Effect of berberine on enterotoxin-induced intestinal fluid accumulation in rats.

We have determined the effects of berberine (Berberis aristita) on intestinal fluid accumulation due to enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) heat-stable (ST) toxin in suckling (24-days old) Wistar rats. Intestinal fluid accumulation occurred in suckling Wistar rats by administration of culture filtrate containing ST-producing ETEC in serial dilutions up to 1/8 dilution by oral or intragastric route.