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Articles

Neuroprotective effect of berberine based on the Alzheimer’s disease model

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/jasbb.2025.5583
Submitted: August 6, 2025
Published: 19.12.2025

Abstract

Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, is a substance used in traditional East Asian folk medicine. It is naturally found in many plant species, especially those of the Berberis genus. It has multifaceted anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. The ageing population is currently affected by the growing prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s disease. Berberine provides multidirectional protective and therapeutic effects against pathological neuronal changes. Its application reduces the synthesis of amyloid-β and tau protein plaques. In addition, it exhibits an effect typically associated with drugs currently used to treat this disease – cholinesterase inhibition. It has been shown that the use of berberine reduces inflammation in nervous tissue, inhibits apoptosis mechanisms and promotes neuronal repair processes. However, further preclinical studies are required to assess its efficacy and toxicity.

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