Targets of total glucosides of paeony in the treatment of Sjogren syndrome: A network pharmacology study

Abstract

Background: We aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of the total glucoside of peony (TGP) in treating Sjogren syndrome (SS) using the network pharmacology approach. Methods: The protein targets of TGP and SS were identified by database search. Then, the intersection of the two groups was studied. The drug-target network between TGP and the overlapping genes was constructed, visualized, and analyzed by Cytoscape software. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment were performed to analyze these genes. Finally, the predictions of potential targets were evaluated by docking study. Results: Forty-six overlapping genes were discovered. The results suggested that TGP used in the treatment of SS is associated with cellular tumor antigen p53, neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor type 1, and epidermal growth factor receptor, as well as their related 3372 protein networks, which regulate intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway, cellular response to oxidative stress, rhythmic process, and other processes. Molecular docking analysis proved that hydrogen bonding is the main form of interaction. Conclusion: Our research provided the protein targets affected by TGP in SS treatment. The key targets (caspase 3, vascular endothelial growth factor A, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, etc.), which involve 3372 proteins, are the multitarget mechanism of TGP in SS treatment.