Berberine as a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of acute pancreatitis

Abstract

Berberine (BRB) is a compound belonging to the group of isoquinoline alkaloids of plant origin that has long been used in traditional chinese medicine (TMC). Due to, among others anti-inflammatory properties BRB is a potential therapeutic in the treatment of acute pancreatitis (OZT). In a study in the mouse model of L-arginine-induced acute pancreatitis, we showed that BRB administered by the intravenous route at 0.1 and 0.5 mg / kg body weight significantly reduces the level of myeloperoxidase activity (an indicator of inflammation) in the pancreas and lungs. Promising results point to the need for larger, randomized studies to assess the long-term efficacy and side effects of BRB therapy.