Exploring the Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-NET Properties of Zidian Zhenxiao Granule in IgA Vasculitis: A Network Pharmacology and Proteomic Study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV) is the most common systemic vasculitis of childhood. Zidian Zhenxiao granule (ZDZX), a 9-herb formula optimized through decades of clinical practice, uniquely integrates anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. However, its mechanisms targeting neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and thromboinflammatory pathways in combating IgAV remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the main component of ZDZX and its underlying mechanism in IgAV treatment.

METHODS

Combining UHPLC-QE-MS/MS, network pharmacology, 4D-FastDIA proteomics, and a gliadin-induced IgAV murine model, we systematically deciphered ZDZX's renoprotective and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

RESULTS

19 key components were identified in ZDZX, targeting 46 IgAV-associated proteins, predominantly enriched in TNF and IL-17 signaling pathways. In vivo, ZDZX significantly reduced levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine ( <0.01), attenuated renal IgA/C3 deposition, and improved hematological parameters. Proteomics revealed 27 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) (FDR <0.05), including MPO, IL-17, MMP2, C3 and COL1A1, implicating coagulation cascades and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. Additionally, ZDZX downregulated renal IL-6, TNF-α, and citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3) ( <0.01), confirming NET inhibition, consistent with recent IgAV-NET mechanistic studies.

CONCLUSION

By synergizing network pharmacology, 4D-FastDIA proteomics, and experimental validation, this study pioneers the demonstration that ZDZX alleviates IgAV via multi-target inhibition of NET-driven thromboinflammation.