Berberine, a natural compound found in various herbs such as barberry, goldenseal, and European barberry (Berberis vulgaris), is showing promising results in slowing down the proliferation of lung cancer cells. This discovery comes from a recent study published in Antioxidants, where researchers found that berberine inhibits cancer cell growth in laboratory settings (in vitro). The compound also reduces airway inflammation and minimizes damage to healthy lung cells exposed to harmful chemicals, such as those from cigarette smoke.

“Berberine has already been proven beneficial in the treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. We wanted to explore its potential in suppressing lung cancer and reducing inflammation,” explained Dr. Kamal Dua, lead researcher and Senior Lecturer of Pharmacy at the University of Technology Sydney

To uncover the anticancer mechanisms involved in berberine’s action, the research team measured mRNA levels of genes related to tumor formation and the expression levels of proteins. They found that berberine upregulates tumor-suppressor genes while reducing proteins responsible for the migration and proliferation of cancer cells. Additionally, berberine inhibits oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular aging caused by cigarette smoke extract in healthy lung cells cultured in the laboratory.

To facilitate its use in the experiments, Dr. Dua developed a system using liquid crystalline nanoparticles—a sophisticated drug delivery system. This method encapsulates berberine into small, dissolvable, biodegradable polymer spheres, enhancing its safety and effectiveness.

Decades of research have shown that cigarette smoke is toxic to lung cells, causing airway inflammation and accelerating diseases such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma. It is worth noting that lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with approximately 1.8 million deaths reported annually.