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Updated: Jul 18, 2025

Author Spotlight: Investigating the Mechanisms and Inducing Models of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: July 5, 2024
Berberine interacts with gut microbiota and its potential therapy for polycystic ovary syndrome
Ting-Wei Zhu1,2,3, Xue-Lian Li1,2,3
1Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from Chinese medicinal plants showing a tight correlation with gut microbiota. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent reproductive and endocrine disorder syndrome among women of childbearing age. Dysbiosis, the imbalance of intestinal microorganisms, is a potential factor that takes part in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Recent evidence indicates that berberine offers promise for treating PCOS. Here, we review the recent research on the interaction between berberine and intestinal microorganisms, including the changes in the structure of gut bacteria, the intestinal metabolites after BBR treatment, and the effect of gut microbiota on the bioavailability of BBR. We also discuss the therapeutic effect of BBR on PCOS in terms of gut microbiota and its potential mechanisms.
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