Prediction and analysis of components and functions of <i>Ixeris chinensis</i> based on network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>It is reported that the <i>Ixeris chinensis</i> has high medicinal value, but there are few reports about its potential molecular mechanism. We used a network pharmacology approach to predict the active ingredients, targets of action and possible interventions in diseases of <i>Ixeris chinensis</i>.<h4>Methods</h4>We employed various databases and software to predict the active ingredients, target genes, protein interactions, signaling pathways, network diagrams, and molecular docking of <i>Ixeris chinensis</i>. Simultaneously, we searched multiple Chinese and English databases and conducted meta-analyses of five randomized controlled trials.<h4>Results</h4>The analysis results revealed 12 effective components, including apigenin <i>β</i>-sitosterol, baicalin, baicalein, and luteolin; and selected 40 key targets, including AKT1, TNF, EGFR, ESR1, SRC, among others. GO analysis generated 225 biological processes, 39 cellular components, and 65 molecular functions; KEGG analysis revealed 103 signaling pathways. Molecular docking results indicated that the main active components of <i>Ixeris chinensis</i> can bind well with key targets. Five randomized controlled trials were included. Meta-analysis showed that Ixeris extract can effectively reduce animal blood lipid levels.<h4>Conclusion</h4>This study revealed the main active ingredients and key targets of <i>Ixeris chinensis</i>, analyzed the signaling pathways of potential targets, conducted disease prediction, and performed molecular docking prediction, providing a basis for research on the pathways of Ixeris treatment for related diseases and subsequent new drug development.