PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of on colorectal cancer, as well as the mechanisms involved.

METHODS

The active compounds of and the associated genes in colorectal cancer were sourced from publicly available databases. Targets associated with colorectal cancer were identified by searching the GeneCards and OMIM databases. Subsequently, the Cytoscape 3.6.0 software was employed to create a regulatory network that illustrates the relationships among active ingredients, colorectal cancer, and their corresponding targets. The String database was utilized to generate a PPI network. Molecular docking studies, conducted with AutoDock Vina, verified the binding capabilities of these active components to core targets. The findings from network pharmacology analysis were corroborated through in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

In this study, we identified 39 active components derived from that are predicted to target 544 genes associated with colorectal cancer through network pharmacology. Through a combined analysis of network pharmacology, we isolated three key targets: SRC, IL6, and INS. Molecular docking results convincingly demonstrated 's strong binding affinity to these targets. Additionally, in vitro experiments confirmed that effectively inhibited the progression of colorectal cancer via regulating the INS/SRC/IL6 pathway.

CONCLUSION

emerges as a compelling herbal intervention for colorectal cancer. This study lays the foundation for potential future clinical trials assessing the efficacy of in the management of colorectal cancer.