Identifying Molecular Mechanisms of Cinnamomum cassia in the Treatment of Osteoporosis Based on Network Pharmacology and Validations
Xianwen Sun, Jun FeiBackground
Osteoporosis is a common condition among the elderly, characterized by reduced bone density and an increased susceptibility to fractures. The efficacy of Cinnamomum cassia in treating osteoporosis is recognized, though its precise molecular mechanisms remain unclear.
Purpose
To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of C. cassia using network pharmacology, molecular docking technology (MDT), and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS).
Materials and Methods
Bioinformatics databases identified active compounds and disease targets. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. MDT and MDS validated the binding affinity between C. cassia’s active compounds and key targets.
Results
Ten active compounds of C. cassia were identified, modulating the PPAR, HIF-1, AMPK, and cAMP signaling pathways. Key genes include PPARG, PTGS2, PPARA, BDNF, and RXRA. Molecular docking and simulations confirmed high binding affinity between active compounds and targets, supporting their role in regulating bone metabolism.
Conclusion
This study highlights the multi-target mechanisms of C. cassia in treating osteoporosis, emphasizing its therapeutic potential through pathway-based modulation of key genes. These findings provide a basis for further research in modernizing traditional Chinese medicine for osteoporosis management.