Network pharmacology analysis of the Huangqi-Gancao herb pair reveals quercetin as a therapeutics for allergic rhinitis via the RELA-regulated IFNG/IRF1 axis response. | LitMetric
Despite the complexity of allergic rhinitis (AR) pathogenesis, no FDA-approved drug has been developed to achieve optimal therapeutic effects. The present study explored the efficacy and mechanism of Huangqi (Hedysarum Multijugum Maxim)-Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma or licorice) herb pair in treating AR by network pharmacology and experimental approaches. The bioactive ingredients of Huangqi and Gancao were identified and used to predict the targets of these herbs in AR and generate the pharmacological network. Ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR mouse model was established to assess the anti-AR effect of the Huangqi decoction (HQD) prepared based on both herbs. We identified 90 active ingredients of the Huangqi-Gancao pair, targeting 69 AR-related genes. Quercetin (QUE) was identified as the hub ingredient of this pair, with 57 targets in AR. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and molecular docking revealed IL1B, TNF, STAT1, IL6, PTGS2, RELA, IL2, NFKBIA, IFNG, IL10, IL1A, IRF1, EGFR, and CXCL10 as important targets of QUE in AR treatment. Experimentally, QUE or HQD significantly alleviated the AR-induced histopathological changes, AR symptoms, and IgE level and counteracted AR-induced expression changes of IFNG, IRF1, RELA, and NFKBIA. These effects were promoted by the NF-kB inhibitor helenalin, indicating that HQD and QUE counteracted AR in mice by regulating the IFNG/IRF1 signaling via the NF-κB pathway in AR mice. These findings shed light on the efficacy of the constituents of Huangqi-Gancao pair, their potential targets, and the molecular mechanisms of HQD in treating AR, which could advance the development of tailored therapeutic interventions for this disorder.
Objectives: To explore the effect and the probable mechanisms of JLD in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) - associated cognitive impairment (TDACI).
Methods: The effect of JLD in combating TDACI was assessed in T2DM model mice by conducting Morris water maze (MWM) behaviour testing. Active components and their putative targets, as well as TDACI-related targets, were collected from public databases.
Background: Neuropathic pain (NeP) presents considerable challenges in terms of effective management and significantly impacts the quality of life for affected patients. The current treatment options for NeP are limited, highlighting the need for alternative therapeutic approaches. Dahuang Fuzi Decoction (DF), a formula from traditional Chinese medicine, has shown potential in relieving pain symptoms associated with various types of NeP.
Shenxian-Shengmai (SXSM) is a Chinese patent medicine used in the treatment of sick sinus syndrome (SSS). However, its active chemical compounds and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we researched the underlying mechanisms of SXSM in treating SSS.
The edible flower of Baroni, commonly known as "Huang Huacai" in China, has anti-depressant effects. However, targets and molecular mechanisms of Baroni edible flowers (HEF) in depression treatment are still unclear. The potential anti-depression targets in HEF were identified by the intersecting results from typical drug databases.
