Network pharmacology-based approach to investigate the mechanisms of Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang Powder in the treatment of malignant tumors

Objective:To systematically investigate the main active components,targets,target-related diseases and action mechanism of Yiyi Fuzi Baijiang powder(YFBP)of Zhang Zhongjing,a Chinese physician of Eastern Han Dynasty of China(3 century A.D.)using the method of network pharmacology.Methods:The active components of YFBP were identified from several databases(TCMSP,TCM Database@Taiwan and TCMID).The potential active compounds were screened based on oral bioavailability and drug-like index in the TCMSP database.DrugBank,TCMSP,and TCMID database searches were performed to predict target-related diseases.Biological functions and KEGG pathway outcomes of all potential targets were analyzed using the DAVID database.Results:A total of 24 active compounds of YFBP,133 related targets,and 305 potential related diseases were obtained.These results showed that YFBP may treat inflammation,pain,and cancer.The functional enrichment analysis indicated that YFBP probably exerts its therapeutic effects by regulating neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions,the TNF signaling pathway,and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.Conclusion:This study provides preliminary confirmation that YFBP has the great potentials to treat inflammation,pain,and tumors,which supports Zhang Zhongjing’s original intention to treat intestinal carbuncle with ancient prescription YFBP,but also provides a scientific basis for its treatment in the malignant tumors.