To explore the material basis and mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effects of Hibiscus mutabilis L..The active ingredients and potential targets of Hibiscus mutabilis L.were obtained through the literature review a...To explore the material basis and mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effects of Hibiscus mutabilis L..The active ingredients and potential targets of Hibiscus mutabilis L.were obtained through the literature review and SwissADME platform.Genes related to the inflammation were collected using Genecards and OMIM databases,and the intersection genes were submitted on STRING and DAVID websites.Then,the protein interaction network(PPI),gene ontology(GO)and pathway(KEGG)were analyzed.Cytoscape 3.7.2 software was used to construct the“Hibiscus mutabilis L.-active ingredient-target-inflammation”network diagram,and AutoDockTools-1.5.6 software was used for the molecular docking verification.The antiinflammatory effect of Hibiscus mutabilis L.active ingredient was verified by the RAW264.7 inflammatory cell model.The results showed that 11 active components and 94 potential targets,1029 inflammatory targets and 24 intersection targets were obtained from Hibiscus mutabilis L..The key anti-inflammatory active ingredients of Hibiscus mutabilis L.are quercetin,apigenin and luteolin.Its action pathway is mainly related to NF-κB,cancer pathway and TNF signaling pathway.Cell experiments showed that total flavonoids of Hibiscus mutabilis L.could effectively inhibit the expression of tumor necrosis factor(TNF-α),interleukin 8(IL-8)and epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR)in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 inflammatory cells.It also downregulates the phosphorylation of human nuclear factor ĸB inhibitory protein α(IĸBα)and NF-κB p65 subunit protein(p65).Overall,the anti-inflammatory effect of Hibiscus mutabilis L.is related to many active components,many signal pathways and targets,which provides a theoretical basis for its further development and application.展开更多
Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)was identified as the most prevalent form of diabetes.This study employed an integrated strategy combining network pharmacology,metabolomics,and experimental validation to elucidate the t...Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)was identified as the most prevalent form of diabetes.This study employed an integrated strategy combining network pharmacology,metabolomics,and experimental validation to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms of red mulberry water extract(RMW)in T2DM.Systematic analysis identified six bioactive constituents,with four key components(cyanidin,quercetin,morin,andβ-carotene)demonstrating significant interactions with diabetes-related targets.Network pharmacology revealed these compounds modulate critical pathways including AMPK(P=2.3×10^(−5)),PI3K-Akt(P=1.8×10^(−4)),and PPAR signaling(P=3.1×10^(−3)).In diabetic mice,treatment significantly improved glycemic control(32.5%reduction in fasting glucose,P<0.01),lipid profiles(36.7%lower TG,P<0.05),antioxidant activity(2.1-fold increased SOD,P<0.05),and inflammation(42%reduced TNF-α,P<0.05).Metabolomic analysis further confirmed alterations in catecholamine and lipid metabolism pathways.These findings collectively demonstrate mulberry's multi-target therapeutic potential through synergistic regulation of glucose metabolism,lipid homeostasis,oxidative stress,and inflammatory responses in diabetes.展开更多
Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-relate...Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,osteoporosis,low immunity,glucose and lipid metabolism disorders,and cardiovascular diseases.With the continuous increase of the elderly population,the pressure on the medical industry is increasing.To lower the burden on the medical industry and increase the average age of the elderly,it is vital to explore effective anti-aging materials.Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma(Renshen),as a traditional and precious Chinese medicinal herb,is known as the“king of all herbs”.It is famous for its effects of“tonifying Qi,restoring pulse”(helping with the generation of Qi(the fundamental,vital energy that continuously flows within the body)and the circulation of blood)and strengthening the body,nourishing the spleen and lungs,generating fluids and nourishing blood,calming the mind and improving intelligence.Recently,its anti-aging effect has received increasing attention from modern scientific research.This study summarizes the pharmacological effects of the main active ingredients of Renshen(ginsenosides,polysaccharides,etc.)on resisting aging,including preventing neuroaging,suppressing skin aging,mitigating ovarian aging,inhibiting osteoporosis and arthritis,enhancing the immune system of the elderly,protecting the cardiovascular system,resisting aging-induced fatigue and exerting the anti-tumor effects.Through network pharmacology and molecular docking,the anti-aging active ingredients of Renshen were screened,and the key targets and pathways of anti-aging active ingredients in Renshen were determined.Using network pharmacology,totally 106 drug targets and 3,479 disease targets were screened,and 79 common targets between aging and Renshen were identified.Three core targets were identified in the PPI network,including TNF,AKT1,and IL-1β.Molecular docking was used to obtain further verification.This study emphasizes the potential of Renshen as a source of anti-aging activity,which can be developed into a novel drug for the treatment of age-related diseases.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the key targets and mechanisms of the Wenyang Huayin decoction(WYHYD,温阳化饮方)in treating bronchial asthma with cold fluid retention syndrome using network pharmacology and animal experiment...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the key targets and mechanisms of the Wenyang Huayin decoction(WYHYD,温阳化饮方)in treating bronchial asthma with cold fluid retention syndrome using network pharmacology and animal experiments.METHODS:On the one hand,we used network pharmacology method to explored the chemical components of the WYHYD and the main targets of bronchial asthma were acquired.Besides,a protein interaction network was built after protein interaction analysis to find potential protein functional modules.Then,we constructed the"WYHYD component-bronchial asthma target-pathway"network.On the other hand,the experimental intervention was as follows:first,we formed a rat model of bronchial asthma.Thereafter,we used the WYHYD to treat the disease while observing autophagyrelated indicators as the core target of network pharmacology.RESULTS:The network pharmacology revealed that there are 122 potential therapeutic targets in treating bronchial asthma with WYHYD.The biological processes mainly involved in the WYHYD included Gene Ontology:0110032:positive regulation of G2/MI transition of the medical cell cycle etc.and four major signaling pathways were involved.During laboratory investigations,various signs and clinical manifestations of the rat model group were the same.After administering the WYHYD,lung function,pathological sections,inflammatory factors,and other microscopic indicators improved to varying degrees,providing evidence for the study results.Meanwhile,we verified that the core targets of WYHYD in treating asthma through the intervention of autophagy are tumor necrosis factor,caspase 8,interleukin 1 beta,sirtuin 1,phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3,C-C chemokine receptor type 7,L/YN kinase,and protein tyrosine kinase 2.CONCLUSION:This preliminary study revealed the treatment process of bronchial asthma with multicomponent,multi-target,and multi-pathway mechanisms of the WYHYD.展开更多
Background:Wenqing Yin(WQY)is a classic prescription used to treat skin diseases like atopic dermatitis(AD)in China,and the aim of this study is to investigate the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of WQY o...Background:Wenqing Yin(WQY)is a classic prescription used to treat skin diseases like atopic dermatitis(AD)in China,and the aim of this study is to investigate the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of WQY on AD.Methods:The DNFB-induced mouse models of AD were established to investigate the therapeutic effects of WQY on AD.The symptoms of AD in the ears and backs of the mice were assessed,while inflammatory factors in the ear were quantified using quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR),and the percentages of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)cells in the spleen were analyzed through flow cytometry.The compounds in WQY were identified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(UPLC-MS/MS)analysis and the key targets and pathways of WQY to treat AD were predicted by network pharmacology.Subsequently,the key genes were tested and verified by qRT-PCR,and the potential active components and target proteins were verified by molecular docking.Results:WQY relieved the AD symptoms and histopathological injuries in the ear and back skin of mice with AD.Meanwhile,WQY significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory factors IL-6 and IL-1βin ear tissue,as well as the ratio of CD4^(+)/CD8^(+)cells in spleen.Additionally,a total of 142 compounds were identified from the water extract of WQY by UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS.39 key targets related to AD were screened out by network pharmacology methods.The KEGG analysis indicated that the effects of WQY were primarily mediated through pathways associated with Toll-like receptor signaling and T cell receptor signaling.Moreover,the results of qRT-PCR demonstrated that WQY significantly reduced the mRNA expressions of IL-4,IL-10,GATA3 and FOXP3,and molecular docking simulation verified that the active components of WQY had excellent binding abilities with IL-4,IL-10,GATA3 and FOXP3 proteins.Conclusion:The present study demonstrated that WQY effectively relieved AD symptoms in mice,decreased the inflammatory factors levels,regulated the balance of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)cells,and the mechanism may be associated with the suppression of Th2 and Treg cell immune responses.展开更多
The combination of Daphnes Cortex(DC)and Liquorice Root(LR),two traditional Chinese medicinal herbs,has shown significant therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis(RA),but its synergistic mechanism of action remains...The combination of Daphnes Cortex(DC)and Liquorice Root(LR),two traditional Chinese medicinal herbs,has shown significant therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis(RA),but its synergistic mechanism of action remains to be elucidated.Employing a network pharmacology and molecular docking approach,this study systematically investigated the synergistic mechanism of the herb pair DC and LR in RA treatment.Active components and their corresponding targets were retrieved from the TCMSP database and relevant literature,and RA-related targets were collected from established disease databases.A total of 73 overlapping targets between DC-LR and RA were identified,among which core targets such as AKT1,TNF,and CASP3 were highlighted.GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that these targets are involved in biological processes such as oxidative stress response and cell migration,and are significantly enriched in key pathways including HIF-1,TNF,and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways.Compatibility analysis further revealed that the combination of DC and LR may enhance therapeutic effects through synergistic regulation of shared targets and complementary modulation of upstream and downstream pathway components.Molecular docking confirmed strong binding affinities between core active components and key targets.This study provides a multi-dimensional“component-target-pathway”perspective on the potential synergistic anti-RA mechanism of the DC-LR herb pair,offering a theoretical basis for further experimental validation and clinical application.展开更多
Potentilla discolor Bunge, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has been extensively utilized for treating diverse ailments including diabetes, bacterial infections, viral diseases, and inflammatory disorders. Modern...Potentilla discolor Bunge, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has been extensively utilized for treating diverse ailments including diabetes, bacterial infections, viral diseases, and inflammatory disorders. Modern phytochemical investigations have identified over 200 bioactive compounds, predominantly flavonoids, tannins, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids. Pharmacological studies demonstrate that P. discolor exerts multi-target therapeutic effects through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Its mechanisms involve modulation of key signaling pathways including PI3K/Akt, MAPK, NF-κB, and Nrf2/HO-1, alongside regulation of glucose-lipid metabolism and gut microbiota. This review systematically summarizes the phytochemistry, traditional applications, and contemporary pharmacological advances of P. discolor, emphasizing its multi-target characteristics and molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, current research limitations and future perspectives are discussed to provide scientific evidence for its clinical development and therapeutic applications.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To explore the mechanism of Baitouweng Tang(白头翁汤,Pulsatilla decoction,PD)alleviates dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis(UC)in mice by integrating network pharmacology prediction with e...OBJECTIVE:To explore the mechanism of Baitouweng Tang(白头翁汤,Pulsatilla decoction,PD)alleviates dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis(UC)in mice by integrating network pharmacology prediction with experimental validation,focusing on the modulation of inflammatory signaling.METHODS:A chronic UC model was induced in C57BL/6 mice by cyclical administration of DSS.Mice were treated with either a low(15 m L/kg)or high(30 m L/kg)dose of PD.Disease severity was assessed clinically and via histopathology.Serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were quantified.A network pharmacology approach was employed to predict the core targets and pathways of PD against UC.Key predictions concerning the toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B(TLR4/NF-κB)pathway were subsequently verified in colonic tissue using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting.RESULTS:PD treatment significantly ameliorated DSSinduced UC symptoms,including reducing disease activity,preventing colon shortening,and improving histological architecture.PD effectively rebalanced the systemic inflammatory milieu by decreasing proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6(IL-6)and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and elevating anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-10(IL-10).Network pharmacology analysis identified the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway as a central target.Experimental validation confirmed that PD markedly suppressed the upregulation of both TLR4 and NF-κB at the transcriptional and protein levels in the inflamed colon.CONCLUSION:PD demonstrates protective effects against experimental UC.Its mechanism is associated with the inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and the subsequent attenuation of inflammatory responses.This study provides a modern pharmacological basis for the classical application of PD in treating heat-toxin related intestinal disorders,bridging traditional use and mechanistic understanding.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the pharmacological effects and underlying mechanisms of Pinggan Yuyin Qingre formula(平肝育阴清热方,PGYYQR)in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD)through network pharmacology and...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the pharmacological effects and underlying mechanisms of Pinggan Yuyin Qingre formula(平肝育阴清热方,PGYYQR)in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD)through network pharmacology and in vivo validation.METHODS:A mouse model of MGD was induced using the stearoyl-coenzyme a desaturase 1 inhibitor,followed by PGYYQR treatment for 2 weeks.MGD sign scoring,hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining,oil red o(ORO)staining,and serum inflammatory cytokine analysis were conducted to assess the effects of PGYYQR on meibomian gland(MG)function,histopathology,and associated inflammation.Network pharmacology was employed to identify the active compounds and potential targets of PGYYQR.Molecular mechanisms were further investigated using Western blotting,reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,and reactive oxygen species(ROS)assays.RESULTS:PGYYQR treatment significantly reduced the scores of MG orifice obstruction and meibum quality in MGD mice.HE and ORO staining further demonstrated that PGYYQR ameliorated glandular damage and lipid dysfunction.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results revealed that PGYYQR markedly decreased the serum levels of key inflammatory cytokines,including interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,and tumor necrosis factor-α.Network pharmacology identified 162 active compounds and 598 target genes in PGYYQR.Among these,IL-6,IL-1β,matrix metalloproteinase-9,and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 were recognized as core targets related to MGD and were mainly enriched in the IL-17/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathway.Further molecular analyses confirmed that PGYYQR significantly inhibited the IL-17/NF-κB axis by downregulating IL-17 expression and reducing phosphorylated NF-κB p65 levels at both the protein and m RNA levels in MG tissues.PGYYQR also effectively reduced ROS levels in the conjunctival tissues of MGD mice.CONCLUSION:PGYYQR effectively improves MG function and preserves local tissue morphology in MGD model mice,primarily by suppressing the inflammatory response through coordinated modulation of the IL-17/NF-κB signaling pathway and oxidative stress.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To identify the antitumor effects of Gualou Beimu Yin(瓜蒌贝母饮,GLBMY)in triple-negative breast cancer(TNBC)and to explore the underlying mechanisms.METHODS:A mouse model of breast cancer was established an...OBJECTIVE:To identify the antitumor effects of Gualou Beimu Yin(瓜蒌贝母饮,GLBMY)in triple-negative breast cancer(TNBC)and to explore the underlying mechanisms.METHODS:A mouse model of breast cancer was established and treated with GLBMY.Freeze-dried GLBMY powder was used to treat MDA-MB-231 and BT549 cells to assess the therapeutic efficacy of GLBMY against TNBC.Network pharmacology,transcriptomics and metabolomics were employed to identify the potential mechanism of GLBMY in TNBC treatment.Finally,the main regulating genes and proteins in the enriched pathways were validated by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(q PCR)and Western blotting analysis to confirm its mechanism.RESULTS:GLBMY can inhibit the growth of TNBC through apoptosis and necroptosis pathways and inhibit TNBC lung metastasis by inhibiting epithelialmesenchymal transition(EMT).Network pharmacology has elucidated the most important active ingredients(tubeimoside I,emodin,cucurbitacin,and ursolic acid)and the most critical targets[interleukin-6(IL6),signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3),mitogen-activated protein kinase 3(MAPK3)]of GLBMY in treating TNBC.RNA-seq revealed that GLBMY affected the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells,rat sarcoma virus,and MAPK signalling pathways.Metabolomics revealed that the metabolites mainly affected by GLBMY were L-(+)-lactic acid,isocitric acid,benzoic acid and indoxyl sulfate.Subsequent experiments demonstrated that GLBMY can inhibit EMT in TNBC through the MAPK/ERK pathway and inhibit the proliferation and progression of TNBC through the IL6-STAT signalling pathway.CONCLUSIONS:We confirmed that GLBMY inhibits the development and metastasis of TNBC through the MAPK/Erk and IL6-STAT signalling pathways.GLBMY shows promise as a long-term supplementary or alternative therapy for TNBC,offering new insights for TNBC treatment.展开更多
This study explored the therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of Huangqi Guizhi Decoction (HGD) in alleviatingpulmonary embolism (PE) by employing network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques. Firstly,...This study explored the therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of Huangqi Guizhi Decoction (HGD) in alleviatingpulmonary embolism (PE) by employing network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques. Firstly, the effective activecomponents of the Chinese herbs in HGD were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database(TCMSP), and their potential therapeutic targets were predicted using the Swiss Target Prediction platform. Subsequently, PErelatedtarget genes were obtained from the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database and GeneCards database.Then, the Wei Sheng Xin tool was used to generate a Venn diagram for identifying the common targets between the herb-relatedtargets and PE-related targets. After screening these common targets, a “drug-component-target network” and a protein-proteininteraction (PPI) network were constructed. Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia ofGenes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were conducted on the intersecting targets, and molecular docking verificationwas performed using AutoDockTools and PyMol software. Finally, 20 active components were screened from Astragali Radix, 7from Cinnamomi Ramulus, 13 from Paeoniae Radix Alba, 5 from Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens, and 29 from Jujubae Fructus, witha total of 983 therapeutic targets. Among these targets, 134 were associated with PE, and protein kinase B1 (AKT1), mitogenactivatedprotein kinase 1 (MAPK1), and transformation-related protein 53 (TP53) served as the core targets. The results of GOand KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the alleviation of PE by HGD is mainly related to pathways including immuneresponse, regulation of gene expression, atherosclerosis, and tumorigenesis. Molecular docking results showed that the keyactive components in HGD could bind to the core targets spontaneously and stably. This study revealed that HGD may alleviatesymptoms in PE patients by regulating signaling pathways, modulating platelet function to exert anticoagulant effects, andregulating the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, which provided a direction for subsequent experimental research.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of action of Panax notoginseng(Burk)F.H.Chen(P.notoginseng,San Qi)flowers in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)using network pharmacology,in vivo experiments,a...Objective:To investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of action of Panax notoginseng(Burk)F.H.Chen(P.notoginseng,San Qi)flowers in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)using network pharmacology,in vivo experiments,and RNA sequencing(RNA-seq).Methods:Network pharmacology analysis was performed to identify and correlate the drug targets of flower buds of P.notoginseng(PNF)with T2DM disease targets and to predict the key targets and pathways involved in the therapeutic effects of PNF in T2DM.In vivo experiments were conducted to assess the effects of PNF on glucose and lipid metabolism in mice with T2DM.RNA-seq was performed,and the results were integrated with network pharmacology data to assess the therapeutic mechanisms of PNF in T2DM.The results from transcriptomics and network pharmacology were validated using real-time polymerase chain reaction.Results:A total of 27 intersecting targets were identified by overlapping 35 drug targets with T2DM targets.Further topological analysis using the Centiscape 2.2 tool revealed five core targets,including signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3).Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)pathway analysis indicated that the JAK/STAT signaling pathway is a key mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of PNF in T2DM.In vivo experiments confirmed that PNF effectively regulates glycolipid metabolism in a mouse model of diabetes.KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of RNA-seq data highlighted the JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT pathway as a potential mechanism.PNF high-dose(PNFH)increased the gene expression levels of PIK3R1 and AKT2,decreased the expression of PCK1,JAK2,and STAT3,and showed a trend toward increasing INSR expression without reaching statistical significance.Conclusion:PNF improves glycolipid metabolism disorders in T2DM,potentially by modulating the JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.展开更多
1.Discipline origins In 1984,“analytical pharmacology”was firstly used in the paper entitled“The future of analytical pharmacologyda personal view”by Dr.J.S.Cridland,director of a clinical pharmacological laborato...1.Discipline origins In 1984,“analytical pharmacology”was firstly used in the paper entitled“The future of analytical pharmacologyda personal view”by Dr.J.S.Cridland,director of a clinical pharmacological laboratory at Department of Pharmacology,University of Cape Town.He proposed“Analytical pharmacology is at present usually a tool of clinical pharmacology”,which is mainly used for therapeutic drug monitoring,analysis of clinical pharmacokinetics,and toxicological screening to provide a basis for reasonable medication and clinical dose adjustment[1].In 1984,W.J.Black,Director of Wellcome Research Laboratories,was offered a personal Chair at King's College Hospital School of Medicine and Dentistry,part of King's College London.He chose“Analytical Pharmacology”as a title for the Chair[2].展开更多
Erigerontis Herba(EH),the dried whole plant of Erigeron breviscapus,is well-known for circulating blood,activating meridians to alleviate pain,expelling wind,and clearing away cold.It has been extensively utilized in ...Erigerontis Herba(EH),the dried whole plant of Erigeron breviscapus,is well-known for circulating blood,activating meridians to alleviate pain,expelling wind,and clearing away cold.It has been extensively utilized in southern China for the treatment of stroke hemiplegia,chest stuffiness and pains,rheumatic arthralgia,headache,and toothache.This review focuses on the botany,ethnopharmacology,phytochemistry,pharmacology and toxicity of EH and its related prescriptions to offer new insights for prospective research of EH.Relevant information about EH was retrieved from ancient records and books,PubMed,China National Knowledge Infrastructure,Chinese Pharmacopoeia,Web of Science,Doctoral and Master’s Theses,and various electronic databases.EH is a member of Compositae family and is mainly grown in southern China.Traditional Chinese medicine records that EH has the effects of circulating blood and removing blood stasis,expelling wind,and removing cold,as well as relieving rigidity of muscle and relieving pain.By now,nearly 200 ingredients have been characterized from EH,including flavonoids,caffeoyls,aromatic acids,coumarins,pentacyclic terpenoids,volatile oil and other compounds.EH extracts,EH related prescriptions(Dengzhan Xixin injection,Dengzhan Shengmai capsules,etc.)or compounds(scutellarin,scutellarein,etc.)possessed obvious therapeutic effects of ischemic stroke,cerebral hemorrhage,myocardial infarction,Alzheimer’s disease,diabetes and its complications,gastric cancer,bone,and joint degenerative diseases.Scutellarin,the major active compound of EH,has been used as a quality marker.And no obvious toxicity of EH has been reported.According to its traditional applications,ethnopharmacology,phytochemistry,pharmacology,and toxicity,EH was applied as a valuable herb for clinical application in food and medicine fields.While several compounds have been shown to possess diverse biological activities,the underlying mechanisms of their actions remain elusive.To fully exploit the medicinal potential of EH,further studies on understanding the effective material basis and mechanisms are warranted.展开更多
The article concluded that network pharmacology provides new ideas and insights into the molecular mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)treatment of cancer.TCM is a new choice and hot spot in the field of can...The article concluded that network pharmacology provides new ideas and insights into the molecular mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)treatment of cancer.TCM is a new choice and hot spot in the field of cancer treatment.We have also previously published studies on TCM and network pharmacology.In this letter,we summarize the new paradigm of network pharmacology in cancer treatment mechanisms.展开更多
The research and development of new traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)drugs have progressively established a novel system founded on the integration of TCM theory,human experience,and clinical trials(termed the“Three ...The research and development of new traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)drugs have progressively established a novel system founded on the integration of TCM theory,human experience,and clinical trials(termed the“Three Combinations”).However,considering TCM's distinctive features of“syndrome differentiation and treatment”and“multicomponent formulations and complex mechanisms”,current TCM drug development faces challenges such as insufficient understanding of the material basis and the overall mechanism of action and an incomplete evidence chain system.Moreover,significant obstacles persist in gathering human experience data,evaluating clinical efficacy,and controlling the quality of active ingredients,which impede the innovation process in TCM drug development.Network pharmacology,centered on the“network targets”theory,transcends the limitations of the conventional“single target”reductionist research model.It emphasizes the comprehensive effects of disease or syndrome biological networks as targets to elucidate the overall regulatory mechanism of TCM prescriptions.This approach aligns with the holistic perspective of TCM,offering a novel method consistent with TCM's holistic view for investigating the complex mechanisms of TCM and developing new TCM drugs.It is internationally recognized as a“next-generation drug research model”.To advance the research of new tools,methods,and standards for TCM evaluation and to overcome fundamental,critical,and cutting-edge technical challenges in TCM regulation,this consensus aims to explore the characteristics,progress,challenges,applicable pathways,and specific applications of network pharmacology as a new theory,method,and tool in TCM drug development.The goal is to enhance the quality of TCM drug research and development and accelerate the efficiency of developing new TCM products.展开更多
Network pharmacology has gained widespread application in drug discovery,particularly in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)research,which is characterized by its“multi-component,multi-target,and multi-pathway”nature....Network pharmacology has gained widespread application in drug discovery,particularly in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)research,which is characterized by its“multi-component,multi-target,and multi-pathway”nature.Through the integration of network biology,TCM network pharmacology enables systematic evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and detailed elucidation of action mechanisms,establishing a novel research paradigm for TCM modernization.The rapid advancement of machine learning,particularly revolutionary deep learning methods,has substantially enhanced artificial intelligence(AI)technology,offering significant potential to advance TCM network pharmacology research.This paper describes the methodology of TCM network pharmacology,encompassing ingredient identification,network construction,network analysis,and experimental validation.Furthermore,it summarizes key strategies for constructing various networks and analyzing constructed networks using AI methods.Finally,it addresses challenges and future directions regarding cell-cell communication(CCC)-based network construction,analysis,and validation,providing valuable insights for TCM network pharmacology.展开更多
Background Meat originating from the spent hen is an important source of poultry meat production;however,multiple factors cause the decline in the meat quality of spent hens.Chinese herbs have been widely used as medi...Background Meat originating from the spent hen is an important source of poultry meat production;however,multiple factors cause the decline in the meat quality of spent hens.Chinese herbs have been widely used as medi-cine for a long time to prevent diseases and as nutrient supplements to improve the product quality.This experi-ment explored the effects of adding 1.0%Chinese herbal formula(CHF,including 0.30%Leonurus japonicus Houtt.,0.20%Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge.,0.25%Ligustrum lucidum Ait.,and 0.25%Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz.)for 120 d to the spent hens’diet through metabolomics,network pharmacology,and microbiome strategies.Results The results indicated that CHF supplementation improved the meat quality by reducing drip loss(P<0.05),b*value(P=0.058),and shear force(P=0.099)and increasing cooked meat percentage(P=0.054)and dry matter(P<0.05)of breast muscle.The addition of CHF improved the nutritional value of breast muscle by increasing(P<0.05)the content of C18:2n-6,n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA),total PUFA,PUFA-to-saturated fatty acids(SFA)ratio,and hypocholesterolemic-to-hypercholesterolemic ratio,and tending to increase serine content(P=0.069).The targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that the biosynthesis of SFA,linoleic acid metabolism,fatty acid degradation,fatty acid elongation,and fatty acid biosynthesis pathways were enriched by CHF supplementation.Furthermore,the network pharmacology analysis indicated that CHF was closely associated with oxidative stress and lipid metabo-lism.The CHF supplementation increased the glutathione peroxidase level(P<0.05)and upregulated gene expres-sion related to the Nrf2 pathway(including HO-1,P<0.05;Nrf2,P=0.098;CAT,P=0.060;GPX1,P=0.063;and SOD2,P=0.052)and lipid metabolism(including PPARγ,P<0.05;SREBP1,P=0.059;and CPT1A,P=0.058).Additionally,CHF supplementation increased Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidetes,Spirochaetes,and Synergistetes abundances(P<0.05),which may contribute to better meat quality.Conclusions Our results suggest that CHF supplementation improved the quality and nutritional value of meat,which will provide a theoretical basis for the utilization of CHF as a feed additive in spent hens’diets.展开更多
Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)demonstrates distinctive advantages in disease prevention and treatment.However,analyzing its biological mechanisms through the modern medical research paradigm of“single drug,single ...Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)demonstrates distinctive advantages in disease prevention and treatment.However,analyzing its biological mechanisms through the modern medical research paradigm of“single drug,single target”presents significant challenges due to its holistic approach.Network pharmacology and its core theory of network targets connect drugs and diseases from a holistic and systematic perspective based on biological networks,overcoming the limitations of reductionist research models and showing considerable value in TCM research.Recent integration of network target computational and experimental methods with artificial intelligence(AI)and multi-modal multi-omics technologies has substantially enhanced network pharmacology methodology.The advancement in computational and experimental techniques provides complementary support for network target theory in decoding TCM principles.This review,centered on network targets,examines the progress of network target methods combined with AI in predicting disease molecular mechanisms and drug-target relationships,alongside the application of multi-modal multi-omics technologies in analyzing TCM formulae,syndromes,and toxicity.Looking forward,network target theory is expected to incorporate emerging technologies while developing novel approaches aligned with its unique characteristics,potentially leading to significant breakthroughs in TCM research and advancing scientific understanding and innovation in TCM.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To explore the potential molecular mechanism of Qigu capsule(芪骨胶囊,QGC) in the treatment of sarcopenia through network pharmacology and to verify it experimentally.METHODS:The active compounds of QGC and ...OBJECTIVE:To explore the potential molecular mechanism of Qigu capsule(芪骨胶囊,QGC) in the treatment of sarcopenia through network pharmacology and to verify it experimentally.METHODS:The active compounds of QGC and common targets between QGC and sarcopenia were screened from databases.Then the herbs-compounds-targets network,and protein-protein interaction(PPI) network was constructed.Gene ontology(GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed by R software.Next,we used a dexamethasone-induced sarcopenia mouse model to evaluate the anti-sarcopenic mechanism of QGC.RESULTS:A total of 57 common targets of QGC and sarcopenia were obtained.Based on the enrichment analysis of GO and KEGG,we took the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt) signaling pathway as a key target to explore the mechanism of QGC on sarcopenia.Animal experiments showed that QGC could increase muscle strength and inhibit muscle fiber atrophy.In the model group,the expression of muscle ring finger-1 and Atrogin-1 were increased,while myosin heavy chain was decreased,QGC treatment reversed these changes.Moreover,compared with the model group,the expressions of pPI3K,p-Akt,p-mammalian target of rapamycin and pForkhead box O3 in the QGC group were all upregulated.CONCLUSION:QGC exerts an anti-sarcopenic effect by activating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to regulate skeletal muscle protein metabolism.展开更多
文摘To explore the material basis and mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effects of Hibiscus mutabilis L..The active ingredients and potential targets of Hibiscus mutabilis L.were obtained through the literature review and SwissADME platform.Genes related to the inflammation were collected using Genecards and OMIM databases,and the intersection genes were submitted on STRING and DAVID websites.Then,the protein interaction network(PPI),gene ontology(GO)and pathway(KEGG)were analyzed.Cytoscape 3.7.2 software was used to construct the“Hibiscus mutabilis L.-active ingredient-target-inflammation”network diagram,and AutoDockTools-1.5.6 software was used for the molecular docking verification.The antiinflammatory effect of Hibiscus mutabilis L.active ingredient was verified by the RAW264.7 inflammatory cell model.The results showed that 11 active components and 94 potential targets,1029 inflammatory targets and 24 intersection targets were obtained from Hibiscus mutabilis L..The key anti-inflammatory active ingredients of Hibiscus mutabilis L.are quercetin,apigenin and luteolin.Its action pathway is mainly related to NF-κB,cancer pathway and TNF signaling pathway.Cell experiments showed that total flavonoids of Hibiscus mutabilis L.could effectively inhibit the expression of tumor necrosis factor(TNF-α),interleukin 8(IL-8)and epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR)in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 inflammatory cells.It also downregulates the phosphorylation of human nuclear factor ĸB inhibitory protein α(IĸBα)and NF-κB p65 subunit protein(p65).Overall,the anti-inflammatory effect of Hibiscus mutabilis L.is related to many active components,many signal pathways and targets,which provides a theoretical basis for its further development and application.
文摘Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)was identified as the most prevalent form of diabetes.This study employed an integrated strategy combining network pharmacology,metabolomics,and experimental validation to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms of red mulberry water extract(RMW)in T2DM.Systematic analysis identified six bioactive constituents,with four key components(cyanidin,quercetin,morin,andβ-carotene)demonstrating significant interactions with diabetes-related targets.Network pharmacology revealed these compounds modulate critical pathways including AMPK(P=2.3×10^(−5)),PI3K-Akt(P=1.8×10^(−4)),and PPAR signaling(P=3.1×10^(−3)).In diabetic mice,treatment significantly improved glycemic control(32.5%reduction in fasting glucose,P<0.01),lipid profiles(36.7%lower TG,P<0.05),antioxidant activity(2.1-fold increased SOD,P<0.05),and inflammation(42%reduced TNF-α,P<0.05).Metabolomic analysis further confirmed alterations in catecholamine and lipid metabolism pathways.These findings collectively demonstrate mulberry's multi-target therapeutic potential through synergistic regulation of glucose metabolism,lipid homeostasis,oxidative stress,and inflammatory responses in diabetes.
基金supported by the Jilin Science and Technology Development Talent Special Project,Nos.20240601086RC,23JQ08(all to ZH)YDZJ202502CXJD077+1 种基金JLARS-2025-0802-09YDZJ202501ZYTS706.
文摘Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,osteoporosis,low immunity,glucose and lipid metabolism disorders,and cardiovascular diseases.With the continuous increase of the elderly population,the pressure on the medical industry is increasing.To lower the burden on the medical industry and increase the average age of the elderly,it is vital to explore effective anti-aging materials.Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma(Renshen),as a traditional and precious Chinese medicinal herb,is known as the“king of all herbs”.It is famous for its effects of“tonifying Qi,restoring pulse”(helping with the generation of Qi(the fundamental,vital energy that continuously flows within the body)and the circulation of blood)and strengthening the body,nourishing the spleen and lungs,generating fluids and nourishing blood,calming the mind and improving intelligence.Recently,its anti-aging effect has received increasing attention from modern scientific research.This study summarizes the pharmacological effects of the main active ingredients of Renshen(ginsenosides,polysaccharides,etc.)on resisting aging,including preventing neuroaging,suppressing skin aging,mitigating ovarian aging,inhibiting osteoporosis and arthritis,enhancing the immune system of the elderly,protecting the cardiovascular system,resisting aging-induced fatigue and exerting the anti-tumor effects.Through network pharmacology and molecular docking,the anti-aging active ingredients of Renshen were screened,and the key targets and pathways of anti-aging active ingredients in Renshen were determined.Using network pharmacology,totally 106 drug targets and 3,479 disease targets were screened,and 79 common targets between aging and Renshen were identified.Three core targets were identified in the PPI network,including TNF,AKT1,and IL-1β.Molecular docking was used to obtain further verification.This study emphasizes the potential of Renshen as a source of anti-aging activity,which can be developed into a novel drug for the treatment of age-related diseases.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China:Study on the Mechanism of Airway Inflammation in Rats with Bronchial Asthma Cold Drink Lung Syndrome Treated with Metastasis Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1 Regulated Autophagy(No.82004233)the Shandong Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project:Exploring the Mechanism of Xiaoqinglong Tang's Intervention in Bronchial Asthma Cold Drink Lung Syndrome through the"Temperature Sensing Channel Transient Receptor Potential Mitochondrial Autophagy"Pathway based on Transcriptomics Combined with Proteomics(No.MR20241737)+3 种基金Shandong Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project:Optimization of Ultrasonic Extraction Process and Study on Structure and Activity of Asarum Polysaccharides(No.Q-2023042)Shandong Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project:Study on the Mechanism of Ma Gui Synergistic Intervention on Airway Inflammatory Response in Rats with Asthma Cold Drink and Lung Accumulation Syndrome(No.Q-2023122)2023 Qilu Biancang Traditional Chinese Medicine Talent Cultivation ProjectShandong Province Medical and Health Science and Technology Development Plan Project:Study on the Mechanism of Airway Epithelial Cell Inflammation Induced by Cellular Autophagy Regulation lnc RNA Metastasis Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1 Antagonism Against Ovalbumin Intervention(No.202203020866)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the key targets and mechanisms of the Wenyang Huayin decoction(WYHYD,温阳化饮方)in treating bronchial asthma with cold fluid retention syndrome using network pharmacology and animal experiments.METHODS:On the one hand,we used network pharmacology method to explored the chemical components of the WYHYD and the main targets of bronchial asthma were acquired.Besides,a protein interaction network was built after protein interaction analysis to find potential protein functional modules.Then,we constructed the"WYHYD component-bronchial asthma target-pathway"network.On the other hand,the experimental intervention was as follows:first,we formed a rat model of bronchial asthma.Thereafter,we used the WYHYD to treat the disease while observing autophagyrelated indicators as the core target of network pharmacology.RESULTS:The network pharmacology revealed that there are 122 potential therapeutic targets in treating bronchial asthma with WYHYD.The biological processes mainly involved in the WYHYD included Gene Ontology:0110032:positive regulation of G2/MI transition of the medical cell cycle etc.and four major signaling pathways were involved.During laboratory investigations,various signs and clinical manifestations of the rat model group were the same.After administering the WYHYD,lung function,pathological sections,inflammatory factors,and other microscopic indicators improved to varying degrees,providing evidence for the study results.Meanwhile,we verified that the core targets of WYHYD in treating asthma through the intervention of autophagy are tumor necrosis factor,caspase 8,interleukin 1 beta,sirtuin 1,phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3,C-C chemokine receptor type 7,L/YN kinase,and protein tyrosine kinase 2.CONCLUSION:This preliminary study revealed the treatment process of bronchial asthma with multicomponent,multi-target,and multi-pathway mechanisms of the WYHYD.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82004252)the Project of Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Guangdong Province(202405112017596500)the Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangzhou Municipal Science and Technology Bureau(202102020533).
文摘Background:Wenqing Yin(WQY)is a classic prescription used to treat skin diseases like atopic dermatitis(AD)in China,and the aim of this study is to investigate the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of WQY on AD.Methods:The DNFB-induced mouse models of AD were established to investigate the therapeutic effects of WQY on AD.The symptoms of AD in the ears and backs of the mice were assessed,while inflammatory factors in the ear were quantified using quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR),and the percentages of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)cells in the spleen were analyzed through flow cytometry.The compounds in WQY were identified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(UPLC-MS/MS)analysis and the key targets and pathways of WQY to treat AD were predicted by network pharmacology.Subsequently,the key genes were tested and verified by qRT-PCR,and the potential active components and target proteins were verified by molecular docking.Results:WQY relieved the AD symptoms and histopathological injuries in the ear and back skin of mice with AD.Meanwhile,WQY significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory factors IL-6 and IL-1βin ear tissue,as well as the ratio of CD4^(+)/CD8^(+)cells in spleen.Additionally,a total of 142 compounds were identified from the water extract of WQY by UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS.39 key targets related to AD were screened out by network pharmacology methods.The KEGG analysis indicated that the effects of WQY were primarily mediated through pathways associated with Toll-like receptor signaling and T cell receptor signaling.Moreover,the results of qRT-PCR demonstrated that WQY significantly reduced the mRNA expressions of IL-4,IL-10,GATA3 and FOXP3,and molecular docking simulation verified that the active components of WQY had excellent binding abilities with IL-4,IL-10,GATA3 and FOXP3 proteins.Conclusion:The present study demonstrated that WQY effectively relieved AD symptoms in mice,decreased the inflammatory factors levels,regulated the balance of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)cells,and the mechanism may be associated with the suppression of Th2 and Treg cell immune responses.
基金supported by National Training Program of Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Undergraduates(202510163044).
文摘The combination of Daphnes Cortex(DC)and Liquorice Root(LR),two traditional Chinese medicinal herbs,has shown significant therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis(RA),but its synergistic mechanism of action remains to be elucidated.Employing a network pharmacology and molecular docking approach,this study systematically investigated the synergistic mechanism of the herb pair DC and LR in RA treatment.Active components and their corresponding targets were retrieved from the TCMSP database and relevant literature,and RA-related targets were collected from established disease databases.A total of 73 overlapping targets between DC-LR and RA were identified,among which core targets such as AKT1,TNF,and CASP3 were highlighted.GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that these targets are involved in biological processes such as oxidative stress response and cell migration,and are significantly enriched in key pathways including HIF-1,TNF,and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways.Compatibility analysis further revealed that the combination of DC and LR may enhance therapeutic effects through synergistic regulation of shared targets and complementary modulation of upstream and downstream pathway components.Molecular docking confirmed strong binding affinities between core active components and key targets.This study provides a multi-dimensional“component-target-pathway”perspective on the potential synergistic anti-RA mechanism of the DC-LR herb pair,offering a theoretical basis for further experimental validation and clinical application.
文摘Potentilla discolor Bunge, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has been extensively utilized for treating diverse ailments including diabetes, bacterial infections, viral diseases, and inflammatory disorders. Modern phytochemical investigations have identified over 200 bioactive compounds, predominantly flavonoids, tannins, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids. Pharmacological studies demonstrate that P. discolor exerts multi-target therapeutic effects through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Its mechanisms involve modulation of key signaling pathways including PI3K/Akt, MAPK, NF-κB, and Nrf2/HO-1, alongside regulation of glucose-lipid metabolism and gut microbiota. This review systematically summarizes the phytochemistry, traditional applications, and contemporary pharmacological advances of P. discolor, emphasizing its multi-target characteristics and molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, current research limitations and future perspectives are discussed to provide scientific evidence for its clinical development and therapeutic applications.
基金Supported by Shandong Provincial Natural Science,Study on the Structure-Activity Relationship and Mechanism of Licorice Chalcone Components in Synergizing with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Anticancer Therapy(No.ZR2020MH380)Mechanisms of the Novel Flavone C-Glycoside 6'-ORhamnosyllutonarin from Dianthus superbus Improves Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease via Modulating the Juxtaposed with Another Zinc Finger gene 1/Adenosine Monophosphate-activated Protein Kinase/Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein Pathway(No.ZR2024MC209)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To explore the mechanism of Baitouweng Tang(白头翁汤,Pulsatilla decoction,PD)alleviates dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis(UC)in mice by integrating network pharmacology prediction with experimental validation,focusing on the modulation of inflammatory signaling.METHODS:A chronic UC model was induced in C57BL/6 mice by cyclical administration of DSS.Mice were treated with either a low(15 m L/kg)or high(30 m L/kg)dose of PD.Disease severity was assessed clinically and via histopathology.Serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were quantified.A network pharmacology approach was employed to predict the core targets and pathways of PD against UC.Key predictions concerning the toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor-kappa B(TLR4/NF-κB)pathway were subsequently verified in colonic tissue using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting.RESULTS:PD treatment significantly ameliorated DSSinduced UC symptoms,including reducing disease activity,preventing colon shortening,and improving histological architecture.PD effectively rebalanced the systemic inflammatory milieu by decreasing proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6(IL-6)and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and elevating anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-10(IL-10).Network pharmacology analysis identified the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway as a central target.Experimental validation confirmed that PD markedly suppressed the upregulation of both TLR4 and NF-κB at the transcriptional and protein levels in the inflamed colon.CONCLUSION:PD demonstrates protective effects against experimental UC.Its mechanism is associated with the inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and the subsequent attenuation of inflammatory responses.This study provides a modern pharmacological basis for the classical application of PD in treating heat-toxin related intestinal disorders,bridging traditional use and mechanistic understanding.
基金Supported by National Famous and Senior Chinese Medicine Expert Heritage Studio Construction Project:Zhi Nan Heritage Studio(No.75[2022])Beijing Municipal Key Traditional Chinese Medicine Specialty Development Project during the 14th Five-Year Plan Period(No.BJZKBC0029)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the pharmacological effects and underlying mechanisms of Pinggan Yuyin Qingre formula(平肝育阴清热方,PGYYQR)in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction(MGD)through network pharmacology and in vivo validation.METHODS:A mouse model of MGD was induced using the stearoyl-coenzyme a desaturase 1 inhibitor,followed by PGYYQR treatment for 2 weeks.MGD sign scoring,hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining,oil red o(ORO)staining,and serum inflammatory cytokine analysis were conducted to assess the effects of PGYYQR on meibomian gland(MG)function,histopathology,and associated inflammation.Network pharmacology was employed to identify the active compounds and potential targets of PGYYQR.Molecular mechanisms were further investigated using Western blotting,reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,and reactive oxygen species(ROS)assays.RESULTS:PGYYQR treatment significantly reduced the scores of MG orifice obstruction and meibum quality in MGD mice.HE and ORO staining further demonstrated that PGYYQR ameliorated glandular damage and lipid dysfunction.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results revealed that PGYYQR markedly decreased the serum levels of key inflammatory cytokines,including interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,and tumor necrosis factor-α.Network pharmacology identified 162 active compounds and 598 target genes in PGYYQR.Among these,IL-6,IL-1β,matrix metalloproteinase-9,and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 were recognized as core targets related to MGD and were mainly enriched in the IL-17/nuclear factor kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathway.Further molecular analyses confirmed that PGYYQR significantly inhibited the IL-17/NF-κB axis by downregulating IL-17 expression and reducing phosphorylated NF-κB p65 levels at both the protein and m RNA levels in MG tissues.PGYYQR also effectively reduced ROS levels in the conjunctival tissues of MGD mice.CONCLUSION:PGYYQR effectively improves MG function and preserves local tissue morphology in MGD model mice,primarily by suppressing the inflammatory response through coordinated modulation of the IL-17/NF-κB signaling pathway and oxidative stress.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China:Study on Mechanism of Transdifferentiation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Induced by Huoxue Ruanjian Traditional Chinese Medicine (No. 82174103)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To identify the antitumor effects of Gualou Beimu Yin(瓜蒌贝母饮,GLBMY)in triple-negative breast cancer(TNBC)and to explore the underlying mechanisms.METHODS:A mouse model of breast cancer was established and treated with GLBMY.Freeze-dried GLBMY powder was used to treat MDA-MB-231 and BT549 cells to assess the therapeutic efficacy of GLBMY against TNBC.Network pharmacology,transcriptomics and metabolomics were employed to identify the potential mechanism of GLBMY in TNBC treatment.Finally,the main regulating genes and proteins in the enriched pathways were validated by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(q PCR)and Western blotting analysis to confirm its mechanism.RESULTS:GLBMY can inhibit the growth of TNBC through apoptosis and necroptosis pathways and inhibit TNBC lung metastasis by inhibiting epithelialmesenchymal transition(EMT).Network pharmacology has elucidated the most important active ingredients(tubeimoside I,emodin,cucurbitacin,and ursolic acid)and the most critical targets[interleukin-6(IL6),signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3),mitogen-activated protein kinase 3(MAPK3)]of GLBMY in treating TNBC.RNA-seq revealed that GLBMY affected the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells,rat sarcoma virus,and MAPK signalling pathways.Metabolomics revealed that the metabolites mainly affected by GLBMY were L-(+)-lactic acid,isocitric acid,benzoic acid and indoxyl sulfate.Subsequent experiments demonstrated that GLBMY can inhibit EMT in TNBC through the MAPK/ERK pathway and inhibit the proliferation and progression of TNBC through the IL6-STAT signalling pathway.CONCLUSIONS:We confirmed that GLBMY inhibits the development and metastasis of TNBC through the MAPK/Erk and IL6-STAT signalling pathways.GLBMY shows promise as a long-term supplementary or alternative therapy for TNBC,offering new insights for TNBC treatment.
基金supported by Research Project on Traditional Chinese Medicine in Heilongjiang Province in 2025(Research on the pharmacological substance basis of Huangqi Guizhi decoction in improving acute pulmonary embolism and lung injury based on the theory of“Diaphoresis and expanding meridian”No.ZHY2025-043).
文摘This study explored the therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of Huangqi Guizhi Decoction (HGD) in alleviatingpulmonary embolism (PE) by employing network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques. Firstly, the effective activecomponents of the Chinese herbs in HGD were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database(TCMSP), and their potential therapeutic targets were predicted using the Swiss Target Prediction platform. Subsequently, PErelatedtarget genes were obtained from the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database and GeneCards database.Then, the Wei Sheng Xin tool was used to generate a Venn diagram for identifying the common targets between the herb-relatedtargets and PE-related targets. After screening these common targets, a “drug-component-target network” and a protein-proteininteraction (PPI) network were constructed. Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia ofGenes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were conducted on the intersecting targets, and molecular docking verificationwas performed using AutoDockTools and PyMol software. Finally, 20 active components were screened from Astragali Radix, 7from Cinnamomi Ramulus, 13 from Paeoniae Radix Alba, 5 from Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens, and 29 from Jujubae Fructus, witha total of 983 therapeutic targets. Among these targets, 134 were associated with PE, and protein kinase B1 (AKT1), mitogenactivatedprotein kinase 1 (MAPK1), and transformation-related protein 53 (TP53) served as the core targets. The results of GOand KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the alleviation of PE by HGD is mainly related to pathways including immuneresponse, regulation of gene expression, atherosclerosis, and tumorigenesis. Molecular docking results showed that the keyactive components in HGD could bind to the core targets spontaneously and stably. This study revealed that HGD may alleviatesymptoms in PE patients by regulating signaling pathways, modulating platelet function to exert anticoagulant effects, andregulating the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, which provided a direction for subsequent experimental research.
基金supported by the Creation and Talent Introduction Base of Prevention and Treatment of Diabetes and Its Complications withTraditional Chinese Medicine(B20055).
文摘Objective:To investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of action of Panax notoginseng(Burk)F.H.Chen(P.notoginseng,San Qi)flowers in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)using network pharmacology,in vivo experiments,and RNA sequencing(RNA-seq).Methods:Network pharmacology analysis was performed to identify and correlate the drug targets of flower buds of P.notoginseng(PNF)with T2DM disease targets and to predict the key targets and pathways involved in the therapeutic effects of PNF in T2DM.In vivo experiments were conducted to assess the effects of PNF on glucose and lipid metabolism in mice with T2DM.RNA-seq was performed,and the results were integrated with network pharmacology data to assess the therapeutic mechanisms of PNF in T2DM.The results from transcriptomics and network pharmacology were validated using real-time polymerase chain reaction.Results:A total of 27 intersecting targets were identified by overlapping 35 drug targets with T2DM targets.Further topological analysis using the Centiscape 2.2 tool revealed five core targets,including signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3).Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)pathway analysis indicated that the JAK/STAT signaling pathway is a key mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of PNF in T2DM.In vivo experiments confirmed that PNF effectively regulates glycolipid metabolism in a mouse model of diabetes.KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of RNA-seq data highlighted the JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT pathway as a potential mechanism.PNF high-dose(PNFH)increased the gene expression levels of PIK3R1 and AKT2,decreased the expression of PCK1,JAK2,and STAT3,and showed a trend toward increasing INSR expression without reaching statistical significance.Conclusion:PNF improves glycolipid metabolism disorders in T2DM,potentially by modulating the JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
文摘1.Discipline origins In 1984,“analytical pharmacology”was firstly used in the paper entitled“The future of analytical pharmacologyda personal view”by Dr.J.S.Cridland,director of a clinical pharmacological laboratory at Department of Pharmacology,University of Cape Town.He proposed“Analytical pharmacology is at present usually a tool of clinical pharmacology”,which is mainly used for therapeutic drug monitoring,analysis of clinical pharmacokinetics,and toxicological screening to provide a basis for reasonable medication and clinical dose adjustment[1].In 1984,W.J.Black,Director of Wellcome Research Laboratories,was offered a personal Chair at King's College Hospital School of Medicine and Dentistry,part of King's College London.He chose“Analytical Pharmacology”as a title for the Chair[2].
基金funded by the State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources(Guangxi Normal University)(CMEMR2022-B11)the Natural Science Research of Jiangsu Higher education Institution of China(22KJB360018)Jiangsu Province University Student Innovation and Entrepreneurial Training Program(202311117019Z).
文摘Erigerontis Herba(EH),the dried whole plant of Erigeron breviscapus,is well-known for circulating blood,activating meridians to alleviate pain,expelling wind,and clearing away cold.It has been extensively utilized in southern China for the treatment of stroke hemiplegia,chest stuffiness and pains,rheumatic arthralgia,headache,and toothache.This review focuses on the botany,ethnopharmacology,phytochemistry,pharmacology and toxicity of EH and its related prescriptions to offer new insights for prospective research of EH.Relevant information about EH was retrieved from ancient records and books,PubMed,China National Knowledge Infrastructure,Chinese Pharmacopoeia,Web of Science,Doctoral and Master’s Theses,and various electronic databases.EH is a member of Compositae family and is mainly grown in southern China.Traditional Chinese medicine records that EH has the effects of circulating blood and removing blood stasis,expelling wind,and removing cold,as well as relieving rigidity of muscle and relieving pain.By now,nearly 200 ingredients have been characterized from EH,including flavonoids,caffeoyls,aromatic acids,coumarins,pentacyclic terpenoids,volatile oil and other compounds.EH extracts,EH related prescriptions(Dengzhan Xixin injection,Dengzhan Shengmai capsules,etc.)or compounds(scutellarin,scutellarein,etc.)possessed obvious therapeutic effects of ischemic stroke,cerebral hemorrhage,myocardial infarction,Alzheimer’s disease,diabetes and its complications,gastric cancer,bone,and joint degenerative diseases.Scutellarin,the major active compound of EH,has been used as a quality marker.And no obvious toxicity of EH has been reported.According to its traditional applications,ethnopharmacology,phytochemistry,pharmacology,and toxicity,EH was applied as a valuable herb for clinical application in food and medicine fields.While several compounds have been shown to possess diverse biological activities,the underlying mechanisms of their actions remain elusive.To fully exploit the medicinal potential of EH,further studies on understanding the effective material basis and mechanisms are warranted.
文摘The article concluded that network pharmacology provides new ideas and insights into the molecular mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)treatment of cancer.TCM is a new choice and hot spot in the field of cancer treatment.We have also previously published studies on TCM and network pharmacology.In this letter,we summarize the new paradigm of network pharmacology in cancer treatment mechanisms.
基金supported by the National Medical Products Administration Commissioned Research Project (No.20211440216)the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project (No.GZY-KJS-2024-03)+3 种基金the State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science Project (No.2023SKLDRS0104)the Basic Research Program Natural Science Fund-Frontier Leading Technology Basic Research Special Project of Jiangsu Province (No.BK20232014)the Programs Foundation for Leading Talents in National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of China“Qihuang scholars”Projectthe Tianjin Administration for Market Regulation Science and Technology Key Projects (No.2022-W35)。
文摘The research and development of new traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)drugs have progressively established a novel system founded on the integration of TCM theory,human experience,and clinical trials(termed the“Three Combinations”).However,considering TCM's distinctive features of“syndrome differentiation and treatment”and“multicomponent formulations and complex mechanisms”,current TCM drug development faces challenges such as insufficient understanding of the material basis and the overall mechanism of action and an incomplete evidence chain system.Moreover,significant obstacles persist in gathering human experience data,evaluating clinical efficacy,and controlling the quality of active ingredients,which impede the innovation process in TCM drug development.Network pharmacology,centered on the“network targets”theory,transcends the limitations of the conventional“single target”reductionist research model.It emphasizes the comprehensive effects of disease or syndrome biological networks as targets to elucidate the overall regulatory mechanism of TCM prescriptions.This approach aligns with the holistic perspective of TCM,offering a novel method consistent with TCM's holistic view for investigating the complex mechanisms of TCM and developing new TCM drugs.It is internationally recognized as a“next-generation drug research model”.To advance the research of new tools,methods,and standards for TCM evaluation and to overcome fundamental,critical,and cutting-edge technical challenges in TCM regulation,this consensus aims to explore the characteristics,progress,challenges,applicable pathways,and specific applications of network pharmacology as a new theory,method,and tool in TCM drug development.The goal is to enhance the quality of TCM drug research and development and accelerate the efficiency of developing new TCM products.
基金supported by the“Pioneer”and“Leading Goose”R&D Program of Zhejiang(No.2024C03106,X.F.)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82474160,X.S.)+2 种基金the Joint Funds of the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(No.LBZ24H270001,X.P.)the Major Joint Projects Supported by the National Administration of TCM and Zhejiang Province(No.GZY-ZI-KJ-23037,X.P.)the Ningbo Top Medical and Health Research Program(No.2022030309,X.P.)。
文摘Network pharmacology has gained widespread application in drug discovery,particularly in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)research,which is characterized by its“multi-component,multi-target,and multi-pathway”nature.Through the integration of network biology,TCM network pharmacology enables systematic evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and detailed elucidation of action mechanisms,establishing a novel research paradigm for TCM modernization.The rapid advancement of machine learning,particularly revolutionary deep learning methods,has substantially enhanced artificial intelligence(AI)technology,offering significant potential to advance TCM network pharmacology research.This paper describes the methodology of TCM network pharmacology,encompassing ingredient identification,network construction,network analysis,and experimental validation.Furthermore,it summarizes key strategies for constructing various networks and analyzing constructed networks using AI methods.Finally,it addresses challenges and future directions regarding cell-cell communication(CCC)-based network construction,analysis,and validation,providing valuable insights for TCM network pharmacology.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Project(2022YFC3400700)the City-School Cooperation Project of the Fuyang Science and Technology Special Fund undertaken by Fuyang Normal University(SXHZ2020007)+1 种基金the Basic Research Program of Shenzhen Municipal Government(JCYJ20200109114242138)the Special Commissioner for Rural Science and Technology of Guangdong Province(KTP20210345).
文摘Background Meat originating from the spent hen is an important source of poultry meat production;however,multiple factors cause the decline in the meat quality of spent hens.Chinese herbs have been widely used as medi-cine for a long time to prevent diseases and as nutrient supplements to improve the product quality.This experi-ment explored the effects of adding 1.0%Chinese herbal formula(CHF,including 0.30%Leonurus japonicus Houtt.,0.20%Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge.,0.25%Ligustrum lucidum Ait.,and 0.25%Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz.)for 120 d to the spent hens’diet through metabolomics,network pharmacology,and microbiome strategies.Results The results indicated that CHF supplementation improved the meat quality by reducing drip loss(P<0.05),b*value(P=0.058),and shear force(P=0.099)and increasing cooked meat percentage(P=0.054)and dry matter(P<0.05)of breast muscle.The addition of CHF improved the nutritional value of breast muscle by increasing(P<0.05)the content of C18:2n-6,n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA),total PUFA,PUFA-to-saturated fatty acids(SFA)ratio,and hypocholesterolemic-to-hypercholesterolemic ratio,and tending to increase serine content(P=0.069).The targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that the biosynthesis of SFA,linoleic acid metabolism,fatty acid degradation,fatty acid elongation,and fatty acid biosynthesis pathways were enriched by CHF supplementation.Furthermore,the network pharmacology analysis indicated that CHF was closely associated with oxidative stress and lipid metabo-lism.The CHF supplementation increased the glutathione peroxidase level(P<0.05)and upregulated gene expres-sion related to the Nrf2 pathway(including HO-1,P<0.05;Nrf2,P=0.098;CAT,P=0.060;GPX1,P=0.063;and SOD2,P=0.052)and lipid metabolism(including PPARγ,P<0.05;SREBP1,P=0.059;and CPT1A,P=0.058).Additionally,CHF supplementation increased Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidetes,Spirochaetes,and Synergistetes abundances(P<0.05),which may contribute to better meat quality.Conclusions Our results suggest that CHF supplementation improved the quality and nutritional value of meat,which will provide a theoretical basis for the utilization of CHF as a feed additive in spent hens’diets.
文摘Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)demonstrates distinctive advantages in disease prevention and treatment.However,analyzing its biological mechanisms through the modern medical research paradigm of“single drug,single target”presents significant challenges due to its holistic approach.Network pharmacology and its core theory of network targets connect drugs and diseases from a holistic and systematic perspective based on biological networks,overcoming the limitations of reductionist research models and showing considerable value in TCM research.Recent integration of network target computational and experimental methods with artificial intelligence(AI)and multi-modal multi-omics technologies has substantially enhanced network pharmacology methodology.The advancement in computational and experimental techniques provides complementary support for network target theory in decoding TCM principles.This review,centered on network targets,examines the progress of network target methods combined with AI in predicting disease molecular mechanisms and drug-target relationships,alongside the application of multi-modal multi-omics technologies in analyzing TCM formulae,syndromes,and toxicity.Looking forward,network target theory is expected to incorporate emerging technologies while developing novel approaches aligned with its unique characteristics,potentially leading to significant breakthroughs in TCM research and advancing scientific understanding and innovation in TCM.
基金Shanghai Clinical Research Center for Chronic Musculoskeletal Diseases (20MC1920600)Shanghai Key Clinical Specialty "Traditional Chinese Medicine Orthopaedic Traumatology"(shslczdzk03901)+3 种基金The Second Round of Construction Project of National TCM Academic School Inheritance Studio "Shi's Trauma Department"[Letter of the People's Education of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2019) No.62]Shanghai High-level Local Universities "Chronic Muscle and Bone Damage Research and Transformation" Innovation Team [No.3 of Shanghai Education Commission (2022)]Program for Shanghai High-Level Local University Innovation Team (SZY20220315)Shanghai Shenkang Hospital Development Center Clinical Three-year Action Plan (SHDC2020CR3090B)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To explore the potential molecular mechanism of Qigu capsule(芪骨胶囊,QGC) in the treatment of sarcopenia through network pharmacology and to verify it experimentally.METHODS:The active compounds of QGC and common targets between QGC and sarcopenia were screened from databases.Then the herbs-compounds-targets network,and protein-protein interaction(PPI) network was constructed.Gene ontology(GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed by R software.Next,we used a dexamethasone-induced sarcopenia mouse model to evaluate the anti-sarcopenic mechanism of QGC.RESULTS:A total of 57 common targets of QGC and sarcopenia were obtained.Based on the enrichment analysis of GO and KEGG,we took the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt) signaling pathway as a key target to explore the mechanism of QGC on sarcopenia.Animal experiments showed that QGC could increase muscle strength and inhibit muscle fiber atrophy.In the model group,the expression of muscle ring finger-1 and Atrogin-1 were increased,while myosin heavy chain was decreased,QGC treatment reversed these changes.Moreover,compared with the model group,the expressions of pPI3K,p-Akt,p-mammalian target of rapamycin and pForkhead box O3 in the QGC group were all upregulated.CONCLUSION:QGC exerts an anti-sarcopenic effect by activating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to regulate skeletal muscle protein metabolism.
