Exploring the molecular mechanism of Xuebifang in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy based on bioinformatics and network pharmacology

Abstract

Background: Xuebifang (XBF), a potent Chinese herbal formula, has been employed in managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Nevertheless, the precise mechanism of its action remains enigmatic.

Purpose: The primary objective of this investigation is to employ a bioinformatics-driven approach combined with network pharmacology to comprehensively explore the therapeutic mechanism of XBF in the context of DPN.

Study design and methods: The active chemicals and their respective targets of XBF were sourced from the TCMSP and BATMAN databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to DPN were obtained from the GEO database. The targets associated with DPN were compiled from the OMIM, GeneCards, and DrugBank databases. The analysis of GO, KEGG pathway enrichment, as well as immuno-infiltration analysis, was conducted using the R language. The investigation focused on the distribution of therapeutic targets of XBF within human organs or cells. Subsequently, molecular docking was employed to evaluate the interactions between potential targets and active compounds of XBF concerning the treatment of DPN.

Results: The study successfully identified a total of 122 active compounds and 272 targets associated with XBF. 5 core targets of XBF for DPN were discovered by building PPI network. According to GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, the mechanisms of XBF for DPN could be related to inflammation, immune regulation, and pivotal signalling pathways such as the TNF, TLR, CLR, and NOD-like receptor signalling pathways. These findings were further supported by immune infiltration analysis and localization of immune organs and cells. Moreover, the molecular docking simulations demonstrated a strong binding affinity between the active chemicals and the carefully selected targets.

Conclusion: In summary, this study proposes a novel treatment model for XBF in DPN, and it also offers a new perspective for exploring the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the clinical management of DPN.

Keywords: Xuebifang; bioinformatics; diabetic peripheral neuropathy; network pharmacology; traditional Chinese medicine.