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Abstract Title:

Berberine Improves Intestinal Motility and Visceral Pain in the Mouse Models Mimicking Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D) Symptoms in an Opioid-Receptor Dependent Manner.

Abstract Source:

PLoS One. 2015 ;10(12):e0145556. Epub 2015 Dec 23. PMID: 26700862

Abstract Author(s):

Chunqiu Chen, Meiling Lu, Qiuhui Pan, Jakub Fichna, Lijun Zheng, Kesheng Wang, Zhen Yu, Yongyu Li, Kun Li, Aihong Song, Zhongchen Liu, Zhenshun Song, Martin Kreis

Article Affiliation:

Chunqiu Chen

Abstract:

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Berberine and its derivatives display potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity. Here we aimed at characterizing the mechanism of action of berberine in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and cortical neurons using animal models and in vitro tests.

METHODS: The effect of berberine was characterized in murine models mimicking diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) symptoms. Then the opioidantagonists were used to identify the receptors involved. Furthermore, the effect of berberineon opioid receptors expression was established in the mouse intestine and rat fetal cortical neurons.

RESULTS: In mouse models, berberine prolonged GI transit and time to diarrhea in a dose-dependent manner, and significantly reduced visceral pain. In physiological conditions the effects of berberine were mediated by mu- (MOR) and delta- (DOR) opioidreceptors; hypermotility, excessive secretion and nociception were reversed by berberine through MOR and DOR-dependent action. We also found that berberine increased the expression of MOR and DOR in the mouse bowel and rat fetal cortical neurons.

CONCLUSION: Berberine significantly improved IBS-D symptoms in animal models, possibly through mu- and delta- opioid receptors. Berberine may become a new drug candidate for the successful treatment of IBS-D in clinical conditions.

Study Type : Animal Study

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