Berberrubine is primarily studied for its biological activity, particularly in the field of pharmacology and natural product research. It exhibits significant antimicrobial properties, showing effectiveness against various bacteria and fungi, making it a candidate for developing new antimicrobial agents. It also demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which are valuable in managing oxidative stress-related conditions and chronic inflammation. Research suggests berberrubine may have potential in cancer therapy due to its ability to inhibit the growth of certain tumor cells through mechanisms like inducing apoptosis and interfering with cell cycle progression. It has also been investigated for its role in metabolic health, including glucose regulation and lipid metabolism, indicating possible applications in managing diabetes and related metabolic disorders. Additionally, berberrubine is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other bioactive compounds, especially in the development of derivatives with enhanced therapeutic properties. Its natural origin and low toxicity profile support its exploration in herbal medicine and as a lead compound in drug discovery.