BBR induces apoptosis in HepG2 cell through an Akt-ASK1-ROS-p38MAPKs-linked cascade.

Berberine (BBR) has indicated significant antimicrobial activity against a variety of organisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The mechanism by which BBR initiates apoptosis remains poorly understood. In the present study, we demonstrated that BBR exhibited significant cytotoxicity in human hepatoma HepG2 cells.

The combination of berberine and irradiation enhances anti-cancer effects via activation of p38 MAPK pathway and ROS generation in human hepatoma cells.

Berberine, an isoquinoline plant alkaloid, has been known to generate a wide variety of biochemical and pharmacological effects. In order to elucidate the molecular mechanism for the berberine-induced enhancement of radio-sensitization, the human hepatoma HepG2 cells were treated with berberine combined with irradiation. The anti-tumor effect of gamma radiation was found to be significantly enhanced by berberine.