Exploring the Potential of Tamarillo (Cyphomandra betacea Cav) Compounds for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Network Pharmacology Study

Abstract

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), especially type 2 DM, has been on the increase with a percentage of 95% in Indonesia. Tamarillo (Chypomandra betacea Cav.) can restore adipokine regulation and reduce blood glucose levels which prevents insulin resistance in type 2 DM. Thus, this research aimed to explore the compounds and determine the molecular mechanism of Tamarillo on type 2 DM using a Network Pharmacology approach and compound exploration through a literature review. At the same time, the researchers determined the molecular mechanism using the Network Pharmacology approach: GeneCard, DisGeNET, STRING, Cytoscape, and KEGG database applications. The results showed that the multi-component compounds in Tamarillo had 150 out of 365 target proteins that work in biological processes and signaling pathways of type 2 DM, with 75 target proteins locked and interacting. Among the many molecules in Tamarillo, six bioactive components from the hydroxycinnamic acids group had activity on type 2 DM. These compounds affected biological processes in three types 2 DM signaling pathways: Adipocytokine, Insulin, and Glucagon signaling pathways. With the influence of hydroxycinnamic acid compounds on these three signaling pathways, Tamarillo had the potential to help lower blood glucose levels and prevent insulin resistance in type 2 DM patients. Therefore, Tamarillo fruit can be a safe and natural treatment alternative for patients with type 2 DM.