein and phospho-β-catenin proteins in the cytoplasm,while decreasing the expression ofβ-catenin protein.Next,LUAD cel s were exposed to CHIR-99021(a GSK3βinhibitor).This treatment led to an increase in c-Myc,cyclin D1,andβ-catenin levels at specific concentrations.BBR partially reversed the effects of CHIR-99021.Finally,LUAD cells were treated with CHIR-99021(4μmoL/L)combined with BBR(30 and 60μmoL/L)for 24 h.The expression of programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1)was assessed by Western blot analysis.Jurkat T cells and A549 cel s were cocultured for 24 h to examine the lactate dehydrogenase release rate.Results suggested that BBR suppressed the expression of PD-L1 and heightened the immune lethality of T cells.Conclusions:BBR suppressed the proliferative activity of LUAD cell lines A549 and NCI-H1975 in vitro,induced cell cycle arrest and cancer cel apoptosis in the G0/G1 stage,and repressed the migration and invasion of cancer cells.BBR reduced the PD-L1 protein expression and enhanced T-cell–mediated cytotoxicity.These effects appear to be related to BBR's regulation of the GSK3β/β-catenin pathway.
基金Natural Science Foundation-funded Project:Study on the Mechanism of Mechanical Stress Sensing Element Piezo Type Mechanosensitive Ion Channel Component 2 Interacting with Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4 Group A Member 2 Mediating Traumatic Brain Injury(No.82172190)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the mechanism underlying the effect of the Huanglian decoction(黄连汤,HLD)on morphine tolerance(MT),using network pharmacology,and to verify these mechanisms in vitro and in vivo.METHODS:Available biological data on each drug in the HLD were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform.The target proteins of MT were retrieved from the GeneCards,PharmGkb,Therapeutic Target Database,DrugBank,and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man databases.Information regarding MT and the drug targets was compared to obtain overlapping elements.This information was imported into the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins platform to obtain a protein-protein interaction network diagram.Then,a“component-target”network diagram was constructed using screened drug components and target information,via Cytoscape(Institute for Systems Biology,Seattle,WA,USA).The database for annotation,visualization,and integrated discovery was used for Gene Ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways analyses.Pathway information predicted by network pharmacology was verified using animal studies and cell experiments.RESULTS:Network pharmacology analysis identified 22 active compounds of HLD and revealed that HLD partially ameliorated MT by modulating inflammatory,apoptosis,and nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathways.Berberine(BBR),one of the main components of HLD,inhibited the development of MT in mice.BBR reduced cell viability while increasing B-cell lymphoma 2(Bcl-2)protein expression and decreasing CD86,NF-κB,Bax,and Caspase-3 protein expression in brain vascular 2(BV2)mcroglia cells treated with morphine.Additionally,BBR contributed to a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine release and apoptotic cell number.CONCLUSIONS:BBR,a key component of HLD,effectively suppressed microglial activation and neuroinflammation by regulating the NF-κB and apoptosis signaling pathways,thereby delaying MT.This study offers a novel approach to enhance the clinical analgesic efficacy of morphine.
基金funded by the National Key Research and Devel-opment Program of China(2022YFA0806400)the CAMS Innova-tion Fund for Medical Sciences(CIFMS)(2023-I2M-2-006,2021-1-I2M-027,and 2021-1-I2M-028)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82173888 and 81973290)the Beijing Key Laboratory of Non-Clinical Drug Metabolism and PK/PD Study(Z141102004414062).
文摘Hyperglycemia in individuals with diabetes causes cognitive impairment,called diabetic encephalopathy(DE).The pathogenesis of DE is closely related to angiopathy,and effective treatment is highly desirable.The botanical agent berberine(BBR)effectively lowers blood glucose in diabetic patients.Here,we show for the first time that BBR significantly improved cognitive function in type 2 diabetic encephalopathy KK-Ay(2DEK)mice.High-resolution imaging via fluorescence micro-optical sectioning tomography(fMOST)revealed that the integrity of brain vessels was improved by BBR treatment.The improvements in average vessel diameter,vessel length,and total vessel volume were significant in the parietal association cortex(PtA),as well as in the CA1 and CA3 regions.A mechanistic study revealed that oral BBR inhibited δ-valerobetaine(δ-VB,a metabolite of the gut microbiota)production in the intestine.As intestinal δ-VB can enter the circulation and activate the Toll-like receptor-4(TLR-4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88(MyD88)/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-jB)inflammatory pathway in the epithelial cells of blood vessels through interacting with TLR-4,BBR might reduce the intestinal level of δ-VB to protect the cerebral blood vessels of DE mice and improve their brain function.Fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)using the gut microbiota from BBR-treated mice confirmed the vital role of the gut microbiota.BBR showed a wide range of effects on the gut flora,also increasing short-chain fatty acid(SCFA)production and decreasing lipopolysaccharide(LPS)levels in the intestine by adjusting the abundance of SCFA-or LPS-producing bacteria.The observed therapeutic efficacy in vivo revealed a synergistic effect of BBR on the gut microbiota.Conclusively,we found an association between the gut microbiota and blood vessels,of which intestinal δ-VB might be a chemical link.Mainly through downregulating δ-VB in the intestine,BBR protected cerebral vessels and alleviated DE.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.82270892)Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province(Grant No.2022CFB287)+2 种基金Xianning City Science and Technology Plan Project(Grant No.2022ZRKX052)School projects of Hubei University of Science and Technology(Grant No.2022T01,2021WG05,2021TNB01)Hubei University of Science and Technology School-level Fund(Grant No.BK202122).
文摘Background:Diabetic cardiomyopathy(DCM)is a type of cardiomyopathy caused by long-term diabetes,characterized by abnormal myocardial structure and function,which can lead to heart failure.Berberine(BBR),a quaternary ammonium alkaloid isolated from Coptidis Rhizoma,a traditional Chinese medicine,has superior anti-diabetic and heart-protective properties.The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of BBR on DCM.Methods:This study used a systems pharmacology approach to evaluate the related proteins and signalling pathways between BBR and DCM targets,combined with experimental validation using diabetic mouse heart sections.Microstructural and pathological changes were observed using Hematoxylin-eosin,Masson’s trichrome stain and wheat germ agglutinin staining.Immunofluorescence and western blot were used to determine protein expression.Results:The results indicate that BBR and DCM share 21 core relevant targets,with cross-targets predominantly located in mitochondrial,endoplasmic reticulum,and plasma membrane components.BBR exerts its main effects in improving DCM by maintaining mitochondrial integrity,particularly involving the PI3K-AKT-GSK3βand apoptosis signalling pathways.In addition,post-treatment changes in the key targets of BBR,including cysteine aspartate specific protease(Caspase)-3,phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)and mitochondria-related proteins,are suggestive of its efficacy.Conclusion:BBR crucially improves DCM by maintaining mitochondrial integrity,inhibiting apoptosis,and modulating PI3K-AKT-GSK3βsignaling.Further studies must address animal model limitations and validate clinical efficacy to understand BBR’s mechanisms fully and its potential clinical use.
基金financial support provided by Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32201086)Postdoctoral Science Foundation of Chongqing Natural Science Foundation(No.cstc2021jcyj-bsh X0125)the project for Chongqing University Innovation Research Group,Chongqing Education Committee(No.CXQT20006)。
文摘Diabetes mellitus(DM)is a serious health problem in the world,and infections are common complications in diabetic patients,particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA)infections,which substantially increases mortality in patients.In clinical practice,the treatment of diabetic complicationrelated infections involves multiple issues such as drug resistance when combining antidiabetic drugs with antibiotics.In this study,a series of derivatives were synthesized with alkyl radicals with different chain lengths substituted at the C8 and C12 positions of berberine,with compounds CY1 and CY3with good antidiabetic and antibacterial activities screened out after identification.Then,oral liposomes(CY1-Lip and CY3-Lip)were prepared,and their particle sizes,stability,and pharmacokinetics were investigated.In acquired mouse models of diabetes,induced with an acute MRSA lung infection,we demonstrate that CY1-Lip and CY3-Lip can effectively reduce levels of fasting blood glucose(FBG),fasting insulin(FINS),and insulin resistance index among diabetic mice with pneumonia,thus exerting their multitargets effects.Furthermore,both preparations significantly reduced lung MRSA loads and improved lung tissue lesions,reduced high infiltration of M1 macrophages in lung,and suppressed the expression levels of pro-infiammatory factors such as necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and interleukin-6(IL-6).This provides new insights into the clinical treatment of diabetes complicated with pulmonary infections.
基金Science and Technology Fund Project of Guizhou Provincial Health Commission(Project No.:gawkj2021-225).
文摘This study explored the therapeutic effect of trimebutine maleate dispersible tablets combined with berberine on PI-IBS rats with liver depression and spleen deficiency.Fifty male rats were divided into five groups:normal,model,berberine(XB),trimebutine(QM),and combination(XB+QM).The PI-IBS model was established using maternal separation,TNBS perfusion,and chronic restraint.After 20 days of drug intervention,DAI,CMDI,TDI,AWR scores,histopathology,and expression levels of c-Fos,VIP,NOS,and CHAT in the hippocampus and colon were assessed.The model group showed significant gut and brain changes,while the combination group(XB+QM)improved fecal characteristics,reduced inflammation,regulated brain-gut peptide expression,and alleviated visceral hypersensitivity and colon tissue damage(P<0.05).
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,No.82370701 and No.82002701).
文摘Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome(CP/CPPS)is highly prevalent worldwide and poses a significant threat to men’s health,particularly affecting young men.However,the exact causes and mechanisms behind CP/CPPS remain unclear,leading to challenges in its treatment.In this research,a CP/CPPS rat model was established with complete Freund’s adjuvant(CFA),and berberine hydrochloride was administered through daily gavage to assess its therapeutic effects.The alterations in the gut microbiome induced by CP/CPPS and berberine hydrochloride were investigated through 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing of cecum content and colonic epithelial cells.To investigate the impact of the gut microbiome on CP/CPPS,a pseudo germ-free rat model was established,and fecal microbiome transplantation(FMT)was performed on these rats.In all,berberine hydrochloride demonstrated effective reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress in the prostate,offering significant therapeutic advantages for CP/CPPS.Through analysis of the gut microbiome using 16S ribosome RNA sequencing,distinct differences were observed between CP/CPPS rats and control rats,and Clostridium butyricum was identified as a key bacteria.Pseudo germ-free rats that underwent FMT from CP/CPPS rats or rats treated with berberine hydrochloride displayed varying levels of inflammatory cytokine production,oxidative stress,and activity of associated signaling pathways.In conclusion,the therapeutic potential of berberine hydrochloride in addressing CP/CPPS is highly significant.The gut microbiome has emerged as a critical factor in the development of CP/CPPS and plays a pivotal role in mediating the therapeutic effects of berberine hydrochloride.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81803799)Hubei Province Natural Science Foundation of China(No.2022CFB092).
文摘Objective Berberine(BBR)has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD).This study aims to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods In this study,db/db mice were chosen as an animal model for NAFLD.A total of 10 healthy C57BL/6J mice and 30 db/db mice were randomly allocated to one of 4 groups:the normal control(NC)group,the diabetic control(DC)group,the Metformin(MET)therapy group,and the BBR therapy group.The total cholesterol(TC),triacylglycerol(TG),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-c),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-c),aspartate aminotransferase(AST)and alanine aminotransferase(ALT)levels in the serum were measured.The glutathione peroxidase(GSH-Px),glutathione(GSH),malondialdehyde(MDA),superoxide dismutase(SOD),catalase(CAT),interleukin(IL)-1β,tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-αand monocyte chemotactic protein 1(MCP-1)levels in liver tissue were measured.Hematoxylin and eosin(H&E),acid-Schiff(PAS)and TUNEL stanning was performed for histopathological analysis.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were conducted to detect the expression levels of key proteins in the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway.Results BBR could improve lipid metabolism,attenuate hepatic steatosis and alleviate liver injury significantly.The excessive oxidative stress,high levels of inflammation and abnormal apoptosis in db/db mice were reversed after BBR intervention.BBR clearly changed the expression of AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK)/Sirtuin 1(SIRT1),and their downstream proteins.Conclusion BBR could reverse NAFLD-related liver injury,likely by activating the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway to inhibit oxidative stress,inflammation and apoptosis in hepatic tissue.
文摘Background:Global efforts to discover effective therapeutic agents for combating coronavirus disease 19(COVID-19)have intensified the exploration of natural compounds with potential antiviral properties.In this study,we utilized network pharmacology and computational analysis to investigate the antiviral effects of Berberine and Kuwanon Z against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2,the viruses responsible for COVID-19.Method:Utilizing comprehensive network pharmacology approaches,we elucidated the complex interactions between these compounds and the host biological system,highlighting their multitarget mechanisms.Network pharmacology identifies COVID-19 targets and compounds through integrated protein‒protein interaction and KEGG pathway analyses.Molecular docking simulation studies were performed to assess the binding affinities and structural interactions of Berberine and Kuwanon Z with key viral proteins,shedding light on their potential inhibitory effects on viral replication and entry.Results:Network-based analyses revealed the modulation of crucial pathways involved in the host antiviral response.Compound-target network analysis revealed complex interactions(122 nodes,121 edges),with significant interactions and an average node degree of 1.37.KEGG analysis revealed pathways such as the COVID-19 pathway,chemokines and Jak-sat in COVID-19.Docking studies revealed that Kuwanon Z had binding energies of-10.5 kcal/mol for JAK2 and-8.1 kcal/mol for the main protease.Conclusion:The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the pharmacological actions of Berberine and Kuwanon Z in the context of COVID-19,providing a basis for further experimental validation.These natural compounds exhibit promise as potential antiviral agents,offering a foundation for the development of novel therapeutic strategies in the ongoing battle against the global pandemic.
基金supported by grants from National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.32141003,82104013)CAMS Initiative for Innovative Medicine(Nos.2021-1-I2M-070,2021-1-I2M-039,China)。
文摘The development of resistance against most of the available antibiotics has made Acinetobacter baumannii(A.baumannii)a pathogen of high risk.In this study,thirty novel berberine derivatives are rationally designed,synthesized,and evaluated for their synergistic antibacterial activities against A.baumannii.Among them,compound 2d shows the most potent synergetic effect to aztreonam against A.baumannii,including carbapenem-resistant and extended-spectrumβ-lactamases-producing strains.Moreover,synergistic effects were observed for the combinations of 2d and different antibacterial used in clinical practices,indicating its potent broad-spectrum antibiotic-sensitizing effects against A.baumannii.The combination of 2d and aztreonam significantly improves the survival rates of G.mellonella larvae compared with aztreonam treatment alone.Mechanism studies indicate that 2d inhibits the drug efflux and iron acquisition of the bacteria by targeting the AdeB transporter protein,thus achieving a synergistic antimicrobial efficacy with different antibacterial agents.Therefore,berberine derivatives represent a new family of antimicrobial adjuvants against A.baumannii,with the advantage of dual-function antibacterial effect,and are worthy of further investigation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 82374212, No. 81971446 and No. 81673811)the Clinical Special Translational Project of the Anhui Provincial Science and Technology Department (No. 202204295107020044)the Key Project of the Anhui Provincial Department of Education (No. 2022AH050523)。
文摘Objective:Hepatolenticular degeneration (HLD) is an autosomal recessive disorder that manifests as multiorgan damage due to impaired copper (Cu) metabolism. Female patients with HLD often experience reproductive impairments. This study investigated the protective effect of berberine against ovarian damage in toxic-milk (TX) mice, a murine model for HLD.Methods:Mice were categorized into control group, HLD TX group (HLD group), penicillamine (Cu chelator)-treated TX group and berberine-treated TX group. Body weight, ovary weight and the number of ovulated eggs were recorded. Follicular morphology and cellular ultrastructure were examined. Total iron, ferrous iron (Fe2+) and trivalent iron (Fe3+) levels, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione(GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG), were measured in the ovaries. Western blot analysis was used to analyze the expression of proteins related to ferroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.Results:Ovarian tissue damage was evident in the HLD group, with a significant increase in ferroptosis and ER stress compared to the control group. This damage was inhibited by treatment with penicillamine,a Cu chelator. Compared with the HLD group, berberine increased the number of ovulations, and improved ovarian morphology and ultrastructure. Further, we found that berberine reduced total iron,Fe2+, MDA and GSSG levels, elevated GSH levels, decreased the expression of the ferroptosis marker protein prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), and increased glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4)expression. Furthermore, berberine inhibited the expression of ER stress-associated proteins mediated by the protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) pathway.Conclusion:Ferroptosis and ER stress are involved in Cu-induced ovarian damage in TX mice. Berberine ameliorates ovarian damage in HLD TX mice by inhibiting ferroptosis and ER stress.
文摘Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease that is influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition, obesity, low physical activity, and unhealthy diet are key risk factors for T2DM. Result: Type 2 diabetes is treated with various natural medicines, the most significant of which is berberine (BBR). Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid found in various medicinal plants, exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities and (BBR) has the potential to treat various diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion: It has been found to be effective in AMPK activation, regulation of blood glucose and lipids, stimulation of insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, inhibition of cancer cells, and reduction of fat formation.
文摘Objective:Patients with colon adenocarcinoma(COAD)who undergo radiation therapy develop radiation enteritis(RE).The predictive value of RE in COAD is yet to be established.Berberine,an active compound derived from the traditional Chinese medicinal plant,Coptis chinensis,has notable anti-inflammatory properties and offers protection to the intestinal mucosa.This study aimed to evaluate the possible therapeutic effect and mechanism of berberine as a treatment for COAD complicated with RE(COAD&RE).Methods:Relevant genetic features of diverse COAD&RE populations were analyzed using bioinformatics and the Cox proportional hazards regression model.The therapeutic targets of berberine were predicted using network pharmacology and molecular docking.In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to validate the core genes identified using molecular docking.Results:RE has a certain impact on the prognosis of COAD and berberine may play an important role in the treatment of COAD&RE.In addition,we identified five core therapeutic targets of berberine by network pharmacology and molecular docking:CCND1,MYC,AR,LEP,and CYP19A1.In vivo experiments showed that berberine increased short-term survival rate,body weight,and intestinal epithelial cell recovery in mice after radiation.In an in vitro study,berberine promoted the proliferation of human intestinal epithelial cells and enhanced the radiosensitivity of HT29 cells after radiation,and the relative mRNA expression levels of CCND1 and MYC closely correlated with these effects.Conclusions:This study predicted the potential therapeutic effects of berberine on COAD&RE and verified the relevant mechanisms,which may provide insights and suggestions for the clinical treatment of COAD&RE.
基金Innovation Fund of Chinese Academy of Sciences(KGCX2 SW 213 05)
文摘Aim To establish a reversed phase liquid chromatographic method forsimultaneous determination of three main medicinal constituents, baicalin, berberine and rhein, inSanhuang tablets. Methods The separation was performed on a Kromasil C_(18) column with TEA-adjusted0.02 mol·L^(-1) H_3PO_4 (pH 6.78)-acetonitrile-methanol (40 : 9 : 7) as mobile phase at aflow-rate of 1.0 mL·min^(-1), with detection at 254 ran. Considering interaction between acidic andalkaline compounds, three standard markers were added respectively and the volume of samplesolution was doubled in recovery experiments. Results Three regression equations revealed excellentlinear relationship between the peak areas and concentrations and the correlation coefficients allsurpassed 0.999 8. The average recovery was 96.1% (RSD = 2.1%) baicalin, 98.5% (RSD = 2.4%) forberberine, and 101.5% (RSD =1.3%) for rhein. Conclusion The method developed can be used to controlthe quality of Sanhuang tablets comprehensively.
基金AProject of the Health Bureau of Chongqing (No.2004-B-31)
文摘Aim To investigate the effect in berberine chloride （BER） on experimental ulcerative colitis in mice. Methods BALB/C mice in 6 groups were allowed to drink either 4% dextran sulfate sodium （DSS） solution or distilled water freely with different doses of BER （15 mg·kg^-1, 45 mg·kg^-1, 150 mg·kg^-1） or sallcylazosulfapyridine （SASP, 520 mg·kg^-1）, and solvent （0. 2 mL/10 mg Wt） once a day for 7 d, respectively. The symptom of ulcerative colitis was evaluated by disease activity index （DAI）. Myeloperoxidase （MPO） and superoxide dismutase （SOD） activities and malondialdehyde （MDA） content were determined by HE staining and immunohistochemistry of expressions of NF-κB p65 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 （ ICAM-1 ） proteins to observe the damage to colon tissues and possible mechanisms. Results DAI, MPO activity, MDA content and expressions of ICAM-1 and NF-κB p65 were markedly increased, while SOD activity decreased in DSS-treated mice. Treatment of mice with different doses of BER or SASP significantly decreased DAI, MPO activity and MDA content, improved histological changes of colon tissues, blunted the expressions of NF-κB p65 and ICAM-1 proteins, and enhanced SOD activity. Conclusion Berberine chloride has excellent therapeutic effect on ulcerative colitis caused by DSS in mice. The possible mechanism may be related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities associated with inhibiting the NF-κB activation and ICAM-1 expression.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.81374006,81073092 and 90713043)
文摘Berberine （BBR） has a variety of pharmacological activities. Studies have reported that BBR not only reduces heat stress-induced fever but also inhibits lower body temperatures due to cold stress. Heat stress can be reduced via BBR treatment, which antagonizes HSP70-TNFa to regulate the body temperature alteration. In cold stress, however, the molecular mechanism of BBR-induced inhibition of hypothermia remains unclear. Therefore, we studied whether BBR promoted uncoupling protein 1 （UCP1, a crucial protein of thermogenesis） expression and its mechanism under cold stress. Wild type mice and Ucpl-/- mice were used for the in vivo experiments, and primary brown adipocytes and brown adipocytes HIB-1B were used for the in vitro studies. The cold stress was set at 4℃. The results showed that at 4℃, the body temperature of mice was decreased. BBR effectively inhibited this hypothermia. Simultaneously, Ucpl expression in brown adipose tissue （BAT） cells was significantly increased, and BBR promoted Ucpl expression. However, in Ucpl-knockout mice, the effect of BBR on hypothermia disappeared during cold stress, indicating that the main target for BBR regulation of body temperature was Ucpl. Further studies showed that the transcriptional response element NFE2 （nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2） in the upstream of the Ucpl promoter region contributed to the positive regulatory role on Ucpl expression at lower temperature. BBR could bind to the sequence of NFE2 response element in a temperature-dependent manner. Increased affinity of BBR binding to NFE2 response element in cold stress significantly strengthened and enhanced the expression of Ucpl. This work was important for understanding the role of BBR on thermogenesis in BAT, body temperature regulation and temperature tolerance under cold conditions.
文摘Aim To investigate the effect of berberine on damaged morphology and glucolipid metabolization in skeletal muscle of diabetic rat and the relationship between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor （PPARs） α/γ/δ protein expression. Methods Type 2 diabetes mellitus rats were induced by an injection of 35 mg.kg^-1 streptozotocin （STZ） and a high-carbohydrate/ high-fat diet for 16 weeks. From week 17 to 32, diabetic rats were given low-, middle-, high-dose berberine （75, 150, 300 mg.kg^-1）, fenofibrate （100 mg.kg^-1） and rosiglitazone （4 mg.kg^-1） by oral administration, respectively. The skeletal muscle structure was observed with hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining, glycogen and triglyceride contents were measured by spectrophotometry and PPAR α/γ/δ protein expressions were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results Fiber distribution remained normal in skeletal muscles of all the groups, middle-, high-dose berberine partly improved diabetic fibre atrophy, increased glycogen and decreased triglyceride levels in diabetic muscle （P〈 0.01）. Middle-, high-dose berberine and rosiglitazone all significantly reduced PPARy protein level in diabetic skeletal muscle （P 〈 0.01）; middle-, high-dose berberine and fenofibrate strikingly increased both PPARu and PPAR8 expression （P〈 0.01）. Conclusion Berberine modulates PPAR α/γ/δ protein expression in diabetic skeletal muscle which may contribute to ameliorate fibre damage and glucolipid metabolization.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81173370)the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province,China(No.2012FFB02434)
文摘The intestinal absorption ofberberine （Ber） and its structural modified compound 8-hydroxy dihydroberberine （Hdber） was compared, and their effects on the intestinal absorption of sugar by per- fusion experiment were investigated in order to reveal the mechanism of low dose and high activity of Hdber in the treatment of hyperglycemia. The absorption of Hdber and Ber in rat small intestine was measured by in situ perfusion. High performance liquid chromatography （HPLC） was used to determine the concentrations of Hdber and Ber. In situ perfusion method was also used to study the effects of Hdber and Ber on sugar intestinal absorption. Glucose oxidase method and UV spectrophotometry were applied to examine the concentrations of glucose and sucrose in the perfusion fluid. The results showed that the absorption rate of Ber in the small intestine was lower than I0%, but that of Hdber was larger than 70%. Both Hdber and Ber inhibited the absorption of glucose and sucrose at the doses of 10 and 20 ~tg/mL. However, Hdber presented stronger activity than Bet （P〈0.01）. It is suggested that Hdber is ab- sorbed easily in rat small intestine and that its inhibitory effect on the absorption of sugar is better than Ber.
文摘Effects of berberine (Ber) on platelet aggregation and TXB2 and 6 keto PGF1a plasma levels were studied in rabbits with uncomplete cerebral ischemia. Ber inhibited uncomplete cerebral ischemic rabbit platelet aggregation triggered by collagen, ADP, and arachidonic acid (AA) with the IC 50 of 0.15, 0.46, and 0.51 mg·ml 1 , respectively. In rabbits, Ber 25, or 50 mg·kg 1 iv 30 min after uncomplete cerebral ischemia, restrained the collagen ADP and AA induced platelet aggregation determined 90 min later. With radioimmunoassay, we measured the thromboxane B2 (TXB 2) and 6 ketoprostaglandin F 1α (6 keto PGF 1α ) contents in rabbit plasma. The results indicated that the TXB 2 level in rabbit 120 min after uncomplete cerebral ischemia (921±539 pg·ml 1 ) was higher than that (230±71 pg·ml 1 ) in normal rabbits ( P < 0.01), but 6 keto PGF 1α level after ischemia (73±23pg·ml 1 ) was lower than that (262±988pg·ml 1 ) in normal rabbit. Ber (5, 25 or 50 mg·kg 1 ) reduced obviously the plasma TXB 2 level in rabbit with uncomplete cerebral ischemia (504±196, 386±174, or 272±183 vs 921±539 pg·ml 1 , respectively, P < 0.01). We conclude that the decrease of TXB 2 content is one of the possible mechanisms of Ber anti cerebral ischemic effect.
基金The authors would like to acknowledge the support of the Ph.D.research startup foundation of Guangdong Medical University (2XB14006).
文摘The content of berberine hydrochloride(BH)in compound berberine tablets(CBTs)is subject to strict requirements.Its content is usually measured based on chemical analysis.In this paper,the fluorescence spectral imaging method was used to study the relative content of BH from a physics perspective.By comparing the relative fluorescence intensity of self-made CBTs with di®erent mass percentages of BH,a linear positive relationship was observed between the BH content and the relative fluorescence intensity,and accordingly the quality of CBTs of different brands was evaluated.The results indicate that the fluorescence spectral imaging method can be a simple,fast and nondestructive semi-quantitative analysis method to determine the content of BH in CBTs,and this method has great potential in the quality control of CBTs.
