Berberine Reduces Atherosclerosis in Mice by Activating AMPK
Author Information
Author(s): Wang Qilong, Zhang Miao, Liang Bin, Shirwany Najeeb, Zhu Yi, Zou Ming-Hui
Primary Institution: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Hypothesis
Is AMPK required for the protective effects of berberine in cardiovascular diseases?
Conclusion
Berberine reduces oxidative stress and vascular inflammation, and suppresses atherogenesis through AMPK-dependent UCP2 expression.
Supporting Evidence
- Berberine significantly reduced aortic lesions in ApoE-/- mice.
- Chronic administration of berberine increased UCP2 levels in aorta.
- AMPK alpha 2 is critical for the anti-atherosclerotic effects of berberine.
Takeaway
Berberine, a natural compound, helps reduce heart disease in mice by activating a protein that protects blood vessels.
Methodology
ApoE-/- and ApoE-/-/AMPK alpha 2-/- mice were treated with berberine for 8 weeks, and atherosclerotic lesions and oxidative stress markers were evaluated.
Limitations
The study was conducted in mice, and results may not directly translate to humans.
Participant Demographics
ApoE-/- and ApoE-/-/AMPK alpha 2-/- mice
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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