Berberine improves lipid levels, vascular function, and gut microbial-dependent metabolites in stable coronary artery disease patients
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: BackgroundBerberine (BBR) has been reported to exert cardiovascular protective effects by regulating lipids and ameliorating inflammation. Recent studies reported the interaction between BBR with gut microbiota among a variety of metabolic diseases since its low bioavailability. However, few studies have examined the effect of BBR on the gut microbiota in coronary artery disease (CAD) individuals.Methods We hence conducted a parallel-controlled, regularly visited clinical trial with 11 stable CAD patients who recently underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and completed 12-weeks BBR treatment. We found vascular endothelial function evaluated by flow-mediated vasodilation, lipids (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides) level and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-17, MCP-1, MIP-1β and VEGF) were significantly improved by BBR intervention. Using metagenomics and metabolomic studies, we identified that bacterial signatures varied significantly with gradually increased dose of BBR intervention.ResultsThese results showed a select group of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) producing bacteria mainly including Roseburia spp. and Ruminococcus gnavus elevated by BBR intervention which was also negatively correlated to inflammatory factors. Especially, microorganisms-derived butyrate was remarkably enriched by BBR.ConclusionOverall, we investigated the role of BBR in influencing microbial metabolic alterations and vascular function. Targeted restoration of SCFA producing microbiota may present a novel pattern for preventing cardiovascular disease. (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04434365, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04434365)
Source: Frontiers in Nutrition
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacology (medical)
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7222997125