Antimigratory, Anti‐Invasive and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of Bergenin in Rheumatoid Arthritis by Downregulating the Wnt/β‐Catenin Pathway

ABSTRACT Background This study investigates antimigratory, anti‐invasive, and anti‐inflammatory mechanisms of Bergenin in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by focusing on the pathways involved. Methods In vitro, TNF‐α‐induced MH7A cells were used to assess Bergenin's effects on cell proliferation (CCK‐8), migration (wound healing, Transwell assays), and apoptosis (flow cytometry). mRNA levels of IL‐6 and MMPs were quantified by qRT‐PCR, and protein expression was analyzed using ELISA and western blot. The Wnt/β‐catenin pathway was examined through immunofluorescence and western blotting with or without LiCl. An adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AIA) rat model was used to monitor clinical symptoms and analyze synovial tissue. Results Bergenin inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of TNF‐α‐induced MH7A cells, while promoting apoptosis. It reduced IL‐6 and MMPs expression, with these effects reversed by LiCl. In vivo, Bergenin alleviated paw swelling, arthritis score, and synovial pathology in AIA rats, reducing pro‐inflammatory factors. Conclusions Bergenin exerts antimigratory, anti‐invasive, and anti‐inflammatory effects in rheumatoid arthritis by modulating the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic option for rheumatoid arthritis.