• Herbal Formula Science
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• v.32 no.3
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• pp.247-261
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• 2024

Objectives : Zuojin Pill, recognized as an effective herbal remedy, has undergone investigation for its potential in alleviating symptoms like indigestion, vomiting, and abdominal distension. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of digestive function activation through network pharmacology, particularly focused on improving functional dyspepsia. Methods : The two components, Coptidis Rhizoma and Evodiae Fructus, constituting Zuojin Pill were analyzed based on broad information on chemical and pharmacological properties, confirming 40 active compounds and 115 digestive-related molecular targets. Concentration analysis revealed impacts on various pathways related to digestive functions. Results : According to network pharmacological analysis of Zuojin Pill, quercetin and beta-sitosterol were exhibited relatively numerous targets, suggesting their potential significance in the therapeutic activity of Zuojin Pill and by a Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network, JUN, RELA, MAPK1, HSP90AA1, TP53, TNF, AKT1, IL6, MAPK14, ESR1, FOS, MYC were identified. Also, berberine exhibited the highest contribution index (92.58%), indicating that this compound may be a major contributor to the digestive activity of Zuojin Pill. Additionally, functional interaction analysis by GeneMANIA indicated that targets of Zuojin Pill could functionally interact through various mechanisms, implying similarities in pharmacological roles. Conclusions : These findings contribute valuable insights into the digestive function activation mechanism and highlight the therapeutic potential of Zuojin Pill in improving functional dyspepsia.