Elucidating the therapeutic mechanism of Cang Zhu and Huang Bai in rheumatoid arthritis: a comprehensive analysis integrating network pharmacology and GEO data

In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of Cang Zhu-Huang Bai (CZ-HB) against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and elucidated the associated mechanisms. The approach involved a systematic examination of the chemical ingredients of CZ-HB using TCMSP database. Subsequently, we predicted the targets corresponding to the active ingredients through the SwissTargetPrediction database. We constructed a comprehensive drug-ingredient-target network using Cytoscape (v 3.8.0), with the main ingredients of the drugs identified based on their degree values. We conducted a meticulous search across GEO, GeneCards, Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), and PharmGkb databases to identify target proteins associated with RA. The intersection of targets corresponding to the drugs' active ingredients and those associated with RA provided crucial insights. Functional analysis, including GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses, was performed on the intersecting targets using R (v 4.2.2). Additionally, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the intersecting targets was constructed using the String platform. The resulting drug-ingredient-target-disease topology network was visualized using Cytoscape (v 3.8.0), and the Cytohubba plugin facilitated the identification of hub genes. The study revealed 35 active ingredients of CZ-HB and their corresponding 673 targets. We identified 14 major active ingredients crucial to the drug’s effects by focusing on the degree values. Furthermore, our investigation uncovered 784 targets associated with RA. Through the intersection of drug and disease targets, we pinpointed 34 active ingredients of CZ-HB capable of acting on 126 targets implicated in RA. The topological network analysis of the intersected genes identified five hub genes. The binding affinity of these hub genes to the 14 primary active ingredients of the drug was confirmed through molecular docking. The enrichment results of the intersecting genes suggested that CZ-HB exerted its anti-RA effects through a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach.

Exploring the evolution of animal models for gout and hyperuricemia:A bibliometric analysis

This study aimed to systematically analyze the research status and trends in animal models for gout and hyperuricemia(HUA)through a bibliometric approach.We retrieved relevant literature on animal models of gout and HUA from the Web of Science(WOS)database.Utilizing analysis software such as Citespace and VOSviewer,we conducted a comprehensive examination of annual publication trends,contributing countries,institutions,and authors.Our analysis revealed a steady increase in the number of publications in this field.China emerged as the leading country,with 113 publications.Zhen Liu was identified as the most influential author,while Nanjing University stood out as the most influential institution.Keyword analysis elucidated current focal points,uncovering evolving patterns and emerging hotspots within the research landscape.Current research predominantly centered on understanding the pathogenesis and exploring new treatment modalities for gout and HUA.This study offered valuable insights into research trends and hotspots related to animal models for gout and HUA,enabling researchers to stay informed about the latest developments in this field.