Exploring the Molecular Mechanism of Qing Guang An Granule in Treating Glaucoma Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Abstract

Background. Qing Guang An Granule (QGAG), a Chinese patent medicine, has been used clinically to treat glaucoma for more than 20 years. Objective. To explore the possible mechanism of treatment of QGAG in glaucoma by using network pharmacology and molecular docking in this study. Methods. Active compounds and targets of each herb in QGAG were retrieved via the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). Glaucoma-related targets were acquired from OMIM and DisGeNET database. Key targets of QGAG against glaucoma were acquired by overlapping the above targets via the Venn diagram. Using the DAVID, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the key targets were performed. The docking process was performed using the AutoDock 4.2.6 and AutoDock Vina 1.1.2. Results. The 55 active compounds and 173 targets were obtained and constructed a compound-target network. The 20 key targets of QGAG in treating glaucoma were acquired, and these targets are involved in the apoptotic process, cellular response to hypoxia, negative regulation of cell growth, and ovarian follicle development. The main pathways are p53, HIF-1, PI3K-Akt, and neurotrophin signaling pathway. Conclusion. QGAG may exert a protective effect by acting on the optic nerve at a molecular and systemic level. This study can provide a certain basis for future researches on exploring the QGAG in treating glaucoma and provide new ideas for developing new drugs.

Exploring the Protective Effect and Mechanism of Buddlejae Flos on Sodium Selenite-Induced Cataract in Rats by Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Experimental Validation

“…However, applying network pharmacology in studying ophthalmic diseases and ophthalmic herbs is very rare. The results of network pharmacology confirm that Qing Guang An Granule regulates p53, HIF-1, PI3K-Akt, and neurotrophin signaling pathways to treat glaucoma, which is similar to our results [ 32 ]. VEGFA, AKT1, and IL-6 were recognized as core targets in the network pharmacology prediction study of Astragalus membranaceus in treating the diabetic retinopathy, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway role has also been highlighted [ 33 ].…”

Based on multiple machine learning to identify the ENO2 as diagnosis biomarkers of glaucoma

“…7-O-Methylisomucronulatol was key compound in the compound-target network of Qing Guang An Granule (QGAG) to the treatment of glaucoma [ 36 ]. Scutellarin was discovered as a substance that protects the nerves of the eyes and brain, which is a new neurotherapeutic agent for glaucoma treatment, it has been studied in mice, at present, [ 37 , 38 ]. Acetylsalicylic acid has complex effects on the changes of intraocular pressure, studies have demonstrated that single-use of acetylsalicylic acid cannot significantly reduce intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients, but long-term use will have an impact on intraocular pressure [ 39 , 40 ].…”

Qingguang'an-induced autophagy in TFs inhibits scar formation: A follow-up in vivo mechanistic investigation

“…)), Chi-shao-yao 10g ( Paeoniae Radix Rubra ; Paeonia lactiflora Pall ), Hong-hua 5g ( Carthami Flos ; Carthamus tinctorius L) and Di-long 10g ( Lumbricus ; Lumbricus terrestris ) to boost Qi, nourish Yin, activate blood and dredge meridians. 13 It was developed by the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, and has been widely used in clinical care for over 20 years. Long-term clinical observation showed it inhibited scarring with less complications than intraoperative application of (mitomycin C), a common antimetabolite used in GFS, 14 and researches supported it can obviously lower , reduce sub-conjunctival fibroblast proliferation as well as protect RGCs (retinal ganglion cells).…”