Berberine

Category: compound

A plant alkaloid from goldenseal and barberry with AMPK-activating, anti-inflammatory, and glucose-lowering properties comparable to metformin.

Mechanism Detail

Berberine activates AMPK via inhibition of mitochondrial Complex I (similar to metformin). It modulates gut microbiome composition, inhibits NF-κB, downregulates cyclooxygenase-2, and has demonstrated anti-proliferative effects through cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction in multiple cancer cell lines.

Clinical Status

Widely used in traditional medicine. Multiple clinical trials for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes show efficacy comparable to metformin. Cancer trials are primarily Phase I/II. Bioavailability is limited.

Relevant Diseases

• Stage IV Cancer
• Alzheimer's Disease

Relevant Therapies

• Nutraceuticals

Related Terms

• AMPK
• Metformin
• Gut microbiome
• Alkaloids