Berberine mitigates neurotoxicity of misfolded protein oligomers by interacting with the cell membrane and subsequent internalization, without altering their structure

Numerous neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, are associated with the misfolding and aggregation of proteins. In this study, we investigate the protective role of the natural alkaloid berberine against protein misfolded aggregates, given its potential as a therapeutic agent. Our findings demonstrate that berberine binds to the lipid membranes of reconstituted liposomes with diverse lipid compositions and can cross lipid membranes via diffusion. Correspondingly, in cultured human neuroblastoma cells, berberine interacts with the plasma membrane and is rapidly internalized into the cytoplasm. Furthermore, berberine exhibited rapid and dose-dependent protective effects upon exposing LUVs or cells to misfolded protein aggregates able to induce lipid membrane damage. Specifically, in human neuroblastoma cells pre-treated with berberine, the molecule reduced plasma membrane alterations and the associated Ca2+ ion influx, diminished the production of reactive oxygen species, and reduced mitochondrial metabolism dysfunction, induced by the aggregates. Concomitant administration of berberine and aggregates was not found to be protective against aggregates and, moreover, berberine does not significantly modify the structure of the protein aggregates, suggesting that its protective effect against these aberrant species in cells is due to its ability to rapidly interact with and cross the cell membrane. Together, these findings provide insight into the mechanism of protective action of berberine and support its therapeutic potential in mitigating cellular damage associated with protein aggregation.