| abstract |
Berberine (5,6-dihydro-9,10-dimethoxybenzo[g]-1,3-benzodioxolo[5,6-a]quinolizinium) an alkaloid which is found in nature, inhibits the activity of prolyl oligopeptidase (POP) in a dosis-dependent manner. Berberine is capable of reaching the Central Nervous System where POP is mainly found. Patients with bipolar affective disorder show increased levels of POP activity in serum. Therefore, berberine, in any of its pharmaceutically acceptable acid salts, is useful for treating bipolar affective disorder in mammals, including humans. |