Study of the curative effect of Zhang’s Xibi formula and its underlying mechanism involving inhibition of inflammatory responses and delay of knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

Abstract Objective To verify the clinical efficacy of Zhang’s Xibi formula (ZSXBF) and explain the mechanism underlying its therapeutic effect. Methods Preliminary elucidation of the clinical efficacy of ZSXBF in treating KOA in self-control studies, exploration of its mechanism of action with network pharmacology methods, and validation in animal experiments. Results In clinical studies, ZSXBF administration effectively improved patient quality of life and reduce pain. Network pharmacology was used to explore the possible mechanisms underlying its treatment effect, and after verification in clinical experience and animal experiments, it was found that ZSXBF regulated the expression of immune-related proteins such as IL-17, ERK1, and TP53 in mouse knee joints. Conclusion ZSXBF, which is a traditional Chinese medicine compound that is used to clear heat and detoxify, can effectively improve the clinical symptoms of KOA patients, and its underlying mechanism includes the regulation of human immune-related proteins.

Keywords

• Knee osteoarthritis
• Zhang’s Xibi formula
• Immunity
• Network pharmacology