Exploring the Potential Mechanism of "Yujin Powder" in Treating Canine Cholecystitis Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular

ObjectiveTo predict the core active ingredients, potential targets, and signaling pathways of "Yujin Powder" in treating canine cholecystitis using network pharmacology and molecular docking, and to explore its underlying mechanism.MethodsActive ingredients of "Yujin Powder" (including Curcuma, Coptis chinensis, Rheum palmatum, etc.) and their targets were retrieved from the TCMSP database. Disease targets related to canine cholecystitis were obtained from Genecards and OMIM databases. R software was used to identify drug-disease intersection targets and construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. GO functional and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed using the R package clusterProfiler. Molecular docking verification was carried out using AutoDock Vina.Results​A total of 60 active ingredients and 187 corresponding targets were identified for "Yujin Powder". There were 1070 disease-related targets for canine cholecystitis, resulting in 62 intersection targets. The PPI network identified core targets such as TNF, IL6, IL1B, EGFR, MMP9, and TP53. GO enrichment analysis revealed that the biological processes were primarily involved in cellular response to lipopolysaccharide and regulation of smooth muscle cell proliferation. KEGG pathway enrichment suggested close associations with cholecystitis-related pathways such as the IL-17 signaling pathway and AGE-RAGE signaling pathway. Molecular docking indicated that the core ingredient MOL000098 (quercetin) bound to the core target TP53 with a binding energy of -6.632 kcal/mol.ConclusionYujin Powder may exert therapeutic effects on canine cholecystitis through multiple active ingredients like quercetin, acting on core targets such as TP53, TNF, and IL6, and regulating multiple pathways including the IL-17 signaling pathway. This suggests roles in anti-inflammation, immune regulation, and protection of biliary smooth muscle. This study preliminarily reveals the multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway characteristics of Yujin Powder in treating canine cholecystitis, providing a theoretical basis for subsequent experimental validation and clinical application.