Effects of Berberine and Rhizoma Coptidis on Gut Microbes and Obesity in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Xie Weidong, Gu Dayong, Li Jianna, Cui Kai, Zhang Yaou
Primary Institution: Life Science Division, Graduate School at Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, China
Hypothesis
Rhizoma coptidis exerts anti-obesity effects that are likely mediated by mechanisms of regulating gut microbes and berberine may be a key compound of Rhizoma coptidis.
Conclusion
Both Rhizoma coptidis and berberine significantly reduce body weight and improve metabolic parameters in high-fat diet-fed mice.
Supporting Evidence
- RC and berberine significantly lower both body and visceral adipose weights.
- Both RC and berberine reduce blood glucose and lipid levels.
- RC and berberine significantly inhibit the growth of gut bacteria.
Takeaway
This study found that a traditional Chinese medicine and its active ingredient can help mice lose weight and improve their health by changing the bacteria in their guts.
Methodology
The study involved treating high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6J mice with Rhizoma coptidis and berberine, followed by analysis of body weight, metabolic parameters, and gut microbiota.
Limitations
The study may require more samples to confirm the findings.
Participant Demographics
Four-week old male C57BL/6J mice
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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