Study on the Mechanism of Lonicerae japonicae Caulis in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis Based on Transcriptomics and Energy Metabolomics.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation, with current Western treatments focusing on symptom relief and disease progression control through antiinflammatory, analgesic, and immunosuppressive drugs. However, these therapies have significant side effects and limited long-term efficacy. Therefore, novel treatment options are urgently needed. Lonicerae japonicae Caulis (LJC), a traditional Chinese medicine, has alleviated RA symptoms such as joint pain and swelling. Despite its widespread use, the underlying mechanisms of its therapeutic effects remain poorly understood. This research aimed to uncover the mechanisms by which LJC intervenes in RA, using transcriptomics and energy metabolomics. RA was induced in rats via Type II collagen and incomplete adjuvant. LJC's effects were assessed through joint swelling, TNF-α levels, and histopathology. Mechanisms were analyzed using transcriptomics and metabolomics. The role of chlorogenic acid (CGA) was verified in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. LJC reduced joint swelling and TNF-α levels and inhibited synoviocyte proliferation and angiogenesis. Transcriptomics revealed LJC modulated RA pathways and inflammation. Metabolomics identified cis-aconitic acid as a key metabolite in energy metabolism. CGA was confirmed as the primary active component. LJC alleviates RA by inhibiting inflammation and modulating energy metabolism through multiple pathways.