Positive Health Online

Abstract

DIOGO and COLLEAGUES, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal.

Background

Metabolic regulation is largely dependent on mitochondria, which play an important role in energy homeostasis. Imbalance between energy intake and expenditure leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, characterized by a reduced ratio of energy production (ATP production) to respiration.

Methodology

Due to the role of mitochondrial factors/events in several apoptotic pathways, the possibility of targeting that organelle in the tumour cell, leading to its elimination is very attractive, although the safety issue is problematic. Berberine, a benzyl-tetra isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from plants of the Berberidaceae family, has been extensively used for many centuries, especially in the traditional Chinese and Native American medicine. Several evidences suggest that berberine possesses several therapeutic uses, including anti-tumoural activity.

Results

The present review supplies evidence that berberine is a safe anti-cancer agent, exerting several effects on mitochondria, including inhibition of mitochondrial Complex I and interaction with the adenine nucleotide translocator which can explain several of the described effects on tumour cells.

Conclusion

References

Diogo CV, Machado NG, Barbosa IA, Serafim TL, Burgeiro A and Oliveira PJ. Berberine as a promising safe anti-cancer agent - is there a role for mitochondria?. [Review] Current Drug Targets. 12(6):850-9. Jun 2011.

Comment

The above research demonstrates that berberine possesses several anti-tumour properties including inhibition of mitochondrial Complex I.