Introduction
Coptis Chinensis (C. Chinensis), also known as Chinese Goldthread, is a perennial herb native to China and other Asian countries. Coptis Chinensis Extract has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years in China, Japan, and Korea, mainly for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral properties. Coptis Chinensis extract (CCE) is a water or ethanolic extract, which contains a high content of alkaloids, such as berberine, coptisine, palmatine, and jatrorrhizine. CCE has been shown to have a wide range of therapeutic applications, including hypoglycemic, lipid-lowering, neuroprotective, and anti-cancer effects.
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of CCE is complex and varies depending on the extraction method and the part of the plant used. CCE contains a high content of alkaloids, which account for its pharmacological activities. Berberine is the major alkaloid found in CCE, which accounts for more than 90% of the total content. Other alkaloids such as coptisine, palmatine, and jatrorrhizine are also present in CCE, but in smaller amounts. CCE also contains flavonoids, phenols, lignans, and terpenoids, which contribute to its pharmacological activities.
Pharmacological Activities
Anti-inflammatory activity
CCE has been demonstrated to possess significant anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo. Inflammation is a complex physiological process that is involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, and cancer. CCE exhibits its anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17, and by suppressing the expression of inflammatory mediators, such as iNOS and COX-2. CCE also inhibits the activation of NF-κB, a key transcription factor involved in the regulation of the inflammatory response. Anti-bacterial activity
CCE has been shown to exhibit significant antibacterial activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Berberine, the major alkaloid found in CCE, is responsible for its anti-bacterial activity. Berberine inhibits the growth of bacteria by interfering with their DNA replication, metabolism, and cell membrane integrity. CCE has been demonstrated to be effective against drug-resistant bacteria, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).
Anti-viral activity
CCE has been reported to exhibit anti-viral activity against a variety of viruses, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and influenza virus. Berberine has been shown to inhibit the replication of these viruses by interfering with the early and late stages of the viral life cycle. CCE has synergistic effects with other anti-viral drugs and may improve the therapeutic outcomes of these drugs.
Hypoglycemic activity
CCE has been shown to exhibit significant hypoglycemic activity in animals and humans. Berberine, the major alkaloid found in CCE, has been shown to regulate glucose metabolism by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of energy metabolism. Berberine also improves insulin sensitivity and reduces insulin resistance, which are associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus. CCE has been shown to improve glycemic control, reduce fasting blood glucose levels, and increase insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Lipid-lowering activity
CCE has been shown to exhibit significant lipid-lowering activity by reducing serum lipid levels, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Berberine, the major alkaloid found in CCE, has been shown to inhibit the activity of HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. Berberine also activates AMPK, which promotes lipid metabolism and reduces lipid accumulation in the liver. CCE may be an effective natural remedy for the prevention and treatment of dyslipidemia.
Neuroprotective activity
CCE has been demonstrated to possess significant neuroprotective activity in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Berberine, the major alkaloid found in CCE, has been shown to protect neuronal cells from oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Berberine also regulates neurotransmitter systems, such as acetylcholine, dopamine, and glutamate, which are involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. CCE may be a promising therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Toxicity and Safety
CCE is generally considered safe when consumed in recommended doses. However, high doses of CCE may cause adverse effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. CCE may also interact with certain medications, such as anti-hypertensive drugs, anti-diabetic drugs, and anti-coagulants. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals consult a healthcare professional before taking CCE.
Conclusion
Coptis Chinensis extract (CCE) is a water or ethanolic extract that contains a high content of alkaloids, such as berberine, coptisine, palmatine, and jatrorrhizine. CCE has been shown to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, hypoglycemic, lipid-lowering and neuroprotective effects. These properties make CCE a potential natural remedy for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. However, high doses of CCE may cause adverse effects, and its interactions with certain medications should be taken into consideration. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal dosage, safety, and efficacy of CCE in humans.
please contact us at email: selina@ciybio.com.cn
