Elucidating the Action Mechanism of Shenling Baizhu Powder in the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis Based on Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the therapeutic mechanisms of Shenling Baizhu Powder (SLBZ) in ulcerative colitis (UC) using network pharmacology and experimental validation, assessing its potential as an alternative therapy.

METHODS

Active constituents and targets of SLBZ were identified using TCMSP, DrugBank, and CTD. A UC mouse model was induced with DSS and treated with SLBZ for 14 days. Histopathological changes and serum levels of IL-4, TNF-α, and HIF-1α were measured.

RESULTS

SLBZ contained 408 active ingredients with 2118 targets, 610 of which were associated with UC. Key components included quercetin, betulin, catharanthine, and glyasperin B. Core targets were TP53, AKT1, JUN, and HSP90AA1. SLBZ modulated PI3K/Akt, JAK2/STAT3, and TNF pathways. Histological analysis showed SLBZ alleviated DSS-induced colonic tissue injury, reduced TNF-α and STAT3, and upregulated IL-4.

CONCLUSION

SLBZ targets key proteins and pathways in UC, suggesting its potential as a multitargeted therapeutic agent. Further studies are needed to validate its efficacy and safety.