Radiolysis of berberine or palmatine in aqueous solution

The reactions of hydrated electron (eaq−), hydrogen atom (H) (reducing species) and Cl2•−,Br2•−,N•3,O•H radicals (oxidizing species) with berberine or palmatine in aqueous solution have been studied by steady-state and pulse radiolysis. The spectra of transient intermediates, leading to the final products, are presented. The rate constants of the reaction of eaq− and OH radical with both alkaloids in the homogenous solution and in the presence of DNA are reported. It is demonstrated that the primary products of the reaction of berberine and palmatine with eaq− and radicals generated during radiolysis are unstable and undergo further reactions.