Research on the mechanism of Carthamus tinctorius L. against skin fibrosis in systemic sclerosis based on serum pharmacochemistry, network pharmacology, and experimental validation

Key Points

• Skin fibrosis is reduced by Carthamus tinctorius in systemic sclerosis victims, indicating its therapeutic potential.
• The study identified key molecular pathways and biomarkers involved in this condition through network pharmacology analysis.
• Experimental validation confirmed the effectiveness of serum pharmacochemistry derived from Carthamus tinctorius.
• Findings suggest the need for further clinical evaluation of Carthamus tinctorius as a treatment option for skin fibrosis.