Berberine as a Potential Anticancer Agent: A Comprehensive Review.

Area of Science:

• Natural Products Chemistry
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Berberine (BBR) is a bioactive compound with demonstrated health benefits.
• Extensive research has explored the anticancer potential of BBR across various cancer types.
• BBR has shown therapeutic efficacy in preclinical studies for multiple cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and consolidate current knowledge on Berberine's anticancer properties.
• To highlight BBR's mechanisms of action in cancer prevention and treatment.
• To provide a comprehensive overview for researchers and drug developers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on Berberine and cancer.
• Analysis of BBR's effects on cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, and autophagy.
• Investigation of BBR's impact on tumor cell invasion, metastasis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition.

Main Results:

• Berberine inhibits cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and regulating the cell cycle and autophagy.
• BBR hinders tumor cell invasion and metastasis by down-regulating relevant proteins.
• Berberine also reduces epithelial-mesenchymal transition, beneficial in early cancer development.

Conclusions:

• Berberine exhibits promising anticancer activity across a wide range of cancers.
• Understanding BBR's pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and mechanisms is crucial for drug development.
• Despite its potential, pure berberine preparations are not yet approved for specific cancer treatments.