Neuroprotective Properties of Berberine: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Implications

Abstract

Berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid natural product, is isolated primarily from Coptis chinensis and other Berberis plants. BBR possesses various bioactivities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anticancer, immune-regulation, and antimicrobial activities. Growing scientific evidence underscores BBR’s substantial neuroprotective potential, prompting increased interest and scrutiny. In this comprehensive review, we elucidate the neuroprotective attributes of BBR, delineate the underlying molecular mechanisms, and assess its clinical safety and efficacy. The multifaceted molecular mechanisms responsible for BBR’s neuroprotection encompass the attenuation of oxidative stress, mitigation of inflammatory responses, inhibition of apoptotic pathways, facilitation of autophagic processes, and modulation of CYP450 enzyme activities, neurotransmitter levels, and gut microbiota composition. Furthermore, BBR engages numerous signaling pathways, including the PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, AMPK, CREB, Nrf2, and MAPK pathways, to confer its neuroprotective effects. This comprehensive review aims to provide a substantial knowledge base, stimulate broader scientific discourse, and facilitate advancements in the application of BBR for neuroprotection.

Thymol as a Potential Neuroprotective Agent: Mechanisms, Efficacy, and Future Prospects

“…57 Neurons exhibit high energy demands due to their long axons and extensive synaptic connections, relying heavily on oxidative phosphorylation for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. 10 Mitochondrial dysfunction leads to energy depletion, excessive ROS generation, and the release of pro-apoptotic factors from mitochondria. 58 These events ultimately result in neuronal apoptosis and degeneration.…”

“…Mitochondria, the primary energy producers within eukaryotic cells, are critical for neuronal survival and function . Neurons exhibit high energy demands due to their long axons and extensive synaptic connections, relying heavily on oxidative phosphorylation for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production . Mitochondrial dysfunction leads to energy depletion, excessive ROS generation, and the release of pro-apoptotic factors from mitochondria .…”

“…6,8,9 The medicinal value of natural products has attracted increasing attention due to their relative safety compared to chemical drugs. 10 The discovery and development of effective drugs or agents from plant or Chinese herbal extracts have become one of the important strategies against neurodegenerative diseases.…”

“…Recent studies have also highlighted the connection between neurodegenerative diseases and gut dysbiosis, emphasizing the potential of probiotic supplementation or intestinal flora regulation as a disease management strategy . The accumulating evidence has shown many small molecules obtained from plant or Chinese herbal extracts exhibited potent neuroprotective effects by facilitating neuronal survival and neurite growth, and the functional recovery of brain injuries based on their functional roles, including antioxidant, inhibition of neurotransmitter production, chelation of harmful metal ions, antiapoptosis, and anti-inflammatory activities. ,, The medicinal value of natural products has attracted increasing attention due to their relative safety compared to chemical drugs . The discovery and development of effective drugs or agents from plant or Chinese herbal extracts have become one of the important strategies against neurodegenerative diseases.…”

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

“…The existing body of knowledge on plant-based alkaloids, particularly berberine, has witnessed significant expansion in recent years. 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.…”