Network pharmacology-based elucidation of the regulatory mechanism of Solanum lyratum (Bai Ying) against psoriasis via the IL-17A/STAT3 axis: Molecular docking and HaCaT cell validation.

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis affects approximately 2% of the global population, with the IL-17A-STAT3 pathway mediating abnormal keratinocyte proliferation and inflammatory amplification. Solanum lyratum (Bai Ying) has long been used for skin disorders, and its steroidal alkaloids have anti-inflammatory potential, though the mechanisms remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the molecular basis and cytological efficacy of S. lyratum steroidal alkaloids in exerting anti-psoriatic effects via the IL-17A/STAT3 axis.

METHODS

HPLC-MS-QTOF, network pharmacology, molecular simulation, and a HaCaT cell model with STAT3-siRNA assays were employed.

RESULTS

Eighteen components were identified; steroidal alkaloids showed high affinity for STAT3 and IL17RA. S. lyratum (5-40 μg/mL) enhanced cell viability, inhibited p-STAT3 (IC50 = 14.30 μg/mL), and attenuated inflammatory responses and keratinocyte proliferation.

CONCLUSION

S. lyratum steroidal alkaloids exert dual-targeted blocking effects on the IL-17A/STAT3 axis, supporting it as a potential therapeutic candidate for psoriasis.