Inhibition of H1N1 influenza A virus growth and induction of inflammatory mediators by the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine and extracts of goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

► The isoquinoline alkaloid berberine inhibits the growth two H1N1 strains of influenza A in several mammalian cell types. ► Berberine likely inhibits virus growth post-translationally, possibly through the inhibition of virus protein translocation. ► Berberine inhibits TNF-α and PGE2 production and this effect may be distinct from the effect on virus growth. ► Berberine-containing, ethanol extracts of goldenseal displayed activity as would be predicted from their berberine content.