Mechanisms of Piper longum for treating gastric cancer based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

doi:10.19803/j.1672-8629.20220655

Abstract

Abstract: Objective To explore the mechanism of Piper longum for the treatment of gastric cancer via network pharmacology and molecular docking technology. Methods The components and active components of Piper longum were searched for in TCMSP. GeneCards database was used to search for targets and common genes related to gastric cancer. A PPI network diagram was drawn, and GO and KEGG enrichment analysis was performed respectively. AutoDock Tools1.5.6 software was used for molecular docking of core components and targets. MTT and flow cytometry were used to detect the effects of different concentrations of piperine on the inhibition and apoptosis of SGC-7901 cells. The expression levels of related proteins were detected by Western blotting. Results A total of 15 active components were identified. There were 15 common targets of Piper longum-gastric cancer. GO functional enrichment analysis was associated with 19 gene biological processes, 12 cell components and 4 molecular functions. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis mainly involved the TNF signaling pathway. Molecular docking results of piperine, sesamin and other core targets were good. The results of MTT assay and flow cytometry showed that compared with the control group, the inhibition rate of SGC-7901 cells in the piperine group was increased ( P < 0.01 ), so was the apoptosis rate ( P < 0.01 ). Western blotting results showed that compared with the control group; the expressions of TNF-α, Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 protein in SGC-7901 cells in the piperine group increased (P < 0.05). Conclusion Piper longum and piperine have multi-target and multi-pathway properties in the treatment of gastric cancer, which can provide reference for subsequent experimental research and clinical application.

Key words: gastric cancer, Piper longum, piperine, network pharmacology, molecular docking, MTT, flow cytometry, western blotting

CLC Number:

WANG Rumeng, GUO Ziqi, YANG Hongxin, YANG Yong. Mechanisms of Piper longum for treating gastric cancer based on network pharmacology and molecular docking[J]. Chinese Journal of Pharmacovigilance, 2023, 20(10): 1121-1128.

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