From the Guidelines
Berberine does have an effect on endothelial progenitor cells, although the provided evidence does not directly support this claim, and the current information is based on the understanding of related mechanisms and external knowledge. The provided study 1 discusses the effects of triglycerides and remnant lipoprotein particles on endothelial cells and progenitor cells, highlighting the potential for proatherogenic responses and interference with endothelial progenitor cell function. However, it does not directly address berberine's impact on these cells. Based on external knowledge and the understanding of berberine's mechanisms, it is known that berberine can promote endothelial progenitor cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation by activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and increasing nitric oxide production. Some key points to consider about berberine's effects on endothelial progenitor cells include:
- Promotion of EPC proliferation, migration, and differentiation at lower doses
- Activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
- Increase in nitric oxide production
- Protection of EPCs from oxidative stress damage
- Reduction of inflammation to maintain EPC viability and function It is essential to note that the optimal dosing of berberine for its effects on endothelial progenitor cells in humans requires further research, as most clinical applications use berberine supplements at doses of 500-1500 mg daily.
From the Research
Effect of Berberine on Endothelial Progenitor Cells
- Berberine has been shown to have a positive effect on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in several studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies suggest that berberine can increase the number and function of EPCs, which can contribute to improved endothelial function and reduced arterial stiffness 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Berberine has been found to promote the mobilization of circulating EPCs, which can help to repair damaged endothelium and improve vascular function 2, 3, 4.
- The mechanisms underlying the effect of berberine on EPCs are not fully understood, but may involve the upregulation of CXCR4 expression, increased nitric oxide production, and activation of the PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling pathway 3, 5, 6.
Key Findings
- A study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension found that berberine increased the number of circulating CD34/KDR double-positive EPCs and improved small artery elasticity in healthy volunteers 2.
- A study published in the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine found that berberine promoted CXCR4 expression and accelerated endothelial repair capacity of early EPCs in persons with prehypertension 3.
- A study published in Clinical and Experimental Hypertension found that berberine reduced endothelial injury and arterial stiffness in spontaneously hypertensive rats, and increased the number and function of EPCs 4.
- A study published in Cardiology found that berberine-induced upregulation of circulating EPCs was related to nitric oxide production in healthy subjects 5.
- A study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology found that berberine protected EPCs from damage caused by TNF-α via the PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling pathway 6.