AUTHOR=Zhang Wenhui , Guo Siyi , Dou Jinjin , Zhang Xiwu , Shi Fan , Zhang Chun , Zhang Huxiao , Lan Xiaodong , Su Yi 

TITLE=Berberine and its derivatives: mechanisms of action in myocardial vascular endothelial injury - a review

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Pharmacology

VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1543697

DOI=10.3389/fphar.2025.1543697

ISSN=1663-9812

ABSTRACT=Myocardial vascular endothelial injury serves as a crucial inducer of cardiovascular diseases. Mechanisms such as endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, autophagy, platelet dysfunction, and gut microbiota imbalance are intimately linked to this condition. Berberine and its derivatives have demonstrated potential in modulating these mechanisms. This article reviews the pathogenesis of endothelial injury in myocardial vessels, the pharmacological effects of berberine and its derivatives, particularly their interactions with targets implicated in vascular endothelial injury. Furthermore, it discusses clinical applications, methods to enhance bioavailability, and toxicity concerns, aiming to lay a foundation for the development of BBR as a therapeutic agent for cardiovascular diseases.