Efficacy and underlying mechanisms of berberine against lipid metabolic diseases: a review

Abstract

Lipid-lowering therapy is an important tool for the treatment of lipid metabolic diseases, which are increasing in prevalence. However, the failure of conventional lipid-lowering drugs to achieve the desired efficacy in some patients, and the side-effects of these drug regimens, highlight the urgent need for novel lipid-lowering drugs. The liver and intestine are important in the production and removal of endogenous and exogenous lipids, respectively, and have an important impact on circulating lipid levels. Elevated circulating lipids predisposes an individual to lipid deposition in the vascular wall, affecting vascular function. Berberine (BBR) modulates liver lipid production and clearance by regulating cellular targets such as cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP), scavenger receptor class B type 1 (SR-BI), low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), and ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1). It influences intestinal lipid synthesis and metabolism by modulating gut microbiota composition and metabolism. Finally, BBR maintains vascular function by targeting proteins such as endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1). This paper elucidates and summarizes the pharmacological mechanisms of berberine in lipid metabolic diseases from a multi-organ (liver, intestine, and vascular system) and multi-target perspective.

Biochemical Investigation of Therapeutic Efficacy of Berberine-Enriched Extract in Streptozotocin-Induced Metabolic Impairment

“…Recent studies have delved into the diverse pharmacological properties of berberine, shedding light on its potential therapeutic applications. , However, a critical examination of the literature reveals notable gaps in comprehensively exploring the therapeutic effects of the berberine-enriched extract (BEE) against metabolic impairment, particularly in experimental animal models. Recent studies have emphasized the need for more detailed investigations into the biochemical profiling of BEE and its distinct impact on metabolic disorders. Our study seeks to address this gap by undertaking a thorough examination of the biochemical effects of BEE in the context of metabolic impairment utilizing a well-established experimental model. By delving into the specific biochemical mechanisms and outcomes associated with BEE administration, we aim to provide a more comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential, thereby contributing to the current knowledge base and offering insights that can guide future research and potential clinical applications.…”

“…Recent studies have emphasized the need for more detailed investigations into the biochemical profiling of BEE and its distinct impact on metabolic disorders. 8b 13 Our study seeks to address this gap by undertaking a thorough examination of the biochemical effects of BEE in the context of metabolic impairment utilizing a well-established experimental model. By delving into the specific biochemical mechanisms and outcomes associated with BEE administration, we aim to provide a more comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential, thereby contributing to the current knowledge base and offering insights that can guide future research and potential clinical applications.…”