Berberine Improved Aldo-Induced Podocyte Injury via Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathways both In Vivo and In Vitro.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Berberine, a naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloid, acts against oxidative stress (OS) and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), both of which are responsible for Aldosterone (Aldo) -induced podocyte injury. However, the direct effects of berberine on Aldo-induced OS, ERS, and podocyte injury are not well defined.

METHODS: Uninephrectomized Sprague-Dawley rats were given 1% NaCl (salt) in their water and an Aldo infusion (0.75 µg/h) for 28 days to induce podocyte injury in the Aldo group. In the Aldo/berberine group, in addition to Aldo infusion, rats were administered 150 mg/kg berberine per day by gastric gavage for 4 weeks. Podocytes were incubated in media containing either buffer or Aldo in the presence or absence of berberine for variable time periods. The kidney tissues and podocytes were then investigated using morphological analysis, immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, western blot, DHE staining, DCFDA fluorescence, and Annexin V staining.

RESULTS: Here, we have reported that berberine attenuated Aldo-induced OS, ERS, and podocyte injury both in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, berberine treatment improved the extensive fusion of foot processes in electron micrographs resulting from Aldo/salt infusion in rats.

CONCLUSION: Berberine may be examined as an effective agent against Aldo-induced podocyte injury.