A new review suggests that berberine, a plant-derived bioactive compound, could emerge as a promising adjuvant therapy for lung cancer. Researchers found that the natural alkaloid exhibits multiple anti-cancer properties and may enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments while helping overcome drug resistance.
Targets Multiple Cancer Pathways
The review highlights that berberine suppresses the growth and spread of lung cancer cells by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death), inhibiting tumour proliferation and blocking metastasis. It also regulates several signalling pathways involved in cancer progression, including PI3K/Akt, MAPK and NF-κB. Additionally, the compound may improve the response to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapies when used alongside standard treatment.
Review Highlights Growing Evidence
As reported by Medical Dialogues, the review brings together findings from several preclinical studies that demonstrate berberine’s potential as an adjunct to conventional lung cancer therapies. Researchers also noted that combining berberine with anticancer drugs may reduce tumour growth and improve treatment outcomes, although most evidence currently comes from laboratory and animal studies.
Clinical Studies Still Needed
Despite its encouraging results, researchers caution that berberine is not yet a standard treatment for lung cancer. Its poor bioavailability remains a challenge, although advances in nanotechnology and novel drug-delivery systems may improve its clinical use. The review concludes that large-scale clinical trials are essential to confirm its safety, optimal dosage and effectiveness in patients before it can be adopted in routine cancer care.